As the chilly nights roll in, nothing beats the cozy embrace of a hearty stew bubbling gently on the stove. The comforting aroma of my Turkey and Potato Stew fills the kitchen, instantly melting away the day’s stress. This dish is my secret weapon for transforming leftover turkey into a soul-warming meal that delights everyone at the table.
With just a handful of simple ingredients like fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and creamy goodness, this recipe doesn’t just make the most of your leftovers but elevates them to something truly special. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving a satisfying dinner after a long day, this stew is a crowd-pleaser that checks all the boxes.
Join me as we dive into this delicious journey of flavors, where each bite is a reminder that home-cooked meals are the heart of shared moments. Grab your favorite pot, and let’s stir up some magic together!
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Stew
Turkey Stew is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors!
Comforting warmth: This hearty stew wraps you in cozy goodness, perfect for chilly nights.
Simplicity: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this delectable meal effortlessly.
Flavorful richness: The blend of fresh herbs and creamy additions creates a delightful taste sensation.
Versatile usage: Ideal for transforming leftover turkey, this dish ensures nothing goes to waste.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Want some more inspiration for your meals? Check out our other delicious stew recipes that are just as easy and satisfying!
Turkey Stew Ingredients
Transforming your leftover turkey into a delightful dish begins with these essential ingredients!
For the Stew
• Olive oil – A splash of healthy fats, adding richness and aiding in vegetable sautéing.
• Large yellow onion – Diced, it brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the stew.
• Cremini mushrooms – Quartered, they add an earthy flavor and texture to the mix.
• Carrots – Peeled and sliced, they provide sweetness and vibrant color to your Turkey Stew.
• Celery – Sliced, this ingredient enhances the stew’s flavor profile with its fresh and crisp essence.
• Garlic – Minced, it delivers that beloved savory aroma that makes any dish irresistible.
• Yukon gold potatoes – Cut into 1-inch pieces, these creamy potatoes will soak up the delicious flavors while giving the stew heartiness.
• Fresh thyme leaves – Finely chopped, they introduce a fragrant herbal note that’s essential for a cozy stew.
• Fresh sage leaves – Chopped small, they add a warm and earthy depth of flavor.
• Kosher salt – Enhances all the ingredients while maintaining the stew’s savory balance.
• Black pepper – Freshly ground to give a hint of spice that complements the rest of the flavors.
• Low-sodium chicken or turkey broth – Using this broth ensures a hearty and rich base for your Turkey Stew.
• Cornstarch – This helps thicken the stew, giving it a luscious consistency.
• Dry white wine – A splash of sauvignon blanc adds acidity and depth to the stew, elevating the flavors.
• Bay leaf – Infuses a soothing, herbal quality that ties all the ingredients together.
• Shredded cooked turkey meat – Transform leftover turkey into tender bites that blend perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Heavy cream – Adding a touch of creaminess that makes every spoonful irresistible.
• Fresh parsley leaves – Coarsely chopped for a hint of freshness and color that brightens the dish.
Gather these ingredients and dive into creating a perfect bowl of comforting Turkey Stew!
How to Make Turkey Stew
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Heat the Oil: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, warm 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This step lays the foundation for a fragrant stew!
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced yellow onion, quartered cremini mushrooms, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook while stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and turn golden brown, around 8 minutes.
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Mix Cornstarch: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of chicken or turkey broth and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth. This thickening mixture helps create a luscious stew.
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Deglaze with Wine: Pour in 3/4 cup of dry white wine, bringing the mixture to a boil. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift those lovely browned bits and let the wine reduce for about 4 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cut Yukon gold potatoes, the cornstarch mixture, the remaining broth, chopped thyme, chopped sage, and a bay leaf. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender and the broth thickens, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
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Add Turkey & Cream: Gently fold in the shredded cooked turkey meat and cook until warmed through, around 3 minutes. Finally, stir in 1/3 cup of heavy cream, adjust salt to taste, and serve your Turkey Stew with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Stew
Fridge: Store your Turkey Stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Turkey Stew in portioned, airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if the stew has thickened.
Serving Tip: Consider topping your reheated stew with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness!
Expert Tips for Turkey Stew
Perfectly Sautéed Veggies: Always let the oil heat up before adding the vegetables. This helps caramelize them beautifully, enhancing the stew’s flavor.
Thickening Secret: Mix the cornstarch with broth before adding it to avoid clumping. This ensures a smooth, luscious turkey stew every time.
Wine Selection: Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc; avoid sweet varieties, which can alter the stew’s balance.
