Wondering what to do with all that leftover turkey? Transform it into a heartwarming soup that’s as easy as it is delicious. This recipe is your ticket to a cozy meal that celebrates the flavors of Thanksgiving all over again.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s a genius way to repurpose leftover turkey into something entirely new and exciting.
- The broth is rich and flavorful, thanks to a combination of turkey bones and aromatic vegetables.
- It’s customizable with whatever veggies or noodles you have on hand, making it a versatile dish for any palate.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day.
- A one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
- 1 turkey carcass (for broth)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large stockpot
- Strainer
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Broth
Place the turkey carcass in a large stockpot and cover with 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 2 hours, skimming off any foam that rises to the top. This slow simmer extracts all the delicious flavors from the bones, creating a rich base for your soup.
Step 2: Strain and Sauté
Remove the carcass from the pot and strain the broth to remove any small bones or bits. In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This builds a flavor foundation that’ll make your soup unforgettable.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the strained broth to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add the shredded turkey, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Noodles (Optional)
If you’re using egg noodles, add them now and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook and become mushy.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot, maybe with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer broth, roast the turkey carcass in the oven at 400°F for about 30 minutes before adding it to the pot. This caramelizes the bones and adds depth to the broth. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought turkey or chicken broth, but the homemade version is worth the effort. To make the soup more substantial, add a can of white beans or some diced potatoes during the simmering step. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
Recipe Variations
- For a Mexican twist, add some chopped green chiles, cumin, and a squeeze of lime juice. Top with avocado and tortilla strips.
- Turn it into a creamy mushroom turkey soup by sautéing mushrooms with the vegetables and adding a cup of cream at the end.
- Make it spicy with a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
- For a low-carb version, skip the noodles and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
- Add a Parmesan rind to the broth as it simmers for an umami boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for a quick and easy meal.
What if I don’t have a turkey carcass?
No worries! You can use store-bought turkey or chicken broth instead. You’ll still get a delicious soup, though it might lack some of the depth of flavor that the homemade broth provides.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Combine all the ingredients except the noodles in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles in the last 30 minutes if using.
Summary
This turkey leftover soup is a comforting, flavorful way to give your Thanksgiving leftovers a second life. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to become a post-holiday tradition.