Best Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe – Deliciously Simple!

Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe – After the culinary marathon of a grand holiday feast, many of us are left with the delightful challenge of what to do with the generous remnants of our celebratory turkey. Fear not, for I am delighted to share a timeless and heartwarming solution that transforms those delicious leftovers into a truly spectacular meal. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl, a culinary tradition reborn from the very essence of resourcefulness and the desire for sustained warmth during the colder months.

Historically, crafting a hearty soup from the holiday turkey carcass and any remaining meat has been a cherished custom in many households, embodying both frugality and an appreciation for deep, savory flavors. It’s a wonderful way to extend the joy of the holiday season, turning what might otherwise go to waste into something truly extraordinary.

Why this Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe captures so many hearts:

People absolutely adore this dish for its incredible depth of flavor, which comes from the rich, homemade broth simmered with the turkey bones and aromatic vegetables. The tender, succulent pieces of turkey, combined with an array of garden-fresh vegetables, create a satisfying texture and a taste that is both familiar and profoundly comforting. It’s remarkably convenient, often a one-pot wonder, and offers a beautiful, nourishing meal that feels both wholesome and incredibly indulgent. This soup isn’t just food; it’s a feeling of home, warmth, and delicious satisfaction.

Ingredients:

• For the Soup Base:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1.5 cups)
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups (2 quarts) good quality turkey or chicken broth, low sodium is preferred
  • 4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces (from your delicious leftovers!)
  • 1 cup egg noodles or your preferred small pasta (orzo, ditalini, alphabet pasta)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor and Texture:
  • 1 cup frozen peas or corn
  • ½ cup white wine (dry, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end
  • A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of dijon mustard for umami depth
  • ¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer soup

Preparing Your Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe: The Foundation

1. Gather and Prepare Your Vegetables:
   Before I even think about turning on the stove, I like to get all my vegetables ready. This is called “mise en place” and it makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable. First, grab your large yellow onion. Carefully peel it and then dice it into small, uniform pieces. I aim for about a quarter-inch dice; this ensures it cooks down nicely and disperses its flavor throughout the soup without being too chunky. Next, take your two medium carrots. Peel them thoroughly – a good peeler makes this task a breeze! Then, dice them into similar small pieces as the onion. Uniformity here isn’t just for looks; it helps everything cook evenly. Finally, prepare your two celery stalks. Wash them well, trim the ends, and again, dice them finely. When all these aromatic vegetables are consistently sized, they release their flavors in harmony, creating a beautiful base for our Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe. Don’t forget to mince your two cloves of garlic; the fresher, the better for that pungent aroma!
2. Sautéing the Aromatics: Building Flavor Layers:
   Now it’s time to build the foundation of our incredibly comforting Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe. Place a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter or olive oil. I often opt for butter here because it imparts a wonderfully rich, nutty flavor that really complements the turkey. Once the butter has melted and is shimmering, or the oil is hot, add your diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. This trio is often referred to as a “mirepoix” and is the backbone of many savory dishes. Stir them gently to coat them in the butter or oil.
   My golden rule for soup: patience with the aromatics. Allow these vegetables to soften slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes. You’re not looking to brown them heavily, but rather to coax out their natural sweetness and tenderness. They should become translucent and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. This crucial step develops a deep, complex flavor that will shine through in every spoonful of your soup.
3. Introducing the Garlic and Herbs:
   Once your mirepoix is tender and fragrant, push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add your minced garlic to the cleared space. Let it cook for just about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully aromatic. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can quickly turn bitter! Immediately after the garlic releases its scent, stir it into the rest of the vegetables. Now, it’s time for our dried herbs: add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and ½ teaspoon of crushed dried rosemary. I like to rub the dried rosemary between my fingers as I add it to release its oils and enhance its flavor. Toss these herbs with the vegetables for another minute, allowing their aromas to bloom in the warmth of the pot. This little bit of toasting really intensifies their herbaceous notes, which is vital for a robust Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe.

