Introduction:
When the holidays wind down and you’re left with extra turkey, this Turkey Soup is the perfect go-to recipe! Made from scratch with leftover turkey, flavorful broth, and nutritious vegetables, it’s a hearty, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for cold winter days. Whether you add pasta, rice, or potatoes, this soup will warm you up while ensuring no leftovers go to waste. It’s also an ideal freezer meal for busy weeknights!
Ingredients for Turkey Soup
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (or homemade stock)
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (corn, peas, or green beans)
- 1 cup cooked pasta, rice, or diced potatoes (optional)
How to Make Turkey Soup
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Add Turkey: Stir in the shredded turkey and let it simmer for another 20 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Optional Add-ins: If you want to add pasta, rice, or potatoes, cook them separately and add them to the serving bowls. For additional vegetables, add the frozen veggies during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy with crusty bread for dipping!
Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Soup
- Use Homemade Stock: If you have leftover turkey bones, simmer them to make a rich, homemade stock for even more flavor.
- Pasta and Rice: To avoid mushy pasta or rice, always cook them separately and add them to individual bowls before ladling the soup over them.
- Adding Flavor: A Parmesan rind can be added to the broth while it simmers for added depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Corn, peas, green beans, or spinach are great choices!
- Storing Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully! Just be sure to store the pasta, rice, or potatoes separately to avoid sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Turkey Soup?
Absolutely! Turkey soup freezes very well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the soup without pasta, rice, or potatoes and add those fresh when reheating.
What can I serve with Turkey Soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a crusty loaf of No Knead Bread, crackers, or a light salad.
How long can I store Turkey Soup in the fridge?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat it gently on the stove for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this with chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! You can easily substitute leftover chicken for turkey in this recipe.
Conclusion
Turkey Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that helps you make the most of your holiday leftovers while warming you from the inside out. Whether you add pasta, rice, or keep it simple with vegetables, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. With the ease of making it from scratch and the option to customize, you can enjoy this comforting meal all winter long! Be sure to try it with a slice of fresh bread for dipping and enjoy the savory flavors of the season.