As the holiday season winds down, many of us find ourselves with an abundance of delectable leftover turkey. Rather than letting that perfectly cooked poultry go to waste, why not transform it into a heartwarming, soul-satisfying meal? This easy turkey soup recipe is precisely what you need. Brimming with fresh, wholesome vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s an incredibly filling and wonderfully comforting dish that breathes new life into your post-holiday pantry. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a bowl of pure goodness.
I often think of my parents when I’m making soup. My mom, a true culinary artist in her own right, has always excelled in the kitchen, and her taco stew recipe remains a beloved favorite on our site. However, my dad wasn’t much of a soup enthusiast when we were growing up, so my mom didn’t collect a vast array of soup recipes. It’s amusing how things change; now that my siblings and I have all left home, my parents seem to prepare more soups than ever before! Perhaps my dad, much like a child, simply needed to outgrow his pickiness.
This leftover turkey soup profoundly reminds me of them. It’s perfectly designed for utilizing Thanksgiving turkey leftovers or any roasted turkey, incredibly straightforward to make, and has a magical way of pleasing even the most discerning palates. My mom was always adept at repurposing leftovers, proving she truly is the queen of the kitchen in every aspect.
Crafting the Perfect Leftover Turkey Soup: Essential Ingredients
Transforming your delicious leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas into this incredibly satisfying soup is both simple and rewarding! This recipe relies on a harmonious blend of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a robust and deeply comforting flavor profile. The beauty of this homemade turkey soup lies in its flexibility; feel free to customize it with any vegetables your family loves most or whatever you have on hand. Here’s your comprehensive grocery list for a truly flavorful experience:
- Butter or Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing vegetables and building a foundational flavor. Choose butter for a richer taste or olive oil for a lighter touch.
- Onion: A large, finely minced onion forms the aromatic base of the soup, adding sweetness and depth.
- Celery: Two stalks of chopped celery contribute a classic earthy flavor and crisp texture, complementing the other vegetables beautifully.
- Garlic: Three cloves of finely minced garlic infuse the soup with a pungent, savory kick that is indispensable in any comforting soup.
- Carrots: About 1 ½ cups of chopped carrots add vibrant color, natural sweetness, and a wealth of nutrients.
- Potatoes: Two medium potatoes, peeled and chopped, provide a satisfying heartiness and help to thicken the broth slightly as they cook.
- Turkey Broth (or Chicken Broth): Four quarts (16 cups) of high-quality turkey broth is ideal for a rich, authentic flavor. If turkey broth isn’t available, chicken broth is a perfectly acceptable and delicious substitute.
- Turkey: 4-5 cups of chopped leftover turkey is the star of this soup, offering lean protein and a wonderful texture.
- Rosemary: Two sprigs of fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried) impart a woodsy, piney aroma that pairs exceptionally well with turkey.
- Savory: One sprig of savory (or ½ teaspoon dried) adds a peppery, slightly minty note that enhances the overall herbaceousness.
- Sage: One teaspoon of chopped fresh sage (or ½ teaspoon dried) is a quintessential turkey seasoning, bringing a warm, earthy flavor.
- Bay Leaf: A single bay leaf contributes a subtle, almost floral note that deepens the complexity of the broth. Remember to remove it before serving.
- Salt: To taste. Salt is crucial for bringing out all the flavors of the ingredients.
- Pepper: ½ teaspoon, to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle spice and aroma.
- Parsley: Fresh, chopped parsley for garnish, adding a burst of freshness and color just before serving.
Exact measurements and detailed instructions for each ingredient are provided in the comprehensive recipe card below, ensuring you have everything you need to create this amazing leftover turkey soup.
A Simple Guide to Making Hearty Turkey Soup
This homemade turkey soup recipe is designed for the stovetop, offering a classic, comforting cooking experience. However, for those who prefer alternative methods, we’ve also included directions for making this versatile soup in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot, ensuring there’s a method to suit every kitchen and schedule. Let’s dive into the stovetop method first:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by adding your butter or olive oil to a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely, or the oil to shimmer. Once hot, add the finely minced onion, chopped celery, minced garlic, and chopped carrots. Sauté these vegetables gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the foundational flavor of your soup.
