• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Cast Iron Keto
  • Home
  • Work With Us
  • Contact
  • Web Stories
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipes
  • Cookbook
  • About us
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » One-Pot Leftover Turkey Soup (keto + low carb) 🥣

    One-Pot Leftover Turkey Soup (keto + low carb) 🥣

    Published: Nov 27, 2019 · Updated: Aug 16, 2023 by Cast Iron Keto · 16 Comments

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Got some leftover turkey meat? And don't know what to do with it? No worries, we've got the perfect solution for you! Try our Keto Turkey Soup, the ultimate one-pot wonder! It's a delicious mix between White Chicken Chili and our famous Keto Queso Soup, so you KNOW it’s delicious.  Let's get cooking and make the most of that leftover turkey!

    Bowl of Keto Leftover Turkey Soup Topped with Avocado, Sour Cream, and sliced Jalapeno
    Jump to:
    • Preparation and cooking overview
    • Chef's note
    • 🥣 Ingredients for this keto turkey soup recipe
    • Ingredient substitutions
    • Additional ingredients
    • Cooking tools required
    • Tool substitutes list
    • How to make Keto Turkey Soup: step-by-step guide
    • Cooking methods
    • Preparation steps
    • Cooking instructions
    • How to make keto turkey soup in an instant pot or slow cooker?
    • Instant pot
    • Slow cooker
    • What to serve with keto turkey soup?
    • How to make it healthier?
    • Time-saving tips
    • What can I prepare ahead of time?
    • Storage and reheating instructions
    • Recipe wrap-up and conclusion
    • Frequently asked questions
    • 📖 Recipe

    Preparation and cooking overview

    Sauté bell peppers, jalapeños, garlic, and onions in avocado oil. Then add turkey stock and green chilies and simmer for 5 minutes. After that, whisk in the turkey, cream cheese, heavy cream, and lime juice until it's nice and creamy. This simple and delicious leftover turkey soup recipe will be on your table in under 20 minutes!

    Chef's note

    Toss in some crushed pork rinds just before serving for a satisfying crunch. If you're all about that cheese life, generously sprinkle shredded cheddar on your bowl – watch it melt into creamy perfection. And to freshen things up, bring in diced tomatoes or a dollop of guacamole for a burst of flavor. Let your creativity shine with these customizable choices!

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 20 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 6 Servings

    🥣 Ingredients for this keto turkey soup recipe

    Let's make this low carb soup with the following simple ingredients!

    • 1 pound leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
    • ¼ cup avocado oil
    • ½ medium yellow onion, diced
    • 1 large bell pepper, diced
    • 2 jalapenos, minced
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt
    • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
    • 1 (17-ounce) can of diced green chiles
    • 4 cups turkey broth
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
    • 4 ounces of cream cheese
    • 1 cup heavy cream

    Toppings

    • 1 avocado, thinly sliced
    • ¼ cup sour cream
    • 1 jalapeno, thinly sliced
    • 1 lime, quartered
    • ¼ cup minced cilantro

    Ingredient substitutions

    • Bell pepper: Use other low-carb veggies like zucchini, cauliflower, or broccoli.
    • Jalapenos: Use milder chili peppers like poblano or Anaheim if you prefer less heat.
    • Heavy cream: Instead of heavy cream, use coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk to keep it dairy-free and keto-friendly.
    • Turkey broth: Use vegetable and chicken broths – they are fantastic choices for low-carb turkey soup.

    Additional ingredients

    The best thing about keto soup recipes is you can customize them as you want! Adding some optional ingredients changes the recipe's flavor profile, so let's dig into some keto-friendly ingredients!

    • Spinach or kale: Toss in leafy greens for extra nutrients and color. They'll wilt beautifully into the soup.
    • Mushrooms: You can add sliced mushrooms that complement the turkey with an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
    • Bacon: Add crispy chopped bacon as a garnish for an extra savory kick.
    • Cheddar or pepper jack cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the soup for a delightful cheesy touch.

