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If you find yourself with a bit of turkey leftover and craving something cozy and nourishing, this Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a comforting bowl of warmth packed with tender turkey, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth that comes together quickly. Whether it’s post-holiday cleanup or just making good use of fridge finds, this soup turns humble ingredients into a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing something special to the table—from the soft sweetness of carrots and celery to the hearty texture of baby potatoes and turkey. Together, they create a well-rounded, flavorful soup that feels both fresh and familiar.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Builds a savory base with its gentle sweetness when cooked down.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a punch of aroma and depth to the broth.
- 4 sticks celery (chopped): Adds a natural crunch and fresh, green flavor.
- 3 large carrots (peeled & sliced): Infuse a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (cut into halves): Provide satisfying texture and heartiness.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The soul of the soup, lending body and warmth.
- 2 cups water: Balances the broth for the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lifts the flavor with earthy brightness.
- 2 cups cooked turkey meat (or more, to taste): The star ingredient, packed with protein and that beloved leftover goodness.
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy without overpowering the flavors.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where the flavor foundation is built, as the caramelized onions bring richness and a touch of sweetness to your soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma
Next, add the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant—this happens quickly, in about 30 seconds. Garlic’s warmth and depth elevate every spoonful, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Bring Vegetables and Broth Together
Now, it’s time for the heartier veggies. Add celery, carrots, and baby potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth and water. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then raise the heat to high so the soup comes to a gentle boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer partially covered for around 10 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Introduce the Turkey
Once your vegetables are tender, stir in the leftover turkey meat. Let the soup simmer for about 10 more minutes so the turkey warms through, soaking up all those delicious herbal notes and broth flavors.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Seasoning
To polish off this comforting dish, stir in the heavy cream for a gorgeous, velvety touch. Taste the soup, then adjust with salt and pepper until it feels perfectly seasoned just for you. This final step makes your Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe truly shine.
How to Serve Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme add a pop of color and a bright flavor lift that compliments the creamy base. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also create a lovely savory finish, melting gently atop each bowl of soup.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to mop up every last drop of broth. For a lighter bite, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming touch, serve this soup in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bread bowls when entertaining. You can also top each bowl with crispy turkey skin or toasted nuts to add texture and visual interest that guests will adore!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it a perfect batch-cook meal. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months for convenient, ready-to-go comfort food anytime.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s become too thick. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from separating and preserve the smooth texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bones or carcass instead of cooked meat?
Absolutely! Simmering turkey bones or a carcass first can make an even richer broth, which you can then strain before adding fresh vegetables and meat. It’s a great way to maximize flavor and reduce waste.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Definitely. You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to keep the soup creamy without dairy. Just remember this will slightly change the flavor profile.
What vegetables can I substitute or add?
Feel free to get creative! Green beans, peas, corn, or even kale can be delicious additions or swaps that bring more color and nutrition to your soup.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, adding cream near the end of cooking.
How can I thicken the soup if I want it heartier?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or stir in a slurry made of cornstarch and cold water during the last few minutes of cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. It transforms simple ingredients and leftover turkey into a nourishing bowl of comfort and satisfaction. I encourage you to give it a try—once you do, I bet it will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen too!
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Print
Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Leftover Turkey Soup recipe is a comforting and hearty way to use up turkey leftovers. Packed with fresh vegetables and tender turkey meat, this soup combines aromatic sautéed onions and garlic with baby potatoes, celery, carrots, and a creamy finish for a satisfying meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 sticks celery, chopped
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, cut into halves
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Protein and Finish
- 2 cups cooked turkey meat (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns lightly browned and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This develops a rich flavor base for the soup.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add Vegetables and Liquids: Stir in the chopped celery, sliced carrots, halved baby potatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, water, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape and simmer the soup for 10 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Turkey and Continue Simmering: Add the cooked turkey meat to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes to heat the turkey through and blend the flavors.
- Finish with Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy or whipping cream to add richness and smoothness to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting turkey soup.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or omit it altogether.
- You can use either chicken or vegetable broth depending on preference or dietary restrictions.
- If preferred, shredded turkey breast or dark meat can be used based on what’s available.
- To enhance flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end of cooking.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