- Combine All Ingredients: After the vegetables are perfectly softened, add the remaining ingredients to the Dutch oven. This includes your chopped potatoes, turkey broth (or chicken broth), chopped leftover turkey, sprigs of rosemary and savory, chopped sage, the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure all components are well combined and seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Simmer to Perfection: Place a lid securely on your Dutch oven. Reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes. While 30 minutes will allow the flavors to meld, simmering for a longer period (up to several hours on very low heat) will deepen the flavors even further, making the soup exceptionally rich and robust. Taste occasionally and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference. The potatoes should be fork-tender when ready.
- Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, carefully remove the herb sprigs and the bay leaf. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh, chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite bread or crackers for a truly comforting meal.
These detailed instructions, along with ingredient quantities, are also conveniently available in the recipe card below for your ease of reference.
The Art of Homemade Turkey Broth: Elevating Your Soup
While store-bought turkey or chicken broth works wonderfully, creating homemade turkey broth from your leftover turkey carcass is a game-changer for this soup. It infuses an unparalleled depth of flavor and nutrients, making your soup truly exceptional. The process is incredibly straightforward and a fantastic way to utilize every part of your holiday bird. Here’s how to make your own rich, homemade turkey stock:
- Prepare the Carcass: After carving your turkey, place the entire leftover turkey carcass (bones, skin, and any remaining meat) into a large stock pot. You can also add any giblets (excluding the liver, which can make the broth bitter) for extra flavor. For an even richer, darker broth, you can lightly roast the carcass and any other bones in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-45 minutes before placing them in the pot.
- Add Aromatics and Water: Cover the turkey carcass completely with cold water. Cold water is key as it helps to slowly extract more flavor and nutrients from the bones as it heats. Add aromatic vegetables such as a roughly chopped onion, a few stalks of celery, a couple of carrots, and several cloves of garlic (no need to mince them).
- Introduce Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor with a medley of herbs. Bay leaves, fresh rosemary sprigs, and fresh thyme sprigs are excellent choices. A few peppercorns also contribute to the depth of flavor. Avoid adding salt at this stage, as the broth will reduce, concentrating its flavors, and you can season the final soup later.
- Simmer Slowly: Bring the pot to a full boil over high heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to a very low simmer. Cover the pot loosely (or slightly ajar to allow steam to escape) and let it gently simmer for a minimum of 2-4 hours, or even up to 6-8 hours for an exceptionally rich stock. The longer it simmers, the more flavor will be extracted from the bones and vegetables. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during the first hour of simmering.
- Strain and Store: Once your broth has simmered to perfection, carefully strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into another large pot or heat-proof containers. Discard the turkey carcass and all the cooked herbs and vegetables, leaving behind a clear, golden, and incredibly flavorful broth. Allow the broth to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it for several months.
You simply cannot beat the robust, authentic taste of homemade turkey stock. It transforms this leftover turkey soup into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Slow Cooker & Instant Pot Turkey Soup
This hearty turkey soup is incredibly adaptable and can be prepared using various cooking methods, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Whether you prefer the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of a slow cooker or the speed of an Instant Pot, you can enjoy this comforting dish with minimal fuss.
Slow Cooker Turkey Soup: Effortless Comfort
Yes, this recipe makes an absolutely fantastic slow cooker soup! The extended cooking time allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and aromatic broth. For the best flavor, we highly recommend an initial sauté:
- Sauté for Flavor: Follow step 1 of the stovetop directions. In a separate skillet or your slow cooker’s browning function (if it has one), sauté the onions, celery, garlic, and carrots in butter or olive oil for 5-7 minutes until tender and translucent. This step is crucial for developing a rich, caramelized flavor base that significantly enhances the soup.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Once the vegetables are sautéed, transfer them to your slow cooker. Add all the remaining ingredients: chopped potatoes, turkey broth, chopped turkey, herbs (rosemary, savory, sage, bay leaf), salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the vegetables, especially the potatoes, to be tender and the flavors fully developed.
