Apple Sage Turkey Slow Cooker Tomato Spinach Soup
Ground turkey and diced Gala apples create an unexpectedly satisfying sweet-and-savory balance in this slow-cooked tomato soup. As the soup simmers, the apple pieces soften into the rich tomato and vegetable broth base, adding subtle sweetness to the savory poultry. Finishing the pot with fresh baby spinach and aromatic dried sage just before serving brings bright color and herbal depth right to the table with minimal effort.
Why this one works
- The natural sweetness of Gala apples balances the acidity of crushed tomatoes.
- Browning and draining the turkey beforehand keeps the broth light and flavorful.
- Hands-off slow cooking gives the garlic, onions, and broth plenty of time to meld.
- Stirring in baby spinach at the end preserves its vibrant green color and delicate texture.
What you’ll need
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey Brown thoroughly in a skillet and drain off excess fat before transferring to the slow cooker.
- 2 large (300g) gala apples, diced Dice into uniform bite-sized cubes so they tenderize evenly throughout the long cook.
- 1 cup (30g) fresh baby spinach Stir in right after turning off the heat; the residual warmth wilts the tender leaves in moments.
- 1 can (800g) crushed tomatoes Forms the rich, savory base of the soup broth.
- 1 tbsp (15ml) dried sage Stirred in at the end alongside salt and pepper to preserve its distinct herbal aroma.
- 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth Provides the liquid foundation, harmonizing the savory turkey and sweet apple notes.
- 1 large (150g) yellow onion, diced Adds an aromatic, savory base as it cooks down in the broth.
- 3 cloves (15g) minced garlic Mince finely so it disperses evenly throughout the slow cooker.
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) fine salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) ground black pepper
TRY THIS NEXT: If these flavors sound good to you, Pear Dijon Turkey Slow Cooker Tomato Spinach Soup is a natural one to save for next time.
What to have nearby
- Skillet for browning the ground meat
- Slow cooker (4-quart or larger)
- Chef's knife and cutting board
- Stirring spoon
Step-by-step instructions
The preparation begins on the stovetop to brown the ground turkey and drain any excess fat. Once that step is complete, the slow cooker takes over for a steady, six-hour low simmer.
- 1Step 1
Brown the ground turkey in a skillet and drain fat.
- 2Step 2
Add turkey, apples, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and broth to the slow cooker.
- 3Step 3
Cook on low for 6 hours.
- 4Step 4
Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
- 5Step 5
Season with sage, salt, and pepper before serving.
ALSO GOOD: If these flavors sound good to you, Smoky Paprika Turkey Slow Cooker Tomato Spinach Soup is a natural one to save for next time.
A few things worth knowing
- Drain the browned turkey well before adding it to the cooker to prevent an oily surface layer.
- Keep the slow cooker lid closed during the six hours so the heat and moisture remain consistent.
- Wait until the cooking time is complete before folding in the baby spinach so it stays vibrant.
- Season with salt and pepper alongside the sage at the very end to tailor the final seasoning to taste.
Ways to make it your own
- Garnish individual bowls with a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Top with lightly toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
Serving suggestions
Ladle hot soup into wide bowls and pair with toasted country bread, warm dinner rolls, or a simple green side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.
Storage & reheating
Allow leftover soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Keep in the refrigerator, or freeze in sealed freezer-safe containers for convenient future meals.
Nutrition notes
Nutrition is provided as a general estimate for the listed recipe. Brands, exact portions, and ingredient swaps can change the numbers.
Quick recipe answers
Can the spinach be added at the beginning of the cook time?+
Baby spinach is delicate and breaks down quickly, so it is best added at the very end where residual heat will gently wilt it without overcooking.
Why is the sage added at the end instead of the beginning?+
Adding the dried sage with the final seasoning keeps its herbal flavor distinct and prevents it from fading during the long simmer.
Combining lean turkey, tender fruit, and leafy greens in a tomato broth, this slow cooker meal delivers a warm, balanced bowl with very little active prep.
Apple Sage Turkey Slow Cooker Tomato Spinach Soup
Tender ground turkey, diced Gala apples, and crushed tomatoes simmer slowly before getting finished with tender baby spinach and earthy dried sage.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 large (300g) gala apples, diced
- 1 cup (30g) fresh baby spinach
- 1 can (800g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp (15ml) dried sage
- 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
- 1 large (150g) yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves (15g) minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) fine salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) ground black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the ground turkey in a skillet and drain fat.
- Add turkey, apples, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and broth to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6 hours.
- Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
- Season with sage, salt, and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
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