    Cooking tools required

    To make this leftover turkey soup recipe, you will need the following tools:

    • 5-quart cast-iron Dutch oven
    • Cutting board
    • Knife
    • Measuring cups and spoons
    • Wooden spoon or spatula
    • Whisk

    Tool substitutes list

    • 5-quart cast-iron Dutch oven: Use a regular large soup pot or any large, sturdy pot with a lid if you don't have a 5-quart cast-iron Dutch oven.

    How to make Keto Turkey Soup: step-by-step guide

    Cooking methods

    • Sautéing
    • Simmering

    Preparation steps

    1. Gather and measure all the ingredients.
    2. Shred and chop leftover turkey, or cook and prepare the turkey beforehand.
    3. Wash the vegetables and let them dry.
    4. Dice, chop and slice the veggies as recommended.
    5. Open the can of diced green chiles.
    6. Squeeze fresh lime juice and set it aside.

    Cooking instructions

    1. Heat the oil over medium heat in a 5-quart cast-iron Dutch oven.
    2. Once hot, add in the bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and garlic. Saute for 5 minutes until starting to soften.
    3. Add in the spices and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    4. Pour in the canned green chiles, lime juice, and turkey broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.
    5. Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes and whisk to smooth out any lumps.
    6. Add the turkey, heat for another minute or two, then divide the scrumptious soup between bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
    Glass bowl filled with a mixture of raw vegetables
    White dutch oven with sauteed veggies
    Turkey stock being poured into a dutch oven
    Sliced Turkey breast on a cutting board
    Glass bowl filled with a mixture of raw vegetables
    White dutch oven with sauteed veggies
    Turkey stock being poured into a dutch oven
    Sliced Turkey breast on a cutting board

    How to make keto turkey soup in an instant pot or slow cooker?

    Instant pot

    1. Start with sautéing as written.
    2. Add the remaining ingredients, and place the lid on the Instant Pot.
    3. Cancel the sauté function, and choose manual high pressure for 6 minutes.
    4. After 6 minutes, perform a manual release.
    5. Whisk to smooth out cream cheese lumps.

    Slow cooker

    1. Begin by sautéing vegetables.
    2. Add vegetables and remaining ingredients to the slow cooker.
    3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, and serve hot!

    Chef's pro tip

    Be careful not to overheat the cream cheese, which can curdle and affect the soup's texture. To prevent this, gently simmer the soup after adding the cream cheese, whisking continuously until it's smooth and creamy.

    What to serve with keto turkey soup?

    • Bacon-wrapped asparagus: A savory and crispy addition that complements the creamy soup with a touch of smokiness.
    • Cucumber salad: Refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing for a light and cooling accompaniment.
    • Keto Parmesan Crisps: Serve cheesy, crunchy crisps for an irresistible cheesy element alongside the soup.
    • Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with keto-friendly stuffing for a colorful and delicious side dish.

    How to make it healthier?

    • Lower sodium option: Opt for low-sodium turkey broth or make your broth at home using fresh turkey or chicken with minimal salt.
    • Lighter dairy alternatives: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light coconut milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the overall fat while maintaining a creamy texture.
    • Load up on veggies: Add low-carb vegetables like spinach, kale, or broccoli to boost the nutritional profile of the soup.
    • Homemade taco seasoning: Make your taco seasoning using a combination of herbs and spices, which allows you to control the sodium and avoid any added fillers or preservatives.

    Time-saving tips

    • Batch cooking: Cook a larger batch of the soup and freeze the leftovers in individual portions for quick and easy meals later.

    What can I prepare ahead of time?

    • Shred or chop the turkey beforehand and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
    • Chop, mince, and slice the vegetables needed for this recipe, then store them in airtight containers or resealable bags until ready to cook.
    leftover turkey soup in a black bowl

    Storage and reheating instructions

    Storage tips

    Store leftover soup and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. For extended storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for 2-3 months. We like to freeze soup in stasher bags or mason jars!

    Reheating best practices

    • Microwave: Place the desired amount of soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
    • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and transfer the soup to an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for 20-25 minutes until warm.
    • Stove: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's steaming hot.

    Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

    With the recipe at your fingertips, it's your moment to savor a hearty bowl of Keto Turkey Soup. Unleash your inner kitchen rockstar and whip up this creamy, spicy, comforting dish that'll make everyone ask for seconds!