- Serve: Before serving, remove the herb sprigs and bay leaf. Ladle the warm, comforting slow cooker turkey soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Instant Pot Turkey Soup: Quick & Flavorful
Absolutely! The Instant Pot is a phenomenal tool for making this easy turkey soup in a fraction of the time, without compromising on flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Sauté in the Instant Pot: Add the butter or olive oil directly to your Instant Pot. Select the “Sauté” mode and adjust to “Normal” or “More.” Once hot, add the onions, celery, garlic, and carrots. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Press “Cancel” to turn off the Sauté mode. Add the chopped potatoes, turkey broth, chopped turkey, herbs (rosemary, savory, sage, bay leaf), salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir everything together.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, ensuring the venting knob is in the “Sealing” position. Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the timer for 8-10 minutes on high pressure.
- Quick Release and Serve: Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the venting knob to the “Venting” position. Once the float valve drops, carefully remove the lid. Remove the herb sprigs and bay leaf. Ladle the steaming Instant Pot turkey soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and dig in!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Turkey Soup
Few things complement a warm, hearty bowl of soup quite like a substantial piece of delicious bread for dipping. It’s truly a match made in culinary heaven! This comforting turkey soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some of my favorite bread recipes that are absolutely ideal for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth:
- No-Knead Artisan Bread: Its crusty exterior and soft, airy interior are perfect for dipping. The rustic charm of this bread makes any soup feel like a gourmet meal.
- Fluffy Potato Rolls: These soft, tender rolls are incredibly comforting and absorb the soup’s flavors wonderfully. Their slight sweetness and light texture make them an irresistible side.
- Herbed Focaccia Bread: Infused with fragrant herbs and drizzled with olive oil, focaccia adds an extra layer of aromatic flavor and a satisfying chewiness to your soup experience.
If you prefer something simpler, a handful of good old soda crackers, oyster crackers, or any type of cracker you enjoy will also be a delightful addition to this classic turkey soup. The crunch and subtle saltiness provide a lovely contrast to the smooth, rich soup. Ultimately, this leftover turkey soup, served with your chosen accompaniment, truly embodies pure comfort food.
Delicious Variations for Your Turkey Soup
One of the best aspects of this easy homemade soup is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes, use up other ingredients, or cater to different dietary needs. Here are some creative variations to inspire your next batch:
- Chicken Substitute: If it’s not turkey season, or you simply prefer chicken, a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store makes a perfect substitute. Shred the meat and use it as you would the turkey. You can also use the rotisserie chicken carcass to make a flavorful homemade chicken broth, just as you would with a turkey carcass.
- Add Grains or Pasta: To make this hearty soup even more substantial and filling, consider adding grains or pasta. Stir in some white rice or brown rice during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking (adjusting liquid as needed) for a wholesome meal. Alternatively, egg noodles can be added during the last 10 minutes, transforming it into a delightful turkey noodle soup, a true classic comfort dish.
- Creamy Turkey Soup: For a richer, creamier texture, stir in ½ to 1 cup of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a can of evaporated milk during the last 5-10 minutes of simmering. This creates a luxurious mouthfeel that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a finely chopped jalapeño along with the other vegetables when sautéing.
- More Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself to the suggested vegetables! This soup is a fantastic vehicle for using up whatever produce you have. Consider adding chopped zucchini, green beans, peas (add frozen peas during the last 5 minutes), corn, mushrooms, spinach (stir in at the very end until wilted), or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile and added nutrients.
- Different Herbs and Spices: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, marjoram, or bay leaves. A touch of smoked paprika can add a wonderful smoky depth, while a pinch of nutmeg can bring out the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Lemon Zest or Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest at the very end of cooking can brighten all the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
With these variations, your leftover turkey soup can be a new culinary adventure every time you make it!
Storage Solutions and Reheating Your Turkey Soup
Making a large batch of this comforting turkey soup is a fantastic idea, as it stores incredibly well, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavors for days or even months to come. Proper storage ensures both freshness and safety.
Refrigeration:
Once your leftover turkey soup recipe has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. Stored correctly in the refrigerator, the soup will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any absorption of refrigerator odors and to maintain optimal freshness.
