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As the crisp air of autumn settles in, I find myself seeking comfort in hearty soups that warm both body and soul. One particularly delightful discovery in my quest for the perfect bowl is this New England Turkey Chowder. The combination of tender turkey, creamy half & half, and the rich flavors of salt pork brings a taste of New England right into my kitchen, reminiscent of cozy gatherings by the fireplace.

This chowder is not only a feast for the senses but also surprisingly easy to whip up. With just an hour of your time, you can create a dish that delights everyone at the table, making it a fantastic alternative to that late-night fast food run. Whether you’re basking in the warm glow of a weekend with family or looking to impress guests with something special, this turkey chowder checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the recipe and embrace the comforting magic that a good bowl of chowder can bring!

Why is New England Turkey Chowder so comforting?

Hearty, warming and perfect for chilly evenings, this chowder is all about comfort. Rich, creamy flavors come together with just a few ingredients, making it a simple yet indulgent option. Crowd-friendly and easily scalable, it serves up to 12, ensuring no one goes hungry. Versatile enough to adapt for various dietary needs, and great for using up leftover turkey, this recipe is a definite win. Enjoy a taste of home that brings everyone to the table!

New England Turkey Chowder Ingredients

Unlock the secrets to a delightful chowder!

For the Base
• Salt pork – adds a savory, smoky flavor that is essential in traditional New England chowders.
• Sweet onions – these provide a touch of sweetness that balances the savory ingredients.
• Celery – brings a subtle crunch and aromatic freshness to the dish.
• Butter – enriches the chowder, giving it a smooth, velvety texture.

For the Thickener
• All-purpose flour – serves as the key thickening agent, creating that creamy consistency we all love.
• Fresh thyme – offers a hint of earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• White pepper – adds a gentle warmth without the color, perfect for a clean finish.

For the Chowder
• Turkey stock – the foundation of the chowder; for a richer taste, homemade stock is preferred.
• New Red potatoes – these potatoes hold their shape well, adding heartiness to every spoonful.
• Turkey meat – leftover turkey works like a charm here, making the chowder even more comforting.
• Half & half – imparts creaminess, making each bite irresistibly rich and satisfying.

Embrace the charm of New England Turkey Chowder with these carefully selected ingredients that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds!

How to Make New England Turkey Chowder

Sauté the salt pork in a medium sauté pan over medium heat until it’s browned and crispy, about ten minutes. Then add the diced onions and celery, cooking for three minutes until softened and fragrant.
Create a roux by adding the butter to the pan. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring for about three minutes until the raw flour smell dissipates. Remove from heat and mix in the thyme and white pepper for that added flavor.
Boil the turkey stock in a 6-quart pot. Once boiling, add the diced New Red potatoes and cook for 5-10 minutes until they’re fork-tender and ready for chowder goodness.
Combine the roux with the turkey stock mixture by lowering the heat to medium. Gently stir in the salt pork mixture using a wooden spoon, ensuring everything mixes beautifully.
Finish the chowder by stirring in the turkey meat and half & half. Heat just until everything is warmed through, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with crunchy oyster crackers for the perfect touch.

Optional: Top with fresh thyme leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These New England Turkey Chowder preparations are fantastic for busy weeknights! You can prepare the roux (salt pork mixture) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. Additionally, you can chop the onions, celery, and potatoes up to 3 days ahead and keep them in the fridge to save time. When you’re ready to cook, start by sautéing the prepped vegetables, then add the roux and turkey stock. Finally, stir in the turkey and half & half and heat until warmed through. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of chowder ready with minimal effort, perfect for cozy nights!

Expert Tips for New England Turkey Chowder

Perfectly Cook Salt Pork: Cook the salt pork until crispy to release its flavorful fat, which is essential for a rich chowder base.
Roux Consistency: Ensure your roux doesn’t clump; whisk continuously to create a smooth mixture before adding it to the chowder.
Stock Selection: Opt for homemade turkey stock if possible; it enhances the depth of flavor in your New England Turkey Chowder.
Potato Cooking Time: Do not overcook the New Red potatoes; they should be tender yet firm. This prevents them from breaking down in the chowder.
Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half & half with whole milk, keeping the flavor and texture while reducing richness.
Seasoning Check: Always taste before serving. Adjust seasonings towards the end, as flavors develop while simmering.

New England Turkey Chowder Variations

Feel free to get creative with your chowder and make it your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute half & half with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option that still feels indulgent.
Vegetable Boost: Enhance nutrition by adding diced carrots or green beans; they bring color and elevate the overall flavor. Mixing in some vibrant veggies makes each bowl feel farm-fresh!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a delightful heat that contrasts with the creaminess of the chowder. A touch of spice can warm you right up!
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to create a luscious thickener without wheat. Gluten-free does not mean sacrificing taste, ensuring everyone can enjoy!
Herb Infusion: Replace fresh thyme with fresh dill or parsley for a different aromatic twist that brightens the chowder. Each herb brings a unique note, inviting different flavor experiences.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked turkey in place of regular turkey for an added depth of flavor that will take your chowder to new heights. The subtle smokiness is a comforting surprise that enchants the palate.
Crispy Topping: Top with crispy bacon bits for an extra crunch and savory bite. This little twist adds a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the chowder.
Vegan Option: Replace turkey with chickpeas and use vegetable stock instead for a hearty vegan version that’s still satisfying. This adaptation brings plant-based goodness to your table without losing the charm!

What to Serve with New England Turkey Chowder?

Cozy up your meal with delectable sides that elevate the comforting charm of this delightful chowder!

Oyster Crackers: These classic crunchy bites offer a satisfying texture, perfect for scooping and adding a little crunch to each spoonful of chowder.
Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic loaf complements the rich, creamy flavors perfectly. Dip it in the chowder for a heartwarming experience that screams comfort.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder, providing a refreshing contrast to every hearty bite.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans cooked al dente add color and a slight crunch to the meal, enhancing the overall appeal and healthiness of your dinner.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, soft cornbread muffins bring a touch of sweetness to the meal, creating a delightful pairing with the savory chowder and making it a true feast.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm, spiced dessert, offering a comforting contrast to the creamy texture of the chowder. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for indulgence!
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the chowder, making each sip a refreshing complement to your cozy dinner.

How to Store and Freeze New England Turkey Chowder

Fridge: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the chowder in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat. Stir frequently until warmed through and creamy again, adding a splash of half & half if needed.
Refrigeration Tips: Avoid storing with the oyster crackers, as they can become soggy. Serve them separately for the best crunch!

New England Turkey Chowder Recipe FAQs

What type of salt pork should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using well-cured, thick-cut salt pork for the best flavor. Look for ones with a nice balance of fat and meat. The saltiness will enrich the chowder, but be careful depending on your taste preferences; you can also rinse it before cooking if you find it too salty.

How should I store leftover New England Turkey Chowder?
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let it cool completely before sealing it, as this helps maintain its creamy texture and rich flavors. Ensure you’re not storing it with oyster crackers; they’ll get soggy!

Can I freeze New England Turkey Chowder?
Yes! To freeze, pour the cooled chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It’s best to consume it within 3 months for optimal taste. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently, and add a splash of half & half if it needs a little extra creaminess.

What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
Very! If you find your chowder is thicker than desired, simply whisk in a bit of additional turkey stock or half & half while it heats up. This will loosen the consistency without compromising flavor. Just add gradually until you reach your preferred texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this chowder?
While this New England Turkey Chowder is a comforting dish, do keep in mind that it contains dairy and gluten. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. If you need a dairy-free version, you could try using coconut milk or almond milk, but be aware that this will change the flavor. Always check the seasoning and adjust to your liking!

Can I use leftover turkey from a holiday feast?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this chowder. Just make sure to shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the chowder, which makes the dish even more comforting and meaningful with a touch of nostalgia.