    A hot soup makes everyone happy! Leave a comment if you loved this recipe, and don't forget to share a picture of your creation on our Instagram and Facebook!

    Frequently asked questions

    Yes, turkey is keto-friendly! It's a lean protein source with minimal carbs, making it an excellent choice for a low-carb and high-fat ketogenic diet.

    If you have extra soup, store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    Sure thing! Customize the heat just the way you like it. Lower the spice by skipping the jalapeños for a milder flavor that still hits the spot.

    Absolutely! Double the ingredients to make a larger batch to serve a crowd or have extra leftovers for later. It's a perfect meal prep recipe!

    It's as simple as using plant-based cream cheese (we love Tofutti or KiteHill) and plain unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream.

    📖 Recipe

    Bowl of Keto Leftover Turkey Soup Topped with Avocado, Sour Cream, and sliced Jalapeno

    One-Pot Leftover Turkey Soup

    This One-Pot Leftover Turkey Soup is a great way to use up leftover turkey! It's low-carb and ready in under 20 minutes!
    4.71 from 44 votes
    Print Rate Pin Recipe
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: keto, keto soup, leftover turkey, soup, turkey soup
    Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 20 minutes minutes
    Servings: 6
    Calories: 519kcal

    Ingredients

    • 1 pound leftover turkey shredded or chopped
    • ¼ cup avocado oil
    • ½ medium yellow onion diced
    • 1 large bell pepper diced
    • 2 jalapenos minced
    • 3 cloves garlic minced
    • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt
    • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
    • 1 7-ounce can diced green chiles
    • 4 cups turkey broth
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
    • 4 ounces cream cheese
    • 1 cup heavy cream

    Toppings

    • 1 avocado thinly sliced
    • ¼ cup sour cream
    • 1 jalapeno thinly sliced
    • 1 lime quartered
    • ¼ cup minced cilantro
    US Customary - Metric

    Instructions

    Stovetop

    • Heat the oil over medium heat in a 5-quart cast-iron Dutch oven.
    • Once hot, add in the bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and garlic. Saute for 5 minutes until starting to soften.
    • Add in the spices and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Pour in the canned green chiles, lime juice, and turkey broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.
    • Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes and whisk to smooth out any lumps.
    • Add the turkey, heat for another minute or two, then divide the scrumptious soup between bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.

    Instant pot

    • Start with sautéing as written.
    • Add the remaining ingredients, and place the lid on the Instant Pot.
    • Cancel the sauté function, and choose manual high pressure for 6 minutes.
    • After 6 minutes, perform a manual release.
    • Whisk to smooth out cream cheese lumps.

    Slow cooker

    • Begin by sautéing vegetables.
    • Add vegetables and remaining ingredients to the slow cooker.
    • Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, and serve hot!

    Nutrition

    Nutrition Facts
    One-Pot Leftover Turkey Soup
    Amount Per Serving
    Calories 519 Calories from Fat 382
    % Daily Value*
    Fat 42.4g65%
    Saturated Fat 17.2g108%
    Carbohydrates 7.2g2%
    Fiber 3.7g15%
    Sugar 4.5g5%
    Protein 27.4g55%
    *

    Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

    # Hashtag with us!Don't forget to mention @castiron_keto or tag #castironketo on Instagram with your creations! We love seeing what you're making.
    « Keto Cheeseburger Meatloaf
    Keto Pierogi Sausage Skillet 🥘 »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. ARW says

      December 03, 2019 at 6:44 pm

      I made this with Thanksgiving leftovers and brought it to work and everyone loved it! I forgot to add the cayenne and it was still plenty spicy for us. I actually made it again for my family and they liked it too.

      Reply
    2. Michelle says

      April 04, 2020 at 2:43 am

      5 stars
      Ohhhh my.... I’m always trying new recipes out - Eat a few bites and then toss it... this is a keeper. What a great comfort food especially having to be confined 24/who knows?! I’ve ordered your cookbook and can’t wait to get it. My hats off to you for sharing...

      Reply
    3. Lindy says

      September 27, 2020 at 6:59 pm

      5 stars
      this is so tasty it has become a staple in our home. Add a little pico and guacamole and oh boy , the pot is gone in one sitting!

      Reply
    4. Regina says

      November 29, 2020 at 5:52 am

      5 stars
      Wow!! Soo good. I used my turkey carcus to make the stock so it was a lot of work, but everyone loved it. This is the first time I have taken the time to review. Try this it's great!!

      Reply
    5. Lisa says

      November 29, 2020 at 2:56 pm

      We love comfort soups and that one looks amazing!

      Reply
    6. Kristina Franke says

      November 29, 2020 at 6:24 pm

      5 stars
      Great recipe!

      Reply
    7. Melodie says

      November 29, 2020 at 8:34 pm

      5 stars
      This was both delicious AND quick and easy to make!

      Reply
    8. Leslie says

      November 30, 2020 at 12:47 am

      5 stars
      Very delicious! Hubby says I can make again anytime. (The ultimate compliment from him.) Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
    9. Brenda Wilhite says

      November 30, 2020 at 3:54 am

      5 stars
      Yummy and great way to use up that extra thanksgiving Turkey.

      Reply
    10. Amber says

      January 09, 2021 at 6:26 pm

      5 stars
      This soup was so good! I was looking for a leftover turkey recipe that wasn’t noodle soup. A couple of things I did:
      I already had shredded turkey and broth in the freezer leftover from thanksgiving. I put the carcass in a slow cooker, shredded the turkey and saved the broth which I think definitely added to the flavor.
      I also added corn.
      This soup is on the thinner side so if you want a thicker soup, add a little flour to the sautéed veggies before adding the broth.
      This soup is much better the next day so plan ahead.

      Reply
    11. KK Landrum says

      November 30, 2021 at 2:58 pm

      5 stars
      This is our new favorite post-Thanksgiving soup for using up leftover turkey. Both my son and husband said it was really good. And low carb too.

      Reply
    12. Amber says

      December 03, 2021 at 6:23 pm

      This is so good!!! However, may I suggest changing the wording to
      ONE 7 oz can of green chiles? I read it as 17 oz can of green chilies. Luckily I realized it after re-reading because I knew that couldn’t be right. Otherwise, best leftover turkey soup I’ve ever made!!

      Reply
      • Jamie Reeves says

        December 24, 2021 at 5:43 pm

        I read it as 17 as well, luckily it still tuned out great!

        Reply
    13. Jeana says

      December 12, 2021 at 7:11 pm

      5 stars
      This soup is the best!! Took it to a Christmas gathering and it was a hit! Great flavor!

      Reply
    14. Shannon says

      November 27, 2022 at 11:38 pm

      5 stars
      This is AMAZING. I doubled it and used the turkey broth I made with the bones, and used up the last of the meat. I added a little adobo seasoning and about 8 roasted hatch chilies. I also took about two cups of the liquid, 1/3 the cream and all the cream cheese and blended it in my vitamix,and then added it back to the pot, then tossed in the turkey meat. Otherwise, followed the recipe and WOW! We are in love!

      Reply
    15. Tamara Crouse says

      August 15, 2023 at 7:50 pm

      Incredibly delicious soup. Followed recipe with minor adjustments because of my pantry availability, but a really, really good soup. My husband has a cold, he said he feels better already! Just enough “burn”. AWESOME!

      Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    cast iron keto logo

    Cast Iron Keto publishes tasty low-carb gluten-free recipes all made in cast-iron cookware. We hope you find something you love!

    More about us →

    Trending Recipes

    • keto stuffed peppers in a cast iron skillet
      Keto Stuffed Peppers (Classic Recipe) 🫑
    • Keto Burger on a upside down sheet pan with tomatoes in the background
      Keto Burger - In-N-Out Style 🍔
    • Keto Cheesy Cabbage Sausage Skillet on tabletop
      Keto Cheesy Cabbage Sausage Skillet 🥘
    • Keto Sloppy Joe mixture in a cast iron skillet with a serving spoon
      Keto Sloppy Joes (Skillet Style) 🥘
    • Keto Butter Chicken in a cast iron skillet with cauliflower rice
      Keto Butter Chicken (Easy 30 Minutes Recipe) 🥘
    • Keto Pork Tenderloin in cast iron skillet
      Keto Pork Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter 🥩

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work with us

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2023 Cast Iron Keto