Delicious Homemade Turkey Soup Recipe For Cold Days

When winter winds blow, nothing warms me like homemade turkey soup. This recipe turns leftover turkey into a cozy meal that unites my family. Each spoonful shares a tale of tradition, love, and turning simple ingredients into something special.

I’ve honed this turkey soup recipe over years of cooking. Its rich broth and tender meat make it more than a meal—it’s a celebration of home cooking. It’s perfect for using leftover Thanksgiving turkey or fresh ingredients, becoming your favorite comfort food.

Key Takeaways

• A versatile turkey soup recipe that works with fresh or leftover turkey
• Rich, nutrient-packed soup with 24g of protein per serving
• Easy to customize with different vegetables and herbs
• Perfect for meal prep and freezing
• Ideal way to reduce food waste after holiday meals

Why I Love Making Turkey Soup

Turkey soup is my go-to comfort food after Thanksgiving. It’s magical to turn leftover turkey into a warm, nourishing meal. It brings joy to my kitchen.

My love for this soup is more than just a tasty meal. It’s about reducing waste and using Thanksgiving leftovers in a delightful way.

A Comfort Food Classic

Nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade turkey soup when it’s cold outside. The rich turkey broth and tender veggies offer a soul-warming experience. It feels like a warm hug.

Perfect for Leftovers

• Easily transforms leftover turkey into a new meal
• Reduces food waste after holiday gatherings
• Provides a nutritious alternative to repeated turkey sandwiches

Using leftover turkey is not only smart but also delicious. Each spoonful reminds me of family gatherings and creates new memories.

Great for Meal Prep

Efficiency meets deliciousness in this turkey soup recipe. I can make a big batch that lasts all week, providing quick, satisfying meals.

“A good soup is like a warm embrace from the kitchen” – My Grandmother’s Wisdom

This turkey soup is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers or when you just want a comforting meal.

Homemade Turkey Soup Recipe

---

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This easy turkey soup is warm, comforting, and a great way to use up leftover turkey. With fresh vegetables, herbs, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for chilly days!

---

Ingredients

•2 tbsp olive oil

•1 small onion, diced

•2 carrots, sliced

•2 celery stalks, sliced

•3 cloves garlic, minced

•6 cups turkey broth (or chicken broth)

•2 cups cooked turkey, shredded

•1 tsp salt (or to taste)

•1/2 tsp black pepper

•1/2 tsp dried thyme

•1/2 tsp dried oregano

•1 bay leaf

•1 cup egg noodles (or rice)

•1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

•1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

---

Instructions

1.In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2.Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.

3.Add garlic and cook for another minute.

4.Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.

5.Stir in turkey, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Simmer for 20 minutes.

6.Add egg noodles (or rice) and cook until tender.

7.Remove bay leaf and stir in parsley and lemon juice.

8.Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Notes

•For a richer broth, use homemade turkey stock.

•Substitute noodles with rice or barley for variety.

•Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: turkey soup, leftover turkey, easy soup recipe, homemade soup, healthy soup, Thanksgiving leftovers

Ingredients I Use for My Turkey Soup

Making the best turkey soup begins with picking top-notch ingredients. These turn your leftover holiday meal into a tasty, healthy dish. The right mix of veggies, herbs, and turkey is key to a memorable soup.

Fresh Vegetables That Make the Difference

I start with a classic mirepoix. It’s a mix of veggies that adds flavor to my soup. Here are the essential veggies:

• Onions (for a robust foundation)
• Carrots (adding natural sweetness)
• Celery (providing a subtle crunch)
• Garlic (for aromatic intensity)
• Spinach or kale (for added nutrition)

Soup Seasonings to Elevate Your Flavor

The secret to a great turkey soup is in its seasonings. My favorite herbs and spices are:

Selecting the Perfect Turkey

Choosing the right turkey is important. A turkey carcass from a holiday meal makes a rich stock. Or, use fresh ground turkey or parts for a soup you can enjoy any time of the year.

“The key to an outstanding turkey soup is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and being generous with your seasonings.”

How to Prepare the Turkey

Turning a turkey into a tasty soup needs some careful steps. You can use a whole roasted turkey or leftover pieces. The goal is to get as much flavor as possible from the bird.

