Turkey Stew is the kind of comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Hearty, nourishing, and full of familiar flavors, it is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or using up leftover turkey in a delicious and thoughtful way. This stew transforms simple ingredients into a rich, slow simmered meal that brings everyone to the table.
The base of a good Turkey Stew starts with gently sautéed onions, carrots, and celery. These classic vegetables build a flavorful foundation and release natural sweetness as they cook. Garlic follows, adding depth and warmth, while a sprinkle of herbs like thyme, bay leaf, or rosemary gives the stew its comforting aroma. Once the vegetables soften, chunks of turkey are added, soaking up all those savory flavors.
Broth is what brings everything together. A good quality chicken or turkey stock creates a rich, soothing base that allows the ingredients to shine. Potatoes are a popular addition, making the stew more filling and giving it that satisfying, home cooked feel. Some versions also include parsnips, peas, or green beans for extra texture and color. As the stew simmers, the flavors slowly meld, becoming deeper and more rounded with time.
One of the reasons Turkey Stew is so loved is its flexibility. It works just as well with freshly cooked turkey as it does with leftovers from a holiday meal. You can keep it light and brothy, or thicken it slightly with a spoon of flour or mashed potatoes for a more velvety texture. A splash of cream at the end adds richness, while a squeeze of lemon or a bit of chopped parsley brightens the final dish.
Turkey Stew is best served hot, ideally with crusty bread on the side to soak up every last spoonful. It is a complete meal on its own, but also pairs nicely with a simple arugula green salad for balance. The leftovers are just as good, if not better, the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.
Simple, satisfying, and deeply comforting, Turkey Stew is a recipe that deserves a regular place in your kitchen, especially when you crave something wholesome and familiar.
Ingredients
- 1 pound turkey breast cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 cup carrots sliced
- 1 cup celery sliced
- 1 cup onions diced
- 3 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 cup potatoes diced
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add turkey cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove turkey from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chicken broth, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the turkey back to the pot and continue simmering for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Turkey not good for stew, should’ve made beef. Not my thing.
I think turkey can be great in stew! Have you tried it with different spices?
Nah, turkey is fine for stew! Not everyone likes beef. Just gotta cook it right!
This stew was amazing! The whole family loved it. Will definitely make it again!
So glad your family loved it! This stew really is a keeper. I’m planning to try it this weekend!
Very good and easy. I added some peas too. Yum!
Peas sound like a great addition! I’ll have to try that next time.
I was skeptical about using turkey instead of beef, but this turned out great. Nice and hearty!
What can I use instead of thyme? I ain’t got none and don’t wanna buy! Help!
Too watery for me. I prefer a stew with thicker broth, but I guess it tasted okay.
Yea, but I actually think watery stews can be nice. They soak the bread better!
😊
I get what you mean! A thick stew is much more filling. Maybe try adding some cornstarch next time to thicken it up?