The Best Homemade Turkey Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade turkey soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for using up leftovers or cozying up on a chilly day. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with simple steps and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The rich, savory broth is packed with tender turkey, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making every spoonful a delight. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to swap veggies or add noodles for a fun twist. Best of all, it’s a meal that tastes even better the next day, making it a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Recipe
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade turkey soup, especially when made with leftover turkey from a holiday feast. This hearty and wholesome recipe is packed with flavor and easy to prepare, making it a perfect way to use up leftover turkey. Below is the complete recipe to guide you through the process.
Ingredients:
1 leftover turkey carcass, meat picked off and reserved
8 cups water
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup egg noodles (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Place the turkey carcass in a large pot and add 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 the bones and any solids.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper to the broth. Simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- If using egg noodles, add them to the pot and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in the reserved turkey meat and fresh parsley. Heat through and serve warm.
Notes:
For a thicker soup, you can add 1 tablespoon of flour mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water during the simmering process. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Equipment:
Large pot, strainer, cutting board, knife, measuring spoons
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6-8
Nutrition
This homemade turkey soup is a nutritious and hearty dish. It provides essential nutrients in a delicious way.
| Nutritions | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 20g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade turkey soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping, and it’s even better when the bread’s got a golden, buttery crust. A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy dressing adds a nice, light balance to the meal, too. These sides make the soup feel like a complete, comforting dinner.
Crusty Bread Pairings
Nothing completes a bowl of homemade turkey soup quite like a slice of crusty bread. I love pairing it with a warm slice of garlic bread—it’s buttery, flavorful, and perfect for dipping into the rich broth. If I’m feeling a bit fancy, I go for a sourdough loaf. Its tangy flavor and chewy texture add a nice contrast to the soup’s heartiness. I’ll sometimes toast it lightly for extra crunch, which makes every bite satisfying. These bread options aren’t just sides; they elevate the meal, turning a simple soup into something truly special. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Fresh Salad Options
Since a fresh salad can brighten up any meal, it’s a fantastic way to balance the comforting richness of homemade turkey soup. I love starting with a mix of leafy greens like spinach, arugula, and romaine for a crunchy base. Adding colorful veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and shredded carrots makes it visually appealing and nutritious. For a tangy twist, I whip up simple salad dressings—my go-to is a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Sometimes I’ll toss in toasted nuts or croutons for extra texture. It’s a quick, revitalizing side that complements the soup perfectly.
