If you’re still wondering what to do with your leftover turkey, then this hearty turkey soup is just right for you. The best part is that this soup requires the kind of ingredients that you might already have in your refrigerator, such as carrots, celery, and potatoes, and simple aromatics like garlic and thyme. This recipe is sure to warm you up on a chilly day and it’s easy to make!

Additionally, you can add cooked rice or your favorite noodles to make this soup even heartier and filling. This comforting soup is not only perfect for a family meal at home but also great for feeding a crowd during the holiday season. In fact, it’s no fuss and easy to put together.

First, you start by sautéing the onions and garlic. Then, you add the broth and vegetables to the pot and let it simmer until tender. The key is to let the flavors of the ingredients meld together to create a robust and satisfying meal. Not to mention, you’ll be using your leftover turkey in a delicious and nutritious way.

In conclusion, this turkey soup recipe is a fantastic option for a cozy meal or event. The steps are easy, and you’ll enjoy the comfort and warmth that it brings to you and your guests. So, go ahead and try this recipe out and enjoy the flavors of the holiday season long after the event is over.

Turkey Soup Recipe

In need of a cozy and inviting meal? Look no further than this delicious Turkey Soup Recipe! Packed with savory flavors, this recipe is perfect for cold winter nights, or for using up leftover Thanksgiving turkey. Follow these simple steps to create a wholesome and comforting dish that will leave you feeling satisfied.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Lunch, Meal Prep

Cuisine American, International

Servings4 servings

Calories (per serving)449.59 kcal

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion chopped
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 2 cups (201.7 g) cooked turkey chopped
• 4 cups (953.6 g) chicken broth
• 1 cup (129.8 g) carrots chopped
• 1 cup (102.5 g) celery chopped
• 1 cup (213 g) potatoes chopped
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup (160.3 g) cooked rice

Instructions

 

• Heat olive oil in a pot
• Sauté onions and garlic
• Add cooked turkey, broth, carrots, celery, potatoes, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf
• Bring to a boil and then simmer
• Cook until vegetables are tender
• If desired, add cooked rice or noodles and serve.

Notes

1. Use quality ingredients: When making soup, it's important to use high-quality ingredients such as fresh vegetables and homemade broth, if possible. This will enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup.

2. Cut the vegetables evenly: Cut the vegetables evenly in size to ensure they cook evenly. This will also make the soup look more attractive and uniform.

3. Sauté the onions and garlic: Sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the other ingredients adds depth of flavor to the soup.

4. Add herbs and spices: Dried herbs and spices such as parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper add flavor to the soup. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices to see what works for your taste buds.

5. Simmer the soup: Allow the soup to simmer for at least an hour to infuse all the flavors together. The longer you let it simmer, the better the flavors will be.

6. Remove the bay leaf: Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving the soup as it can be a choking hazard.

7. Garnish with fresh herbs: Garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and enhance the flavor.

8. Serve with bread or crackers: Turkey soup pairs well with bread or crackers, which can be used to dip into the soup or paired with a sandwich.

9. Store leftovers properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 449.59kcalCarbohydrates: 37.96gProtein: 30.95gFat: 18.45gSaturated Fat: 4.16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.17gMonounsaturated Fat: 5.82gCholesterol: 85.7mgSodium: 229.34mgPotassium: 706.38mgFiber: 3.37gSugar: 3.88gVitamin A: 5667.44IUVitamin B1: 0.19mgVitamin B2: 0.16mgVitamin B3: 5.31mgVitamin B5: 0.61mgVitamin B6: 0.36mgVitamin B12: 0.24µgVitamin C: 17.79mgVitamin E: 1.36mgVitamin K: 28.37µgCalcium: 79.43mgCopper: 0.28mgFolate: 67.29µgIron: 3.7mgManganese: 0.52mgMagnesium: 33.41mgPhosphorus: 156.31mgSelenium: 5.25µgZinc: 0.87mgNet Carbohydrates: 34.59g

Read more nutritional information values.

Data source: USDA

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Storage Tips

This recipe can last in the fridge for up to 5 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months. To store, let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate or freeze immediately.

To freeze, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. In the fridge, the soup can be stored in a covered container.

To defrost, take the soup out of the freezer and place it in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can defrost it in the microwave on a low setting. Once defrosted, reheat it in the microwave, on the stove or in the oven until heated through.

When reheating, add cooked rice or noodles (if using) as they can go soggy if stored in the soup. Also, remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. If the soup has thickened, you can add more broth or water to thin it out.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian version – Substitute turkey with vegetables like carrots, celery, mushrooms, onions, and potatoes to create a hearty and flavorful soup that is also suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

2. Creamy Turkey Soup – Add a touch of cream or milk to the soup and blend it to create a rich and smooth texture. This makes the soup more comforting and satisfying, especially on cold winter nights.

3. Mexican-style soup – Adding black beans, tomatoes, cumin, and chili powder creates a spicy and flavorful turkey soup. You can garnish it with avocado, cilantro, and tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.

4. Lemon and Herb Turkey Soup – Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage along with zesty lemon juice to create a refreshing and herbaceous soup that is perfect for spring and summer months.

5. Asian-inspired soup – Use soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and scallions to create a savory and aromatic broth that is inspired by Asian cuisine. Add noodles or rice for a more filling meal.

6. Italian-style soup – Use spaghetti, tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and basil to create an Italian-inspired turkey soup. It is comforting, flavorful, and easy to make.

7. Coconut Curry Turkey Soup – Add coconut milk, curry powder, and vegetables to create an exotic and creamy turkey soup that is perfect for curry lovers. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

8. Potato and Turkey soup – Add potatoes, carrots, and celery along with turkey to create a hearty and filling soup that is perfect for lunch and dinner. You can also add barley, quinoa, or lentils to add extra protein and fiber.

What To Serve With

1. Crusty bread or dinner rolls to dip into the soup
2. Salad with a light vinaigrette dressing
3. Roasted vegetables as a side dish
4. Cheese and crackers as a starter
5. Fruit salad or a fruit platter for dessert.

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