Why You’ll Love Cozy Instant Pot Turkey Lentil Soup Recipe

This recipe is everything you want in a homemade soup: it’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. Using the Instant Pot cuts down cooking time dramatically without sacrificing the rich, slow-cooked taste. It’s a great way to use up leftover turkey, and the addition of lentils provides fiber, protein, and staying power. You’ll also appreciate how adaptable it is—swap out veggies, herbs, or protein based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
carrots, diced
celery stalks, sliced
large onion, chopped
fresh garlic cloves, minced
dried parsley
dried rosemary
dried thyme
black pepper
salt
chicken or turkey broth
dry lentils (green or brown)
shredded turkey (leftover or cooked)
fresh kale
lemon juice
bay leaf

Directions

Set the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add olive oil.
Once hot, add the carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add the broth, lentils, shredded turkey, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 12–15 minutes.
Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Stir in the kale and lemon juice. Let sit for a few minutes until the kale wilts.
Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. The total cooking time, including prep, sautéing, pressure build-up, cooking, and natural release, is around 45 to 55 minutes.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey and use vegetable broth. Add chickpeas or white beans for protein.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño while sautéing the vegetables.
Extra Vegetables: Try adding diced sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Different Greens: Substitute kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens.
Alternative Herbs: Use Italian seasoning if you don’t have dried parsley, rosemary, and thyme separately.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. You can also microwave individual portions with a splash of broth or water to refresh the texture. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook in the Instant Pot?

It takes about 12–15 minutes under high pressure, plus extra time for pressure build-up and natural release, totaling around 45–55 minutes from start to finish.

Can I use red lentils instead?

Red lentils cook faster and tend to break down more, making the soup thicker. If you use red lentils, reduce the cooking time slightly.

What can I use instead of turkey?

Cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even ground turkey are great alternatives. For a vegetarian version, use beans or tofu.

Do I need to soak the lentils first?

No soaking is required. Just rinse them under cold water before adding to the pot.

Can I cook this soup on the stovetop instead?

Yes, follow the same steps in a large soup pot. Simmer for 30–40 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Will the kale get too mushy?

No, adding the kale after pressure cooking keeps it vibrant and slightly crisp-tender.

What broth works best?

Turkey or chicken broth adds the most depth, but vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Freeze cooled soup in portions for easy future meals.

Can I double the recipe?

You can double it if your Instant Pot is large enough—usually 8 quarts or more. Be careful not to exceed the max fill line.

Conclusion

Cozy Instant Pot Turkey Lentil Soup is a delicious, nutrient-packed meal perfect for any time of year, but especially comforting during colder months. It’s easy to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and offers the satisfaction of a warm homemade dish without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers or meal prep for the week, this soup is sure to become a household favorite.