Cozy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe: Heartwarming Magic in a Bowl

Warming comfort arrives through this hearty leftover turkey soup that promises delicious redemption for holiday remnants.

Chilly evenings demand something nourishing and simple to prepare.

Chunky vegetables and tender meat pieces create a robust meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Pantry staples merge with leftover roasted turkey for an effortless transformation.

Fragrant herbs and rich broth infuse each spoonful with satisfying depth.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can craft this soup without stress.

Dive into a bowl that turns yesterday’s feast into today’s delightful comfort.

Reasons to Enjoy Hearty Homemade Turkey Soup Today

• Whip Up Quick Comfort: Perfect for busy home cooks wanting a nourishing meal without complicated steps, this turkey soup comes together smoothly with minimal kitchen skills required.
• Rescue Leftover Turkey: Transform yesterday's roasted turkey into a delicious, warming soup that breathes new life into remaining meat, reducing food waste and saving money.
• Pack Nutritional Punch: Loaded with lean protein from turkey, vitamins from vegetables like carrots and spinach, and immune-boosting herbs, this soup delivers a powerful wellness boost in every spoonful.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows simple ingredient swaps or additions based on personal taste or what's available in your kitchen, making it adaptable for different preferences and dietary needs.

Gathering Ingredients for Hearty Homemade Turkey Soup Perfection

• Turkey: Shredded or chopped meat that provides the protein and hearty flavor for the soup.
• Chicken Broth: Provides the liquid base and adds rich, savory depth to the soup.

• Onion, Carrots, Celery: A classic mirepoix blend that creates a flavorful foundation for the soup.
• Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor to enhance the overall taste.
• Spinach or Kale: Fresh greens that add nutrition and a vibrant color to the soup.
• Peas: Sweet and tender vegetables that bring a pop of color and additional nutrition.

• Thyme, Rosemary: Herbs that provide earthy and fragrant undertones to the soup.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Lemon Juice: Bright citrus accent that adds a fresh and zesty finish to the soup.
• Cooking Oil: Used to sauté vegetables and create a smooth cooking base.

Stepwise Guide to Hearty Homemade Turkey Soup Preparation

Step 1: Prepare Your Cooking Station

Grab a big, sturdy pot and gather all your delicious ingredients.

You’ll want fresh turkey, crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and some tasty broth to create a soul-warming soup that’ll make everyone at the table smile.

• Olive oil
• Leftover roasted turkey
• Onions
• Carrots
• Celery
• Garlic
• Chicken or turkey broth
• Fresh thyme
• Fresh rosemary
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Baby spinach or kale
• Frozen peas
• Fresh lemon

Step 2: Sauté The Aromatic Vegetables

Drizzle olive oil into your pot and let it warm up over medium heat.

Toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery.

Stir these colorful vegetables around, letting them dance and soften for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender and release their wonderful fragrance.

Step 3: Awaken The Garlic

Sprinkle minced garlic into the pot and let it sizzle for 1-2 minutes.

The kitchen will fill with an incredible aroma that’ll make everyone’s mouth water.

Step 4: Build The Soup’s Foundation

Pour in your broth, creating a luxurious liquid base.

Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and help them get acquainted.

Step 5: Add Protein And Herbs

Fold in your shredded turkey meat and sprinkle in fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

These herbs will transform your soup from ordinary to extraordinary.

Step 6: Simmer And Develop Flavors

Let the soup bubble gently for about 20 minutes.

This slow cooking allows all the flavors to mingle and create a harmonious, comforting dish.

Step 7: Taste And Adjust

Take a small spoonful and taste.

Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

Cooking is all about personal preference.

Step 8: Add Fresh Greens

Toss in baby spinach or kale, watching it wilt and add a vibrant green color to your soup.

Step 9: Final Touch Of Sweetness

Stir in frozen peas and let them cook for about 5 minutes, adding a pop of color and sweet flavor.

Step 10: Serve With Sunshine

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

The citrus will brighten all the rich, warm flavors and add a final zesty touch.

Hearty Turkey Soup Tips for Rich, Savory Results

• Roast vegetables before adding to the pot to enhance their natural sweetness and create a more complex flavor profile.
• Swap turkey with rotisserie chicken or shredded beef for variety, keeping the soup's hearty essence intact.
• Use low-sodium broth and gradually add salt to manage overall sodium content, allowing individual seasoning preferences.
• Store soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months, ensuring a quick and delicious meal is always ready.
• Add quinoa or barley for extra protein and fiber, transforming the soup into a more substantial meal.

Easy Variations for Hearty Homemade Turkey Soup Fans

• Vegetarian Veggie Soup: Replace turkey with firm tofu or white beans for a protein-packed plant-based version that maintains the soup's hearty texture and nutritional value.
• Gluten-Free Herb Soup: Use gluten-free broth and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Low-Sodium Wellness Soup: Swap regular broth with low-sodium vegetable broth and reduce salt, using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to enhance flavor without additional sodium.
• Spicy Southwestern Soup: Add diced green chiles, cumin, and cilantro to transform the traditional turkey soup into a zesty, warming Mexican-inspired meal.

Serving Ideas for Hearty Homemade Turkey Soup Bowls

• Soup Bowl Charm: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a vibrant color pop and extra herbal freshness.
• Crusty Companion: Serve alongside warm crusty bread or toasted sourdough slices to soak up the delicious broth and add satisfying texture.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving to create a creamy, tangy dimension that balances the soup's hearty flavors.
• Protein Power-Up: Top with shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy bacon bits for additional protein and a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish.

Storing Hearty Homemade Turkey Soup for Next Time

• Store leftover soup in airtight container for 3-4 days, keeping it fresh and tasty in the refrigerator.
• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and freeze up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
• Transfer desired portion to microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Gently warm soup in pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain soup's original texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken for turkey. The cooking method remains the same, and the flavors will be similar.

• Is this soup gluten-free?

The recipe as written is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth is gluten-free and check seasoning ingredient labels.

• How nutritious is this turkey soup?

This soup is packed with protein from turkey, vitamins from vegetables like carrots and spinach, and provides a balanced, healthy meal option.

• Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup can be prepared ahead and reheated. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a few hours, making it perfect for meal prep.

Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Leftover Turkey Soup delivers comfort in a bowl, packed with tender meat and wholesome vegetables. Homemade goodness brings warmth and satisfaction you’ll savor down to the last spoonful.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 6 cups turkey or chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 1 cup frozen peas

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm a deep pot over medium heat, infusing the base with aromatic cooking oil.
2. Gently sauté chopped onions, diced carrots, and sliced celery until they soften and become translucent, approximately 5-6 minutes.
3. Introduce minced garlic to the vegetable medley, allowing its rich fragrance to permeate the mixture for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in rich, flavorful broth, stirring thoroughly to integrate the ingredients.
5. Incorporate shredded turkey meat along with dried thyme, rosemary, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
6. Reduce heat and allow the soup to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld and develop depth.
7. Taste the soup and fine-tune the seasoning profile, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
8. Delicately fold in fresh chopped spinach or kale, watching the greens wilt and soften into the liquid.
9. Add sweet green peas, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes to warm them through.
10. Finish with a bright splash of fresh lemon juice and ladle into warm bowls, serving immediately for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

• Swap turkey with rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal prep option.
• Use gluten-free broth and tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
• Boost protein by adding white beans or quinoa for vegetarian variations.
• Freeze extra soup portions in airtight containers for convenient future meals, keeping up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 150 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg