Turkey and Dumplings Stew is a warm, comforting dish that brings together tender pieces of turkey in a rich, flavorful broth with soft, pillowy dumplings on top. This stew feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a little extra comfort food in your life.
I love making this stew when I have leftover turkey from a roast or holiday dinner because it stretches the meal into something new and exciting. The dumplings are my favorite part—they’re soft and fluffy, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the stew without getting mushy. I always try to keep a close eye on them so they cook just right.
My favorite way to serve this stew is with a simple green salad or some crusty bread on the side to soak up every last bit of that tasty broth. It’s a family favorite because it’s filling, easy to make, and always feels like a special meal. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both homey and satisfying, this stew is definitely one to keep in your go-to list.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Using cooked shredded turkey works best—it’s tender and absorbs broth flavors well. Leftover turkey or even rotisserie chicken are easy options that save time.
Broth: Turkey or chicken broth adds great depth. If you want a richer flavor, use homemade broth. For a lighter taste, low-sodium broth helps control salt levels.
Vegetables: Onion, celery, and carrot create a classic base. Feel free to add peas or parsnips for extra flavor and texture.
Dumplings: All-purpose flour and baking powder make fluffy dumplings. For a twist, try whole wheat flour or add herbs like parsley or thyme into the batter.
Dairy: Whole milk and butter keep dumplings soft. You can substitute milk with cream or plant-based milk, but dumplings may be less rich.
How Can I Make Dumplings Light and Fluffy, Not Dense?
Fluffy dumplings are all about mixing gently and cooking right. Here’s how:
- Whisk dry ingredients first, then add wet ingredients carefully.
- Stir only until ingredients come together—overmixing makes tough dumplings.
- Drop spoonfuls gently onto simmering stew, don’t dunk them in or press down.
- Cover the pot tightly while cooking so steam can puff up the dumplings evenly.
- Cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid, so dumplings don’t collapse.
Following these steps helps you get soft and airy dumplings every time. I like to check one by cutting it open to be sure it’s cooked through but still tender inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – I like it because it heats evenly and is perfect for simmering the stew.
- Saute pan – useful for cooking the vegetables before adding the broth.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep things precise for seasoning and batter.
- Mixing bowls – for preparing the dumpling batter.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the stew and mixing the batter without scratching.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – helps drop dumpling batter evenly onto the stew.
- Lid for your pot – essential for steaming the dumplings properly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of turkey for a quick, flavorful option.
- Add mixed frozen peas or green beans in the last few minutes of simmering for more veggies.
- Sprinkle with a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce before serving to add brightness or spice.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like dill or thyme into the stew or batter for extra flavor.
Turkey and Dumplings Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups turkey or chicken broth
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare and sauté the vegetables, then 15 minutes for simmering the stew. Preparing and cooking the dumplings adds another 15 minutes. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes to an hour from start to finish, making a warm and hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Vegetables:
Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic and Broth:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Next, pour in the turkey or chicken broth. Add shredded turkey, dried thyme, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt to taste. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Make the Dumpling Batter:
While the stew simmers, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. In another bowl, combine the whole milk, melted butter, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep dumplings light.
4. Cook the Dumplings:
Use a spoon to drop heaping spoonfuls (about 2 tablespoons each) of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the simmering stew. Cover the pot tightly with a lid to trap steam, and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes. They will puff up and become soft and fluffy as they steam.
5. Serve:
Check that the dumplings are cooked through and the stew is hot. Turn off the heat, spoon the stew and dumplings into bowls, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy while warm.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Stew?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey, but make sure it’s fully thawed before adding it to the stew. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave to speed things up.
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the stew and dumplings separately if possible. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the stew has thickened too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium-low heat on the stove to maintain the dumplings’ texture and prevent drying out.
Can I Substitute the Milk in the Dumplings?
Yes! You can swap whole milk for plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, but the dumplings might be less rich. Avoid using skim milk to keep the dumplings soft and tender.