turkey soup

A warm, hearty, and nourishing soup made with leftover turkey, fresh vegetables, and comforting herbs—perfect after the holidays or anytime you crave a cozy bowl.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 6–8

Introduction

There’s nothing more comforting than a big bowl of homemade turkey soup—especially after a big holiday feast. Whether you’re using leftover Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey, this soup turns scraps into something soul-warming and delicious.

It’s loaded with tender shredded turkey, aromatic herbs, and classic veggies like carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes or noodles. It’s healthy, easy to make, and even freezer-friendly.

This recipe is the perfect way to stretch your turkey leftovers into a completely new meal—ideal for cold weather, sick days, or meal prep.

 Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 stalks celery, sliced

• 1 medium potato, diced (or 1½ cups egg noodles/rice)

• 3 cups shredded cooked turkey

• 8 cups chicken or turkey broth

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon dried parsley

• 1 bay leaf

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning

• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn (add at the end)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

 Tools You’ll Need

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven

• Cutting board & knife

• Wooden spoon

• Ladle

• Optional: Fine mesh strainer if making homemade broth

 How to Make Turkey Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the garlic and cook another 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour in the broth, and add:

   • Salt, pepper

   • Thyme, parsley

   • Bay leaf

2. Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

 If using uncooked rice or potatoes, add them at this step so they cook in the broth.

Step 3: Add Turkey and Simmer

1. Stir in the shredded turkey and diced potatoes (if using).

2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have blended.

 If you’re using noodles or rice, add them in the last 10–12 minutes so they don’t overcook.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf.

2. Taste and adjust seasoning (add more salt, pepper, herbs, or lemon juice).

3. Stir in frozen peas or corn, if using, and let them heat through for 2–3 minutes.

4. Ladle into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.

 Storage & Reheating

 If freezing, avoid adding pasta until you reheat—it gets mushy when frozen.

 Nutrition (Per 1½ cup Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 20g

• Fat: 8g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 500mg

Values will vary based on broth and added ingredients.

 Variations

 Turkey Noodle Soup

Swap potatoes for egg noodles and add in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

 Turkey and Rice Soup

Use white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice for a heartier version.

 Turkey and Veggie Soup

Add extra veggies like zucchini, green beans, spinach, or kale.

 Creamy Turkey Soup

Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a spoon of sour cream at the end for a rich, creamy texture.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with raw turkey?

Yes, but cook the diced raw turkey first in the pot with a little oil, then remove and proceed with the veggies. Add it back in before simmering the soup.

What kind of broth is best?

Homemade turkey broth is amazing if you have it, but chicken broth or store-bought turkey stock works great too.

How do I keep noodles from getting mushy?

Add noodles toward the end of cooking, and don’t overcook. If freezing, add noodles after reheating.

Can I use the turkey carcass to make broth?

Yes! Simmer the carcass with water, onion, garlic, herbs, and celery for 2–3 hours, then strain for a flavorful homemade broth.

 Final Thoughts

Turkey Soup is the kind of meal that makes you feel instantly cozy and cared for. Whether you’re recovering from a feast or just need a comforting bowl of goodness, this easy, flavorful recipe has everything you need.

It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and endlessly customizable. Once you try it, you’ll be making it long after the holidays are over.