Simmering Your Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe to Perfection:

4. Adding the Broth and Turkey:
   Pour in your 8 cups (2 quarts) of turkey or chicken broth. If you have homemade turkey broth from the holiday, this is absolutely the time to use it – it will elevate your Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe to an extraordinary level of flavor! If not, a good quality store-bought low-sodium broth works perfectly. Next, add your 4 cups of cooked turkey. I find that a mix of shredded white meat and diced dark meat adds wonderful texture and flavor complexity. Stir everything together gently. At this point, I also like to add one bay leaf to the pot. The bay leaf contributes a subtle, almost peppery depth that really rounds out the savory notes of the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
5. The Simmer and Savor Phase:
   Once the soup reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. This is where the magic truly happens for your Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe. I recommend simmering for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together, giving the turkey and vegetables time to fully infuse the broth. The longer it simmers, the more depth and character your soup will develop. During this time, the house will start to smell absolutely amazing, a comforting aroma that truly embodies a hearty home-cooked meal.
   If you’re using any of the optional liquid add-ins like ½ cup of white wine, this is the perfect time to introduce it. The alcohol will cook off during the simmer, leaving behind a lovely acidity and complexity that brightens the whole soup.
6. Cooking the Noodles:
   After your soup has had a good simmer and the flavors are well-developed, it’s time to add the noodles. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup back to a gentle boil. Add your 1 cup of egg noodles or small pasta. I prefer egg noodles for their tender texture and quick cooking time, but orzo, ditalini, or even alphabet pasta work beautifully if you’re looking to add a whimsical touch, especially for kids! Cook the noodles according to the package directions, which is usually about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot. A little tip: if you anticipate having leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to individual bowls just before serving. This prevents them from becoming overly soft and mushy in the stored soup, ensuring the best texture for every serving of your Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe.

The Finishing Touches and Serving Your Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe:

7. Final Seasoning and Optional Enhancements:
   Once the noodles are tender, remove the bay leaf from the pot – its job is done! Now, it’s time to taste and adjust the seasoning. This is a very personal step, so take your time. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Remember, if you used a low-sodium broth, you’ll likely need to add more salt. I always start with a small pinch and add more as needed until the flavor pops.
   This is also the moment to consider any other optional add-ins. If I’m craving a little extra richness, I’ll stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for a velvety texture. For a hint of bright acidity that really lifts all the flavors, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice is wonderful. And for an extra layer of savory umami, a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of dijon mustard can be surprisingly effective without changing the core flavor profile. If you’re adding frozen peas or corn, stir them in now and let them heat through for just 2-3 minutes; they cook very quickly and add a lovely pop of color and sweetness.
8. The Grand Finale: Garnish and Serve:
   Just before serving your magnificent Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe, stir in your ¼ cup of fresh chopped parsley. The fresh herbs add a vibrant color and a burst of fresh flavor that truly elevates the soup. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. I love to serve this soup with some crusty bread for dipping, or even a grilled cheese sandwich on the side – it’s a match made in heaven!
   A friendly reminder: This Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is not just incredibly delicious; it’s also incredibly comforting, especially on a chilly day. It’s a wonderful way to extend the enjoyment of your holiday turkey and warm the soul.
   Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!
   Enjoy every heartwarming spoonful of your homemade Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe. It’s truly a labor of love that brings so much warmth and satisfaction to the table. This recipe is not just about using up leftovers; it’s about transforming them into something new and equally delicious, a comforting bowl that nourishes both body and spirit.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the end of our culinary journey with what I truly believe is one of the most heartwarming and resourceful recipes you’ll ever add to your repertoire. This isn’t just a simple dish; it’s a testament to the idea that some of the best flavors come from careful planning and a little bit of love, transforming humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary. I sincerely hope you’re feeling inspired to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe a prominent spot on your post-holiday menu, or frankly, any time you find yourself with a beautiful turkey carcass and some delicious meat to spare.

