Creamy Turkey and Parsnip Stew

Name: Creamy Turkey and Parsnip Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb turkey breast, diced; 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I first made this Creamy Turkey and Parsnip Stew, I was amazed at how comforting it felt. The rich, creamy broth envelops tender turkey and sweet parsnips, creating a dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines simple ingredients with a few cooking techniques to achieve a depth of flavor that surprises everyone I share it with. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:30:20.603Z

With every spoonful of this Creamy Turkey and Parsnip Stew, I recall the chilly night I first crafted it. As the turkey simmered and the parsnips softened, the delightful aroma filled my home, reminding me of family gatherings and warm meals shared. I chose parsnips not just for their sweetness but for their unique texture, which perfectly complements the tender turkey. It's a flavor combination that grows on you with each bite.

What sets this stew apart is the addition of a creamy herb sauce that infuses it with freshness. I recommend using fresh thyme and a splash of lemon juice at the end for a bright finish. It’s a small tip that elevates the dish from hearty to heavenly. With this stew, you not only warm your body but also your heart.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that envelops tender chunks of turkey
Delightfully sweet and earthy flavor from parsnips
Perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs for a bright finish

Understanding the Role of Parsnips

Parsnips bring a delightful sweetness to this stew, creating a well-balanced flavor profile that contrasts beautifully with the savory turkey. When cooked, they become tender and creamy, enriching the broth's texture. If you can't find parsnips, you can substitute them with carrots or potatoes, but be mindful that the stew will have a slightly different flavor, lacking the earthy note that parsnips provide.

Another great aspect of parsnips is their ability to absorb flavors from the broth and herbs. As they simmer, they take on the savory notes of the thyme and garlic, enhancing the overall dish. When you chop them, aim for even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and reach that ideal softness without turning mushy.

Cream Incorporation Techniques

Incorporating cream at the end is essential for achieving a luscious texture without curdling. Make sure to stir it in on low heat; a gentle simmer helps it meld smoothly with the broth. If you notice the cream starting to separate, reduce the heat immediately and stir to reincorporate it into the stew. If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream, though this will alter the flavor slightly.

For an extra touch of richness, you can add a splash of white wine before the cream, allowing it to evaporate and concentrate the flavors. This technique also adds a slight acidity that balances the creaminess. Just ensure the alcohol is cooked off, which generally takes about 2-3 minutes over medium heat.

Serving and Storing Tips

This stew can be served hot, straight from the pot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. Serving it with crusty bread or a green salad makes for a wholesome meal. If you want to elevate the dish further, consider topping it with a dollop of sour cream for added tang.

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to make the stew ahead of time, it's best to cook the turkey and vegetables, but wait to add the cream until you're ready to serve, as this ensures it stays fresh and prevents curdling. You can also freeze the stew for up to three months, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this comforting stew.

For the Stew

1 lb turkey breast, diced
2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start for an easier cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Turkey and Parsnip Stew.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and parsnips. Sauté until the vegetables start to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Brown the Turkey

Add the diced turkey to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the Stew

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Add Cream and Finish

Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if necessary. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Enjoy your cozy stew with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to meld. Try experimenting with other vegetables like potatoes or celery for added texture.

Make-Ahead Strategies

If you're short on time during the week, consider prepping the ingredients in advance. Chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator in a sealed container. You could also brown the turkey ahead of time and store it separately. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the remaining steps as directed, and you'll have a hearty meal ready within 30 minutes.

When making this stew in advance, remember that the flavors tend to deepen and improve after a day. If you can, let it sit in the fridge overnight before reheating; this waiting period allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stew appears too thick after simmering, simply add more chicken broth or a bit of water to reach your desired consistency. Make sure to stir it well to re-integrate the flavors. On the other hand, if it's too thin, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to evaporate some of the liquid.

On the off chance that the stew seems bland, consider adjusting your seasonings with more thyme, salt, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors significantly; just be careful to add it slowly, tasting as you go, to avoid overpowering the dish.

Flavor Variations

If you want to experiment with flavors, try incorporating a variety of herbs. Fresh sage or rosemary works well in this stew and can replace or complement thyme for a different aromatic profile. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the sweetness of the parsnips and add depth to the dish.

For a bit of a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This can give your creamy turkey and parsnip stew an exciting twist, perfect for those who enjoy a bit more spice in their meals. Just start small, as you can always add more as it cooks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover turkey for this stew?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works great and cuts down on cooking time.

→ How can I make this stew healthier?

You can use low-fat cream or substitute with coconut milk for a lighter option.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad.