Creamy & Comforting Turkey Potato Chowder: A Delicious Recipe

Turkey potato chowder is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or a hearty lunch. This creamy and flavorful soup combines tender turkey, hearty potatoes, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, satisfying broth. It’s an excellent way to use leftover Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey, or you can easily cook up some turkey specifically for this dish. This recipe is easy to follow, adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of turkey potato chowder!

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Comforting and Hearty:** This chowder is the definition of comfort food. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it incredibly satisfying.
* **Perfect for Leftovers:** Transform leftover turkey into a delicious and new meal. No more turkey sandwiches for days!
* **Easy to Customize:** Adapt the recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or cheeses.
* **One-Pot Meal:** This recipe is primarily cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Make a big batch and freeze individual portions for easy weeknight meals.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful turkey potato chowder:

* **Turkey:** Cooked turkey, shredded or diced. About 3-4 cups. Leftover roasted turkey is ideal, but you can also use smoked turkey or ground turkey.
* **Potatoes:** Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well. Peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes. Yukon gold potatoes tend to hold their shape better, while russet potatoes will contribute more starch to the chowder, thickening it.
* **Onion:** Yellow or white onion, diced. The base of flavor for the chowder.
* **Celery:** Diced. Adds a subtle savory note.
* **Carrots:** Diced. Adds sweetness and color.
* **Garlic:** Minced. For that essential garlicky flavor.
* **Butter:** Unsalted butter. Used for sautéing the vegetables and creating a rich base.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** Used to thicken the chowder. You can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch (mixed with a little cold water).
* **Chicken Broth:** Adds flavor and liquid to the chowder. You can also use turkey broth if you have it available.
* **Heavy Cream:** Adds richness and creaminess. You can substitute with half-and-half for a slightly lighter version, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
* **Milk:** Whole milk or 2% milk. Contributes to the creamy texture.
* **Bay Leaf:** Adds a subtle aromatic flavor. Remember to remove it before serving.
* **Dried Thyme:** Adds an earthy, herbaceous flavor.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Essential for seasoning the chowder.
* **Optional Garnishes:** Chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, oyster crackers.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect turkey potato chowder:

**Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables**

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should be translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 2: Create the Roux**

1. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the chowder. Make sure the flour is fully incorporated and there are no lumps.

**Step 3: Add the Broth and Potatoes**

1. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Ensure the flour is fully dissolved into the broth.
2. Add the diced potatoes and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

**Step 4: Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender**

1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.

**Step 5: Add the Turkey and Cream**

1. Remove the bay leaf from the pot.
2. Stir in the shredded or diced turkey, heavy cream, and milk. Heat through gently, being careful not to boil. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle.
3. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

**Step 6: Simmer and Serve**

1. Simmer the chowder for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, or crumbled bacon, if desired. Oyster crackers are also a classic accompaniment.

## Tips for the Best Turkey Potato Chowder

* **Don’t Overcook the Potatoes:** Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and can make the chowder too thick. Cook them until they are just tender.
* **Use High-Quality Broth:** The quality of your chicken or turkey broth will significantly impact the flavor of the chowder. Use a good-quality store-bought broth or homemade broth for the best results.
* **Adjust the Consistency:** If the chowder is too thick, add more milk or broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
* **Don’t Boil the Cream:** Boiling the cream can cause it to curdle, so heat it gently and don’t let the chowder come to a full boil after adding the cream.
* **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the chowder frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt and pepper are crucial for bringing out the flavors.
* **Use a Dutch Oven:** A Dutch oven is ideal for making chowder because it distributes heat evenly and helps prevent scorching. However, a large, heavy-bottomed pot will also work.
* **Consider an Immersion Blender:** For a creamier, smoother chowder, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can make it too thick.

## Variations and Substitutions

Here are some ideas for customizing your turkey potato chowder:

* **Spicy Chowder:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
* **Cheesy Chowder:** Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or pepper jack cheese for an extra cheesy flavor.
* **Smoked Turkey Chowder:** Use smoked turkey for a smoky, savory flavor.
* **Vegetarian Chowder:** Omit the turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like corn, green beans, or peas.
* **Dairy-Free Chowder:** Substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or other non-dairy milk alternatives.
* **Gluten-Free Chowder:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the chowder.
* **Add Bacon:** Cook bacon until crispy, crumble it, and add it to the chowder for a smoky, salty flavor. Reserve some for garnish.
* **Add Corn:** Add a cup of frozen or fresh corn kernels for a touch of sweetness.
* **Add Green Beans:** Add a cup of chopped green beans for added texture and nutrition.
* **Top with Croutons:** Crispy croutons add a delightful crunch to the creamy chowder.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano to change the flavor profile.

## Serving Suggestions

Turkey potato chowder is a complete meal in itself, but here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

* **Serve with Crusty Bread:** A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy chowder.
* **Serve with a Side Salad:** A light and refreshing side salad complements the richness of the chowder.
* **Serve with Oyster Crackers:** Oyster crackers are a classic accompaniment to chowder.
* **Top with Fresh Herbs:** Chopped fresh parsley, chives, or dill add a burst of freshness.
* **Add a Dollop of Sour Cream:** A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy and creamy element.

## Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

* **Make-Ahead:** You can prepare the chowder ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits.
* **Storage:** Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
* **Freezing:** Turkey potato chowder can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing.

## Recipe Card

**Turkey Potato Chowder**

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 35 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 3-4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
* 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 2 stalks celery, diced
* 2 carrots, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 6 cups chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 cup milk
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, oyster crackers

**Instructions:**

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the potatoes and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the turkey, heavy cream, and milk. Heat through gently.
6. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, cheese, or bacon, if desired.

Enjoy this heartwarming and delicious turkey potato chowder! It’s the perfect way to use leftover turkey and create a comforting meal for your family and friends.

## Nutrition Information (Estimated)

*Note: The nutrition information below is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* **Calories:** Approximately 350-450 per serving
* **Fat:** 20-30g
* **Saturated Fat:** 12-18g
* **Cholesterol:** 100-150mg
* **Sodium:** 500-700mg
* **Carbohydrates:** 25-35g
* **Fiber:** 3-5g
* **Sugar:** 5-8g
* **Protein:** 20-25g

This hearty turkey potato chowder is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re using leftover turkey from a holiday feast or simply craving a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy!