A delicious and comforting meal that helps use up the leftover Thanksgiving turkey! This Creamy Turkey Wild Rice Soup is full of comforting spices, cream cheese, leftover turkey, mushrooms, and more. Every bite is flavorful, rich, and bowl-licking good.
Sauté vegetables. In a large pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the mushrooms and onion and cook until softened and lightly browned. Stir in the carrots and celery and cook until beginning to soften. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
Season and thicken. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, rosemary, and nutmeg. Make a well in the center, add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and let it melt. Sprinkle in the flour and stir until all vegetables are evenly coated.
Add liquids and rice. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and water until smooth. Bring to a boil. Add the rice, discarding the seasoning packets, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender.
Finish soup. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted. Add the lemon juice and turkey and mix well. Remove from heat and slowly stir in the milk until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve. Serve warm.
Notes
Rice swap. Use 2 cups dry wild rice in place of Rice-a-Roni if preferred.
Protein options. Cooked shredded chicken works in place of turkey.
Creaminess. Soften cream cheese fully before adding to prevent lumps.
Milk choices. Heavy cream, half-and-half, or dairy-free milk can be used.
Storage. Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing. Freeze without dairy and add cream cheese and milk after reheating.