Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe

Why Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food

The holidays bring abundant feasts and joyous gatherings, but what often follows is a fridge full of leftovers. Instead of letting your perfectly cooked turkey go to waste, transform it into a warm, hearty turkey soup that’s packed with flavor and goodness.

This Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Soup recipe is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and a smart way to breathe new life into your holiday meal remnants. With fresh vegetables, herbs, and a rich homemade broth, this soup provides nourishment and comfort after all the holiday indulgence.

Whether you’re craving a light meal or something soul-warming to share with family, this soup delivers on taste, simplicity, and wholesome nutrition.

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What Makes This Soup So Special?

• Transforms leftovers into a fresh, delicious meal

• Loaded with seasonal vegetables and savory herbs

• Uses turkey carcass or meat for a rich, flavorful broth

• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like noodles, rice, or beans

• A comforting bowl perfect for chilly fall and winter days

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Soup

• Turkey Broth: Use homemade broth made from turkey bones and scraps or store-bought low-sodium broth

• Leftover Turkey Meat: Chopped or shredded cooked turkey breast and dark meat

• Vegetables:

  • 2 large carrots, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 2 bay leaves

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Pasta or Grain:

  • 1 cup egg noodles, or substitute with rice/quinoa for gluten-free

• Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 cup frozen peas or green beans

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

  • Lemon juice for brightness

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Soup

Step 1: Make the Turkey Broth (If You Don’t Have Store-Bought)

If you have turkey bones or carcass from your Thanksgiving meal, making broth is simple and yields deep flavor.

• Place turkey bones in a large pot and cover with cold water (about 8 cups).

• Add half an onion, a couple of celery stalks, a few carrot pieces, 2 bay leaves, and some peppercorns.

• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 2–3 hours, skimming any foam.

• Strain the broth through a fine sieve, discarding solids. Reserve broth and cool.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until tender, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add Broth, Herbs, and Simmer

Pour in your homemade or store-bought turkey broth. Add dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 4: Add Turkey Meat and Pasta

Stir in leftover turkey meat and egg noodles (or preferred grain). Cook until noodles are tender, about 7–10 minutes. If adding frozen peas or green beans, stir them in about 3 minutes before the noodles finish cooking.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Seasoning

Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

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Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Soup

• Use a mix of white and dark turkey meat for varied texture and flavor.

• Simmer gently to keep the turkey moist and tender.

• Add pasta last so it doesn’t get mushy if you plan to store leftovers.

• Freeze leftovers in portions without pasta to keep them fresh longer; add pasta when reheating.

• Enhance with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for vibrant aroma.

• Don’t forget lemon juice! A small amount can elevate the flavor and balance richness.

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How to Store and Reheat Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Soup

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• To freeze, remove pasta, cool soup completely, and transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

• Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding extra broth or water if soup is too thick. Add fresh pasta or grains during reheating if desired.

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Variations and Add-Ons for Turkey Soup

• Gluten-Free: Use rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta instead of traditional noodles.

• Vegetarian: Skip the turkey meat and broth, and substitute with vegetable broth and beans for protein.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

• Creamy Turkey Soup: Stir in coconut milk or a splash of cream near the end for richness.

• Hearty Grain Boost: Add cooked barley, farro, or wild rice for a more filling meal.

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Why This Soup is Perfect After Thanksgiving

After a day of heavy meals and rich dishes, a light yet nourishing soup like this helps reset your palate. It’s hydrating, easy to digest, and filled with nutrients. Plus, it’s an economical way to enjoy the bounty of your holiday feast without feeling repetitive.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftovers?

Yes! This soup works great with freshly cooked turkey or even turkey breast from the store. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this soup without bones or carcass broth?

Absolutely. Store-bought turkey or chicken broth works perfectly well, especially when supplemented with herbs and aromatics.

How long does this soup keep in the freezer?

Up to 3 months when stored properly. For best texture, freeze without noodles and add them fresh when reheating.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the slow cooker to simmer broth, vegetables, and turkey on low for 6-8 hours. For Instant Pot, sauté aromatics using sauté mode, then pressure cook for about 10 minutes.

What if I don’t have egg noodles?

You can substitute any pasta, rice, quinoa, or even small potatoes for a different twist.

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Serving Suggestions for Your Leftover Turkey Soup

• Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.

• Pair with a fresh green salad to add crunch and brightness.

• Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for extra savory depth.

• Enjoy alongside roasted vegetables or a light fruit crisp for a complete meal.

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Final Thoughts

The Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Soup is a quintessential comfort food that turns post-holiday leftovers into a delicious, warming meal. Easy to customize, packed with nutrients, and full of seasonal charm, it’s sure to become a tradition in your fall and winter meal rotation.

So next time you’re faced with leftover turkey, don’t just store it—transform it into a soulful bowl of comfort that feeds both your body and spirit.