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Lu-Ann Simon May 6, 2026

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Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup

Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup

As the chill in the air settles in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of soup to warm your soul. Imagine a cozy evening at home, the aroma of seasoned turkey meatballs simmering away in your crockpot, mingling with fresh vegetables and comforting broth. This Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup is not only nourishing but also easy to prepare, making it the perfect addition to your weeknight meals. Whether you’re curling up with a good book or entertaining friends, this delightful soup promises to bring a sense of warmth and happiness to your dining table.

Why This Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup is Special

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this soup. For one, it’s packed with flavor while keeping things light on calories. The tender turkey meatballs create a satisfying texture that melds beautifully with a medley of fresh vegetables and savory broth. Plus, using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to deepen without any fuss.

A few key points to highlight this dish:

  • Simple to prepare with minimal cleanup
  • Healthy and low in calories
  • Packed with protein and nutrients
  • Completely customizable to fit your preferences

Gather These Ingredients

Creating this soup requires simple, wholesome ingredients that highlight the flavors of the turkey meatballs and fresh vegetables. You can swap some ingredients based on your dietary needs or preferences; for instance, using whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour keeps the soup low carb without sacrificing texture or taste. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low carb)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup carrots (sliced)
  • 1 small onion (chopped)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¾ cup dry orzo (or other small pasta)
  • 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale

How to Cook Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup

Embarking on this culinary journey is as effortless as following these straightforward steps. The ease of preparation combined with the wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen makes this dish a fantastic choice for busy days.

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
  2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size, making sure they’re nice and compact to hold their shape.
  3. Place the raw meatballs gently at the bottom of your slow cooker. The anticipation of the flavors melding together starts here.
  4. Add the sliced carrots and chopped onion on top of the meatballs, followed by the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. The colors will begin to come together beautifully.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, letting the magic happen while you go about your day.
  6. Approximately 30 minutes before serving, stir in the dry orzo. This will cook to perfect tenderness, adding a delightful bite to the soup.
  7. Finally, toss in the baby spinach or chopped kale during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking, stirring until wilted.

Once you taste this delicious soup, you’ll find it hard to resist a second bowl. Prep ~20 minutes, cook ~6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, total ~6-7 hours, serves ~6, Kcal ~220 per serving.

Make-Ahead and Prep Tips

To simplify your weeknight cooking further, consider preparing the meatballs ahead of time. Mix up the turkey mixture, form the meatballs, and then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, and they’ll be ready to toss into the slow cooker whenever you’re in the mood for a wholesome meal. Plus, you can chop up the veggies ahead of time to make throwing everything into the slow cooker a breeze.

Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup

How to Store Leftovers

Storing any remaining soup is simple and can ensure you enjoy the flavors later in the week. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for about 2-3 months. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it gets too thick. A sign of freshness is the vibrant color and inviting aroma of the ingredients.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to complementing your Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup, consider these delightful accompaniments:

  • Homemade garlic knots are perfect for dipping into this cozy soup
  • A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
  • A side of roasted vegetables
  • Cheese and herb toast for extra indulgence

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup with these exciting variations:

  • Add a kick of heat by tossing in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
  • For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
  • Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers to enhance texture and taste.
  • Use ground chicken instead of turkey for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Experiment with different herbs, like thyme or basil, for a unique twist on the Italian seasoning.

Love a cozy chicken soup? This creamy chicken parmesan soup is another slow cooker favorite worth trying.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

  • When shaping your meatballs, avoid over-mixing; this helps maintain a tender texture.
  • If you’re cooking on high, check the soup after 2.5 hours to ensure the meatballs are cooked through.
  • Reserve a bit of fresh parsley for garnishing to brighten the dish right before serving.
  • Utilize a thermometer to check that the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use a different type of protein?
  • Absolutely! Ground chicken or even lean ground beef can be excellent substitutes while maintaining the flavor profile of the soup.
  • Is it okay to add more vegetables?
  • Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or green beans. Just be mindful of cooking time as different vegetables may require different durations.
  • Can I make this soup low-carb?
  • You can easily make this soup low-carb by substituting orzo with cauliflower rice or additional vegetables, while still enjoying a satisfying meal.
  • How can I make this soup spicier?
  • For some heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the broth. You can also serve with hot sauce for individual spice preferences.
  • Can this soup be frozen?
  • Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Just ensure it has cooled before transferring it into freezer-safe containers.

Wrapping Up

This Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup is a comforting, nutritious option that’s perfect for chilly evenings or a busy weeknight dinner. Its delicious blend of flavors and easy preparation make it your go-to recipe for cozy moments and happy gatherings. Indulge in a bowl today, and let the delightful warmth envelop you, reminding you that food can indeed be a source of comfort and joy.

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Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup


  • Author: anastasia-rice
  • Total Time: 420 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie, Low Carb

Description

This hearty Low Calorie Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for a cozy evening. Easy to prepare and low in calories.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low carb)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup carrots (sliced)
  • 1 small onion (chopped)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¾ cup dry orzo (or other small pasta)
  • 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale

Instructions

  1. Combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
  2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
  3. Place the raw meatballs gently at the bottom of your slow cooker.
  4. Add the sliced carrots and chopped onion on top of the meatballs, followed by the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
  6. Stir in the dry orzo approximately 30 minutes before serving.
  7. Toss in the baby spinach or chopped kale during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking.

Notes

You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for easy cooking later. Store leftovers in airtight containers, good for up to 4 days in the fridge or 2-3 months in the freezer.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 360 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: turkey meatball soup, crockpot soup, low calorie soup