To make a rich turkey broth, start by breaking down the turkey carcass after roasting. This is the first step in my recipe.

Cooking a Whole Turkey

Roasting a whole turkey is great for soup. It gives you tender meat and deep flavors. These flavors will make your bone broth even better.

• Roast turkey until golden brown
• Remove meat for soup preparation
• Break down the turkey carcass

Using Turkey Parts or Leftover Turkey

If you don’t have a whole turkey, turkey parts are a good substitute. Brown the turkey pieces before adding them to the soup. This step boosts the flavor.

“The secret to a great turkey soup is in the careful preparation of the meat and broth.”

The Importance of Broth

A flavorful turkey broth is key. Simmering the turkey carcass for hours extracts nutrients. This creates a rich base for your soup. A good broth can turn a simple dish into something amazing.

Pro tip: Always start with cold water for turkey broth. Strain carefully to get a clear, flavorful liquid. This will make your soup unforgettable.

The Steps to Making My Turkey Soup

Making a tasty turkey soup recipe needs careful steps and attention. Let’s go through how to turn leftover turkey into a warm, comforting soup.

Sautéing the Vegetables

I start by heating olive oil in a big pot. Then, I prepare my vegetable base. The secret to a great homemade stock is sautéing the veggies right.

• 1-2 cups sliced carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• ½ cup chopped onion

I sauté these veggies for 2-3 minutes. They get slightly tender and release their flavors.

Adding Broth and Turkey

Now, I build the soup’s base. I add 6 cups of homemade stock for deep flavor. Then, I mix in 3 cups of turkey meat, keeping it tender.

Simmering for Delicious Flavor

The simmering stage is where magic happens. I let the soup bubble gently. This takes about 30 minutes, making a rich, comforting hearty soup for cold days.

“A great turkey soup is all about patience and layering flavors.” – Home Cook Wisdom

The result is a nutritious meal for 6 people. Each serving is full of flavor and nutrients.

Tips for Adding Extra Flavor

Making a memorable turkey soup is all about adding layers of flavor. The right seasonings can turn a simple dish into something amazing. Here are my top tips for making your turkey soup taste incredible.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Broth: A Flavor Showdown

Homemade turkey broth is a game-changer. While store-bought broth is okay, homemade is far superior. It’s worth the effort to make your own stock.

Flavor Enhancers to Elevate Your Soup

Here are my top tips for making your turkey soup unforgettable:

• Add a Parmesan rind while simmering for subtle umami depth
• Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
• Squeeze fresh lemon juice just before serving
• Experiment with umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce

“The secret to an amazing soup is layering flavors thoughtfully and tasting as you go.”

My favorite trick is to simmer turkey bones with veggies for 8-10 hours. This makes a stock that’s incredibly flavorful, making every spoonful better.

Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor

When using seasonings, keep these tips in mind:

1. Start with quality ingredients
2. Build layers of flavor gradually
3. Taste and adjust seasonings
4. Don’t be afraid to experiment

Whether you use homemade or store-bought stock, these tips will make your turkey soup incredibly flavorful.

How to Thicken My Turkey Soup

Making the perfect hearty soup is about flavor and the right consistency. My turkey soup recipe shows you how to turn a thin broth into a rich, comforting meal.

Thickening Options for Your Turkey Soup

For a heartier turkey soup, I use a few reliable methods:

• Cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water)
• Pureed vegetables
• Cream or half-and-half
• Mashed potatoes
• Pureed white beans

Recommended Thickening Techniques

My top choice is making a cornstarch slurry. Whisk cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the soup. This prevents lumps and gives a smooth texture. I add this mixture near the end of cooking. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to get the right thickness.

“The secret to a perfect turkey soup is patience and gradual thickening.”

Remember to add thickening agents slowly. You can always add more, but it’s hard to thin out a thick soup. Try different methods to find what you like best for a delicious hearty soup.

Variations on My Turkey Soup Recipe

Making a tasty turkey soup recipe is all about being creative. It’s about making a soup that warms your heart. Every holiday meal offers a chance to turn leftover turkey into something amazing.