What makes this particular soup a non-negotiable must-try, in my humble opinion, is its unparalleled ability to deliver deep, comforting flavors with surprisingly little fuss. The secret lies in that glorious homemade broth, simmered slowly to extract every ounce of richness from the turkey bones, creating a foundation that is both nourishing and profoundly satisfying. It’s the kind of soup that wraps around you like a warm blanket on a chilly evening, chasing away the cold and filling your home with an aroma that speaks of pure comfort and home-cooked goodness. Beyond its incredible taste, it’s also an incredibly smart way to ensure that absolutely nothing goes to waste after a festive meal, turning what might otherwise be discarded into a star dish in its own right. It’s hearty enough to be a meal in itself, yet light enough not to feel heavy, striking that perfect balance we all crave.

Now, let’s talk about enjoying this masterpiece. While it’s utterly divine on its own, served piping hot in a cozy bowl, I have a few suggestions to elevate your experience even further. For a truly classic pairing, a thick slice of crusty sourdough bread, still warm from the oven and slathered with butter, is simply perfection for soaking up every last drop of that magnificent broth. Alternatively, a handful of crispy croutons, perhaps homemade with a hint of garlic and herbs, can add a delightful textural contrast. Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs as a garnish; a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley, chives, or even a sprig of fresh thyme just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a touch of elegance. For those who love a bit of a kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in can add a wonderful warmth.

But the beauty of soup, especially one this versatile, lies in its adaptability. This recipe is a fantastic starting point, but feel free to make it your own! For variations, consider enhancing the vegetable medley. You could add diced zucchini, green beans, or even some sweet corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra freshness and color. If you’re looking to make it even heartier, a cup of cooked pasta like ditalini or orzo, or even some wild rice or barley, can be stirred in towards the end to thicken it up and add more substance. For a creamy twist, swirl in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or a splash of unsweetened coconut milk right before serving – it adds a luscious richness without overwhelming the delicate turkey flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end can also brighten all the flavors beautifully, offering a zesty counterpoint.

I genuinely encourage each and every one of you to set aside some time and experience the magic of this soup firsthand. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create, to nourish, and to enjoy the simple pleasures of a homemade meal. Don’t be shy about experimenting with the ingredients you have on hand – that’s often where the most delightful discoveries are made! Once you’ve made it your own, please, please, please come back and share your experience. I am always so incredibly excited to hear about your culinary adventures, your clever substitutions, and how this recipe brought warmth and happiness to your kitchen. What variations did you try? What did your family think? Your feedback and stories inspire me and our entire cooking community, so let’s keep the conversation going. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious bowl of homemade goodness!

Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe

A delicious, simple, and comforting recipe for leftover turkey soup. This recipe transforms holiday remnants into a light, nourishing, and warm meal, perfect for a break from rich foods. It’s easily adaptable for keto and gluten-free diets by skipping the noodles.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
50 Minutes

Total Time
10 Minutes

Servings
6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups (2 quarts) turkey or chicken broth, low sodium
• 4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 1 cup egg noodles or small pasta (optional for keto/GF)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried rosemary, crushed
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
• ½ cup extra broth or non-alcoholic white wine alternative (optional)
• Fresh lemon juice (optional)
• Dash of Worcestershire sauce or dijon mustard (optional)
• ¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Dice onion, carrots, and celery finely. Mince garlic.
2. Step 2
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
3. Step 3
   Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until aromatic. Immediately add dried thyme and crushed rosemary, cooking for another minute to bloom the herbs.
4. Step 4
   Pour in turkey or chicken broth, add cooked turkey, and one bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. If desired, add optional extra broth or non-alcoholic white wine alternative at this stage.
5. Step 5
   Increase heat slightly to bring the soup back to a gentle boil. Add egg noodles or small pasta and cook according to package directions, typically 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. (For best texture in leftovers, consider cooking noodles separately and adding to individual bowls).
6. Step 6
   Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in any optional additions like frozen peas or corn, heavy cream or half-and-half, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce/dijon mustard.
7. Step 7
   Stir in fresh chopped parsley just before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Enjoy. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.