Ultimate Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe

After the holiday feast, you often have a dilemma: what to do with all that leftover turkey? This incredible turkey soup recipe offers the perfect solution! Transform your holiday remnants into a comforting, hearty meal that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to make. This simple, step-by-step guide will help you create a rich, flavorful broth and a satisfying soup that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Turkey Soup Recipe

This isn’t just any ordinary soup; it’s a labor of love that maximizes your holiday efforts.

• Zero Waste: It’s the perfect way to utilize your leftover turkey carcass and any bits of meat, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Beyond personal savings, minimizing food waste contributes to significant environmental and economic advantages worldwide, as detailed by the global benefits of reducing food waste.
• Incredibly Flavorful: Making your own stock from scratch creates a depth of flavor that store-bought versions simply can’t match for this turkey soup.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Warm, savory, and packed with tender vegetables, it’s the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening.
• Customizable Goodness: Easily adapt it with your favorite vegetables, noodles, or herbs to suit your family’s taste.
• Hearty & Nourishing: This homemade turkey soup provides a fulfilling and wholesome meal, packed with nutrients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to craft your flavorful turkey soup. Starting with a rich homemade stock makes all the difference!

For the Rich Turkey Stock:

• 1 turkey carcass, leftover from carving a whole turkey, including any leftover drippings or giblets (not the liver) if you have them
• Cold water to cover
• 1 medium to large yellow onion, quartered or cut into thick wedges
• 1 to 2 carrots, roughly chopped (can include tops)
• 1 celery rib (roughly chopped) and some celery tops
• Several sprigs of fresh parsley
• 1 to 2 sprigs of thyme, or a teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 5 to 10 peppercorns
• Salt
• Pepper

For the Hearty Turkey Soup:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• A couple cloves garlic, minced
• 3 to 4 quarts of the turkey stock you just made
• A few sprigs of fresh parsley, leaves chopped (about 2 to 4 Tbsp)
• 2 teaspoons of poultry seasoning (more to taste) or a combination of ground sage, thyme, marjoram, and/or a bouillon cube
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 to 8 ounces of egg noodles OR 1/2 to 1 cup dry rice (optional, skip egg noodles for gluten-free version)
• 2 to 4 cups of leftover chopped or shredded cooked turkey meat (don’t use any of the meat from making the stock, the goodness will have been cooked out of it by then)

Notes & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your turkey soup! For noodles, egg noodles are classic, but orzo, ditalini, or even rice are excellent alternatives. If you’re gluten-free, omit the noodles entirely or use a gluten-free pasta. Add more vegetables like diced potatoes, peas, or corn during the simmering stage. For herbs, dried herbs work well if you don’t have fresh; use about half the amount.

Essential Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen tools for this homemade turkey soup.

• Large stockpot (8-12 quart) for making the stock and soup.
• Fine mesh sieve or strainer to separate solids from your rich broth.
• Cutting board and a sharp knife for prepping vegetables.
• Ladle for serving, and your favorite serving bowls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a flavorful turkey soup from scratch is simpler than you think. Follow these clear steps to create a wonderfully comforting meal.

How to Make Turkey Stock from Scratch

1. Prepare the Carcass: Save the turkey meat for later. Place the turkey carcass, neck (if you have it), leftover skin, and bones into a large stock pot (at least 8 to 12 quarts depending on the turkey’s size).
2. Add Aromatics: Cover the carcass with cold water by an inch. Add any drippings that weren’t used for gravy and any giblets (not the liver) if you have them. Add thickly sliced onion, chopped carrots, celery, celery tops, parsley, thyme, a bay leaf, and some peppercorns to the pot.
3. Simmer Gently: Bring the pot to a boil on high heat, then immediately lower the heat to maintain a bare simmer.
4. Skim and Season: As it simmers, skim off any foamy “crud” that may float to the surface. Add about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper, adjusting for the turkey’s size.
5. Long Simmer: Simmer the pot partially uncovered for 4 hours, continuing to skim any foam.
6. Strain the Stock: After simmering, remove the bones and vegetables from the pot. Then, strain the stock through a fine mesh sieve or strainer into a clean bowl or container.
7. Optional Reduction: If making stock for future use, you might reduce it by cooking it longer, uncovered, to concentrate the flavors. You can then add water when using it in recipes.

Assembling Your Delicious Turkey Soup

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat butter or olive oil (or rendered turkey fat from the stock) in a large clean pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped carrots, onions, and celery. Cook until the onions soften, about 10 minutes.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one minute more, just until fragrant.
3. Pour in Stock: Pour the prepared turkey stock into the pot.
4. Season the Soup: Add the chopped parsley, poultry seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Cook Noodles/Rice: If adding egg noodles, stir them in and cook until al dente, about 4 minutes. If using rice, add it and cook for about 15 minutes, or until tender.
6. Warm Turkey: Take the remaining turkey meat you reserved earlier, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and add it to the soup. Cook for just one more minute to warm the turkey through.
7. Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Your comforting homemade turkey soup is ready!

Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Soup

Achieve the most flavorful and clear turkey soup with these simple tips.

• Skim Diligently: Thoroughly skim the foam from your stock during the initial simmer for a clearer, cleaner-tasting broth.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta/Rice: Add noodles or rice only until they’re al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Add Turkey Last: Stir in the cooked turkey meat just before serving; cooking it too long can make it dry or tough.
• Season Generously: Taste and adjust your seasoning often. A well-seasoned soup is always the most delicious.
• Rest for Flavor: Let the turkey soup rest for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, & Variations

This versatile leftover turkey soup offers many ways to enjoy it.

Serving Ideas

Serve your comforting turkey soup hot with a side of crusty bread or crispy crackers for dipping. Garnish individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper for extra visual appeal and freshness.

Storage & Freezing

For optimal safety and freshness, it’s important to follow proper food handling practices. Refer to USDA guidelines for storing cooked turkey to ensure your leftovers are safe. Store leftover turkey soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. You can freeze the stock and the assembled soup separately, or together. Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Recipe Variations

• Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrition and flavor with frozen peas, corn, diced potatoes, or a handful of fresh spinach added during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle warmth if you like a little heat.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of softened cream cheese at the end.
• Herb Alternatives: Experiment with different herbs like sage, rosemary, or marjoram to create varied flavor profiles.

Nutritional Information

This homemade turkey soup is a nutritious and satisfying meal, especially when made with a homemade stock that’s rich in minerals. It’s an excellent source of protein from the turkey, along with vitamins and fiber from the various vegetables. This is a wholesome, balanced dish perfect for recovery or a cold day.

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary significantly based on ingredients used, exact quantities, and serving sizes. This estimate does not include bread or crackers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use store-bought stock?

Yes, you can use store-bought chicken or turkey stock if you’re short on time. Aim for a low-sodium option and adjust seasoning as needed. While convenient, homemade stock offers unparalleled depth of flavor for your turkey soup.

What if I don’t have a turkey carcass?

You can still make a delicious turkey soup! Use leftover cooked turkey meat and substitute the homemade stock step with 3-4 quarts of good quality store-bought chicken or turkey broth.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add diced potatoes, green beans, peas, corn, or even a handful of fresh spinach in the last few minutes of cooking.

How long does turkey soup last?

Stored in an airtight container, your delicious turkey soup will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, easily! Simply omit the egg noodles or substitute them with a gluten-free pasta alternative or rice. Ensure your stock and any seasonings are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

There’s truly nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade turkey soup to bring comfort and joy. This recipe transforms your holiday leftovers into a rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the goodness of your turkey long after the feast. So go ahead, give this easy recipe a try, and savor every delicious spoonful.

Ultimate Leftover Turkey Soup

Turn your holiday leftovers into a rich, hearty, and comforting turkey soup with homemade stock, fresh vegetables, and tender turkey. It's a zero-waste, nourishing meal perfect for chilly days.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 50 minutes mins

Servings: 10 bowls

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Leftovers

Calories: 310

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 turkey carcass with drippings and giblets (not liver)
• cold water to cover
• 1 yellow onion, quartered
• 1–2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 1 celery rib with tops, roughly chopped
• several sprigs fresh parsley
• 1–2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 bay leaf
• 5–10 peppercorns
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp butter (or turkey fat)
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3–4 quarts homemade turkey stock
• 2–4 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tsp poultry seasoning (or sage, thyme, marjoram blend)
• 4–8 oz egg noodles OR 1/2–1 cup rice (optional)
• 2–4 cups leftover cooked turkey meat, shredded or chopped

Equipment

• Large stockpot
• fine mesh sieve or strainer
• Cutting Board
• Sharp knife
• Ladle

Method

 

1. Place turkey carcass, drippings, and giblets (not liver) in a large stock pot. Cover with cold water by 1 inch.
2. Add onion, carrots, celery, parsley, thyme, bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a bare simmer.
3. Simmer partially covered for 4 hours, skimming foam from the surface as needed.
4. Strain stock into a clean container through a fine mesh sieve. Discard solids.
5. In a clean pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped carrots, onions, and celery. Cook until onions soften, about 10 minutes.
6. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
7. Pour in homemade turkey stock. Add parsley, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
8. Add noodles or rice if using. Simmer until tender (about 4 minutes for noodles, 15 minutes for rice).
9. Add reserved cooked turkey meat. Simmer for 1 minute until warmed through.
10. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Let rest a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Customize with extra vegetables like peas, potatoes, or spinach. For gluten-free, skip noodles or use gluten-free pasta. Add cream or red pepper flakes for variations. Make stock and soup ahead for easy meals.

Taya Bennett

Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com