Exploring Rice and Noodle Options

My top turkey soup variations add exciting textures and tastes. When adding grains or pasta, here’s what I suggest:

• Cook rice or noodles separately to prevent mushiness
• Try egg noodles for a classic touch
• Experiment with wild rice for nutty undertones
• Consider rotini pasta for fun texture

Vegetables That Transform Your Soup

Vegetables can turn a simple turkey soup into a nutritional powerhouse. I enjoy trying new veggies to add depth and interest.

“Soup is forgiving – make it your own and let your culinary creativity shine!”

My secret is finding the right balance of flavors. Whether you add spicy jalapeños or a bit of chili powder, aim for a memorable meal. Turn holiday leftovers into something truly special.

Storing and Freezing Turkey Soup

Keeping your leftover turkey soup fresh is simple. After enjoying a meal, storing it right lets you enjoy it later. This way, you keep the taste and quality perfect.

Choosing the Right Containers

For storing leftovers, choose airtight containers. Glass containers are best because they:

• Don’t absorb flavors
• Prevent staining
• Allow easy visibility of contents
• Are freezer and microwave safe

Refrigeration and Freezing Guidelines

Your homemade turkey noodle soup stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freezing is great for longer storage.

Freezer Storage Tips

For top-quality soup, follow these freezing tips:

1. Use freezer-safe bags or containers
2. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn
3. Label containers with the date
4. Freeze for up to 3-4 months

Pro tip: Freeze individual portions for convenient future meals!

“Proper storage transforms leftover turkey into a delightful future meal.” – Home Cooking Wisdom

Thawing and Reheating

To thaw your soup, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave. Stir often to warm it evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Creating the perfect holiday meal is more than just making a hearty soup. My turkey soup can become a memorable meal with the right sides and presentation.

Complementary Side Dishes

I’ve found some great side dishes that make my turkey soup special. Here are my favorites:

• Crusty artisan bread for dipping
• Homemade garlic bread
• Crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette
• Warm dinner rolls

Creative Serving Ideas

Turning a simple soup into a fun meal is easy. Here are some ideas:

• Create a soup bar with toppings
• Serve in hollowed-out bread bowls
• Offer garnish options like:

1. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2. Chopped fresh herbs
3. Crispy croutons
4. Sour cream dollop

Nutrition and Portion Guide

“The art of serving soup is not just about the food, but creating a warm, inviting experience for those you love.”

My goal is to make a simple turkey soup into a memorable holiday meal. With the right presentation and sides, any meal can become special.

Conclusion: Enjoying My Turkey Soup Year-Round

My turkey soup recipe has grown into a beloved tradition, not just for holidays. It’s a hearty soup that offers comfort all year. The turkey soup recipe is versatile and rich, perfect for any time of the year.

Sharing this soup with loved ones is a special moment for me. It reminds me of the power of food to connect us. The strong flavor of turkey soup makes leftover meat into a dish everyone loves.

What I love most is the soup’s message of resourcefulness and love. Using every turkey part, I make a tasty meal and reduce waste. Whether it’s winter or summer, this soup brings people together, creating wonderful memories.

Share with Love

I invite you to make this soup your own and share it with others. Good food is about connection, tradition, and joy. Let’s create lasting memories together.

Turkey Soup Recipe

This delicious homemade turkey soup is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey. Packed with tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this soup is warm, comforting, and nutritious. Whether you’re making it after Thanksgiving or just craving a cozy bowl of goodness, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to satisfy.

Type: Soup, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keywords: turkey soup, leftover turkey recipe, homemade soup, comforting soup, easy turkey soup, Thanksgiving leftovers

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 250 kcal per serving

Preparation Time: PT15M

Cooking Time: PT45M

Total Time: PT1H

Recipe Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups turkey broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup egg noodles (or rice)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Recipe Instructions: 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. 2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. 3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. 4. Pour in the turkey broth and bring to a boil. 5. Add the shredded turkey, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes. 6. Stir in the egg noodles (or rice) and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. 7. Remove the bay leaf and stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice if using. 8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. 9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Editor's Rating:
4.8

Pros

• ✅ Great for using up leftover turkey
• ✅ Warm, cozy, and full of flavor
• ✅ Easy to customize with different ingredients

Cons

• ❌ Requires time to simmer for best flavor
• ❌ Can be high in sodium depending on broth choice