What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade turkey soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s easy to make and perfect for using up leftover turkey.
- Hearty and nourishing – Loaded with tender turkey, fresh veggies, and savory broth for a satisfying meal.
- Simple and versatile – Customize with your favorite herbs or swap veggies based on what you have on hand.
- Warms you up – A cozy bowl of this soup is like a hug on a chilly day, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.
Recipe
There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade turkey soup, especially after the holidays when you have leftover turkey. This recipe transforms leftover turkey and bones into a rich, flavorful broth packed with tender vegetables and hearty meat.
Ingredients:
- 1 turkey carcass (with some meat remaining)
- 12 cups water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups leftover turkey meat, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup egg noodles or cooked rice (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Place the turkey carcass in a large stockpot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Remove the carcass and strain the broth into a clean pot. Discard bones and any undesirable bits.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the broth. Simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in leftover turkey meat and noodles or rice (if using). Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, roast the turkey bones before making the broth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
Equipment:
- Large stockpot
- Strainer
- Cutting board and knife
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6-8 servings
Nutrition
Turkey soup is a nutritious and comforting dish, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Below is a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving.
Calories: 200
Protein: 18g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
What To Serve With It
Wondering what to pair with your homemade turkey soup? I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping or a simple side salad for freshness. You could also try roasted veggies or a grilled cheese sandwich—they’re cozy, comforting, and just right for rounding out the meal.
Bread Pairings
When it comes to pairing bread with turkey soup, I always go for something that’s hearty enough to soak up the broth but still light enough not to overwhelm the dish. Crusty sourdough is my top pick—its chewy texture holds up beautifully, and it adds a tangy flavor that complements the soup. Warm, fluffy dinner rolls are another favorite, especially when they’re brushed with a little garlic butter. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll serve a slice of cornbread for a sweet, crumbly contrast. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s fresh—the aroma alone makes the meal even cozier.
Side Dish Ideas
Though turkey soup is hearty on its own, I love rounding out the meal with a few tasty sides that make it feel extra special. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, while roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts bring warmth and color. I often serve crusty bread or flaky biscuits for dipping, and sometimes I’ll whip up a batch of cornbread for a touch of sweetness. For a cozy twist, buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta pair perfectly. These sides balance the soup’s richness and create a meal that feels both comforting and complete.