Potato Choice: Yukon gold potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape while absorbing flavors. Avoid waxy potatoes that may turn mushy.
Fresh Herbs: Adding thyme and sage is essential, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary for an extra flavor twist!
These tips will help you avoid common mistakes and elevate your leftover turkey into a delightful turkey stew!
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Stew preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onion, mushrooms, carrots, and celery) and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days before cooking. Additionally, you can sauté the vegetables and combine them with the broth and seasonings, then store this mixture in the fridge for 24 hours. When you’re ready to finish the Turkey Stew, simply bring the mixture to a boil, add the potatoes and shredded turkey, then stir in the heavy cream for that creamy finish. This method ensures your stew remains just as delicious when served!
What to Serve with Turkey and Potato Stew?
As cozy nights call for hearty comforts, let’s make your meal truly special with delightful accompaniments.
- Warm Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread will soak up every drop of that luscious stew, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance the rich flavors and creamy texture.
- Savory Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs complements the stew beautifully, offering a wonderful contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasting carrots and Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness; they add a radiant splash of color and nutrition alongside the stew.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: If you love comfort food, rich, buttery mashed potatoes are a fantastic pairing. They make for a delightful combination when mixed into the stew!
- Garlic Breadsticks: Twisty, buttery garlic breadsticks serve as excellent dippers and bring an aromatic twist that truly sets the mood for the meal.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will elevate your stew experience, complementing the flavors while refreshing your palate.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, the rich and gooey chocolate cake will round off the meal perfectly with its warm, melting center—a sweet finale to a cozy evening.
These pairings not only enhance the Turkey Stew experience but also create cherished moments around the dinner table!
Turkey Stew Variations
Feel free to give your Turkey Stew a personal touch with these delightful variations that will excite your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a luscious, dairy-free twist that adds a hint of sweetness.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while sautéing for a spicy warmth that elevates the flavor.
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Herb Blend: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano alongside thyme and sage to create a unique aromatic profile.
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Root Vegetable Medley: Substitute half the Yukon gold potatoes with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
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Mushroom Variety: Use a mix of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, to enhance the earthy flavor and add textural richness.
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Vegan Option: Replace turkey with chickpeas or lentils and substitute vegetable broth for a robust, plant-based stew that’s hearty and satisfying.
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Savory Umami: A splash of soy sauce or tamari just before serving can deepen the umami flavor, making every spoonful more delicious.
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Additional Veggies: Stir in a cup of frozen peas or chopped kale towards the end for a burst of color and extra nutritional benefits.
With these variations, your Turkey Stew will be a new adventure every time, inviting you to explore endless possibilities on your culinary journey!
Turkey and Potato Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey should I use for this stew?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted turkey works wonderfully, adding great flavor and texture. You can also use deli turkey slices, but aim for unsalted or low-sodium options to keep your stew balanced.
How should I store leftover Turkey Stew?
To keep your Turkey Stew at its best, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make the stew watery.
Can I freeze Turkey Stew? If so, how?
Very much so! To freeze, allow the stew to cool completely, then ladle it into portion-sized, airtight containers. Ensure there’s some space at the top for expansion. Properly stored, it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I do if my stew is too thick?
No worries! If your Turkey Stew turns out thicker than you prefer, just stir in a bit of broth or water a splash at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Simmer gently for a few minutes to reheat without losing the delicious flavors.
Can I make Turkey Stew without heavy cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute the heavy cream with alternatives such as half-and-half, coconut milk, or even a splash of milk. Each will slightly change the flavor, but all will still yield a yummy result.
Is this stew safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing Turkey Stew with pets, especially due to the onions, garlic, and heavy cream, which can be harmful to them. Stick to turkey meat and plain veggies if you’d like to treat your furry friends!
Savory Turkey Stew With Leftover Turkey for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, warm 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Add the diced yellow onion, quartered cremini mushrooms, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook while stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and turn golden brown, around 8 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of chicken or turkey broth and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth.
- Pour in 3/4 cup of dry white wine, bringing the mixture to a boil. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift those lovely browned bits and let the wine reduce for about 4 minutes.
- Stir in the cut Yukon gold potatoes, the cornstarch mixture, the remaining broth, chopped thyme, chopped sage, and a bay leaf. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender and the broth thickens, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Gently fold in the shredded cooked turkey meat and cook until warmed through, around 3 minutes. Finally, stir in 1/3 cup of heavy cream, adjust salt to taste, and serve your Turkey Stew with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.