Turkey Soup

Turkey Soup is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for using up leftover turkey. With a rich, flavorful broth, tender turkey, and a mix of fresh vegetables, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re making it after Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just for a cozy meal, this one-pot wonder is easy to prepare and full of wholesome goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Great for leftovers: A delicious way to use up turkey meat and bones.
• Nutritious and hearty: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal effort.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, pasta, or grains.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and store for later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked turkey (shredded or chopped)
• Turkey carcass (optional, for homemade broth)
• Onion (chopped)
• Carrots (sliced)
• Celery (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Chicken or turkey broth
• Water
• Bay leaves
• Thyme (fresh or dried)
• Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Noodles, rice, or potatoes (optional, for a heartier soup)

Directions

1. Make the broth (optional)
   • Place the turkey carcass in a large pot and cover with water.
   • Add a chopped onion, a few celery stalks, a carrot, and a bay leaf.
   • Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1–2 hours. Strain the broth and discard solids.
2. Prepare the soup
   • In a large pot, heat a little oil and sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened.
   • Add garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves and cook for 1 minute.
   • Pour in the homemade or store-bought broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the turkey
   • Stir in shredded turkey and let the soup cook for 15–20 minutes to blend flavors.
   • If using noodles, rice, or potatoes, add them and cook until tender.
4. Finish and serve
   • Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes (or up to 2 hours if making homemade broth)
• Total time: 50 minutes – 2 hours

Variations

• Creamy turkey soup: Add a splash of cream or milk for a richer version.
• Spicy turkey soup: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Low-carb: Skip the noodles and use extra veggies instead.
• Herby twist: Try rosemary, sage, or dill for extra flavor.
• Wild rice version: Swap noodles for wild rice for a nutty, chewy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked?

Yes, simmer raw turkey pieces in the broth until fully cooked, then shred the meat.

How do I thicken my turkey soup?

Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) or blend some of the soup for a thicker consistency.

Can I add beans to this soup?

Absolutely! White beans, chickpeas, or lentils make a great addition.

What’s the best way to make this soup richer in flavor?

Homemade broth, fresh herbs, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce add depth.

Can I use turkey drippings in the soup?

Yes, a little bit of turkey drippings adds extra richness and flavor.

What if my soup is too salty?

Add more water or broth, or stir in a peeled potato and remove it after 10 minutes to absorb excess salt.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add noodles or rice in the last hour.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free noodles or skip them altogether.

Can I use leftover gravy in the soup?

Yes, stir in a little leftover turkey gravy for extra richness.

What bread pairs well with turkey soup?

Crusty bread, dinner rolls, or cornbread complement this soup perfectly.

Conclusion

Turkey Soup is a delicious, comforting way to use up leftovers while creating a hearty and nutritious meal. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, this soup is an easy, flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Try different variations and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!

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