Craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that feels like a hug in a bowl? This Midwest-style creamy turkey chowder is the answer! It combines the rich, velvety texture of New England soups with a comforting Midwestern twist, making it the ultimate way to use up leftover turkey. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also loaded with flavor and warmth—perfect for those chilly nights when you need something truly satisfying. With tender chunks of turkey, wholesome vegetables, and a luxuriously creamy broth, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Pair it with crusty bread, warm cornbread, or even a light side salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels like home on the table.
Midwest Comfort Turkey Chowder
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked turkey | 2 cups |
| Chicken or turkey broth | 4 cups |
| Diced potatoes | 2 cups |
| Diced carrots | 1 cup |
| Diced celery | 1 cup |
| Frozen corn | 1 cup |
| Small onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Dried rosemary | 1 tsp |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Heavy cream or half-and-half | 1 cup |
| Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) | As desired |
Directions
- Place the turkey, broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, corn, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf into your slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cream (or half-and-half) and flour until smooth.
- Stir the cream mixture into the chowder about 30 minutes before serving, allowing it to thicken.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving and garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, swap the cream for milk. If you want a smoother texture (great for picky eaters), blend part of the soup before serving. Add shredded cheese for extra creaminess or toss in crispy bacon bits for a smoky punch of flavor. Want some heat? Stir in a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.