Freezing:
This homemade turkey soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent meal prep option. To freeze, first allow the soup to cool completely. Divide it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top to account for expansion during freezing. Alternatively, you can use heavy-duty freezer bags; lay them flat in the freezer to save space. Label your containers or bags with the date. The soup can be frozen for up to 6 months. When ready to enjoy, simply transfer the frozen soup to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, or use the reheating methods below directly from frozen if you’re in a hurry.
Reheating:
Reheating this leftover turkey soup is quick and easy, ensuring you can enjoy a warm, comforting meal whenever you desire:
- Microwave: For individual portions, transfer the desired amount of soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until thoroughly warmed. Be cautious, as liquids can heat unevenly in the microwave.
- Stovetop: To reheat a larger batch, pour the soup into a saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Bring it to a gentle simmer, and continue heating until the soup is piping hot. This method is often preferred as it helps to maintain the soup’s texture and flavor.
Always ensure the soup reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating to ensure food safety. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Few things bring me more joy than repurposing leftovers into something utterly delicious! Making a rich, flavorful soup is hands down the perfect way to do just that, and it’s also a brilliant method for utilizing any vegetables that need to be eaten from your crisper. This leftover turkey soup encapsulates all the warmth, flavor, and yum of Thanksgiving, delivering a cozy embrace to your belly all over again. It’s a testament to the fact that great food never truly goes to waste.
More Creative Leftover Turkey Recipes:
Don’t let any of that delicious holiday turkey go to waste! Here are some other fantastic and creative ways to transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into exciting new meals:
- Turkey Tetrazzini: A creamy, baked pasta dish that’s rich and satisfying.
- Ultimate Leftover Turkey Club: Elevate your sandwich game with layers of flavor.
- Turkey Pot Pie: A classic comfort food with a flaky crust and savory filling.
- Chicken (or Turkey) Tortilla Soup: A vibrant, zesty soup with a Tex-Mex twist.
- Honey Avocado Turkey Bacon Sandwich: A fresh, flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for a light lunch.
- Chicken (or Turkey) Wild Rice Soup with Leeks: A sophisticated and hearty soup with earthy flavors.
- Turkey BLT Wrap: A quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy your turkey.
- Triple Decker Club Sandwich: An impressive and satisfying sandwich for any time.
Leftover Turkey Soup
Sweet Basil
10 minutes
37 minutes
47 minutes
8
Ingredients
-
2
Tablespoons
Butter,
or olive oil -
1
Large
Onion,
minced fine -
2
Stalks
Celery,
chopped -
3
Cloves
Garlic,
minced fine -
1 1/2
Cups
Carrots,
chopped -
2
Potatoes,
peeled and chopped -
4
Quarts
Turkey Broth,
(16 cups) or chicken *see note -
4-5
Cups
Turkey,
chopped -
2
Sprigs
Rosemary,
(1 teaspoon dry) -
1
Sprig
Savory,
(1/2 teaspoon dry) -
1
teaspoon
Sage,
chopped (1/2 teaspoon dry) -
1
Bay Leaf -
1
teaspoon
Salt,
(to taste) -
1/2
teaspoon
Pepper,
(to taste) -
Parsley,
fresh, chopped
Instructions
-
In a Dutch oven, add the butter or oil and heat until melted over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, garlic and carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender and translucent.
-
Add the remaining ingredients, stirring to combine.
-
Cook, covered for 30 minutes, up to all day, tasting occasionally to adjust seasonings. You’re looking for the potatoes to be tender. Remove the herb sprigs and bay leaf and serve with crackers or bread and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Serving:
1
cup
,
Calories:
143
kcal
,
Carbohydrates:
7
g
,
Protein:
14
g
,
Fat:
7
g
,
Saturated Fat:
3
g
,
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
,
Monounsaturated Fat:
2
g
,
Trans Fat:
0.1
g
,
Cholesterol:
53
mg
,
Sodium:
2150
mg
,
Potassium:
330
mg
,
Fiber:
1
g
,
Sugar:
4
g
,
Vitamin A:
4195
IU
,
Vitamin C:
3
mg
,
Calcium:
49
mg
,
Iron:
1
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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