Turkey Soup

Turkey Soup is a comforting and delicious way to use up leftover turkey, especially after holidays like Thanksgiving. This warm and hearty soup is filled with tender turkey, vegetables, and flavorful broth, making it a perfect meal for chilly days. Whether you prefer a classic broth-based soup or a creamy twist, this recipe is versatile and easy to make. It’s a great way to reduce waste and enjoy a nourishing meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Great use for leftovers: Perfect for leftover turkey and vegetables.
• Easy and economical: A budget-friendly meal that feeds a crowd.
• Healthy and hearty: Packed with protein and vegetables.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies, herbs, and grains.
• Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

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

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups turkey or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup potatoes, diced (optional)
• 1 cup cooked rice, noodles, or barley (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Turkey: Pour in the turkey or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the shredded turkey and reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Add Potatoes (Optional): If using potatoes, add them to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes until tender.
5. Add Grains (Optional): Stir in cooked rice, noodles, or barley if desired. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
6. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Turkey Soup: Add 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy version.
• Mexican-Style: Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cumin and chili powder.
• Italian Twist: Add a can of diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and small pasta like orzo or ditalini.
• Turkey and Wild Rice Soup: Use wild rice instead of regular rice or pasta for a hearty, earthy flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets and skip the grains.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: Freeze soup (without pasta or rice to avoid mushiness) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked turkey?

Yes, you can. Add diced raw turkey to the broth and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How do I prevent the noodles or rice from getting mushy?

Cook the noodles or rice separately and add them to the soup just before serving.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, add all ingredients except cooked rice or noodles and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in cooked grains just before serving.

What vegetables can I add to turkey soup?

Green beans, peas, corn, spinach, or zucchini all make great additions to this soup.

Can I use turkey bones to make broth for this soup?

Absolutely! Simmer turkey bones with water, onion, carrots, celery, and herbs for a few hours to make a rich, homemade broth.

How do I thicken turkey soup?

For a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup. You can also blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.

Can I use store-bought broth?

Yes, low-sodium chicken or turkey broth works well in this recipe.

What herbs work best in turkey soup?

Thyme, parsley, rosemary, and bay leaves add great flavor. Fresh or dried herbs can be used.

Is turkey soup healthy?

Yes, it’s a nutritious meal filled with protein, vitamins, and minerals. For a lighter option, skip the cream and add more vegetables.

Can I add beans to turkey soup?

Yes, white beans or chickpeas add extra protein and fiber to the soup.

Conclusion

Turkey Soup is a warm and comforting dish that transforms leftover turkey into a flavorful, nourishing meal. With tender meat, fresh vegetables, and savory broth, this soup is perfect for cozying up on chilly days. It’s easy to make, versatile, and ideal for meal prep or freezing for later. Whether you prefer a classic broth-based soup or a creamy variation, this recipe offers endless possibilities. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade turkey soup!

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