Cooking Turkey Noodle Soup from Scratch
Savor the comforting flavors of Turkey Noodle Soup, a heartwarming dish that transforms simple ingredients into a nourishing and satisfying meal. Perfect for using up leftover turkey, this soup combines tender pieces of turkey with flavorful broth, vegetables, and pasta to create a meal that’s both wholesome and delicious. Ideal for chilly days, recuperating from a cold, or whenever you need a bowl of comfort, Turkey Noodle Soup is a versatile recipe that’s easy to make and sure to be loved by all ages. Whether you’re looking for a way to give new life to holiday leftovers or simply in the mood for a classic soup, this recipe is a delightful choice that promises to warm you from the inside out.
There’s something special about a dish that can bring warmth and comfort with every spoonful, and Turkey Noodle Soup does just that. My own love for this soup began as an experiment with Thanksgiving leftovers, a creative endeavor to breathe new life into the remains of our festive feast. To my delight, what started as a simple attempt at reducing waste turned into a cherished family tradition, eagerly anticipated as much as the holiday meal itself.
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The first batch was a revelationโthe rich flavors of the turkey, combined with the heartiness of the noodles and the freshness of the vegetables, created a soup that was more than just a meal; it was a hug in a bowl. From then on, Turkey Noodle Soup became our post-holiday ritual, a delicious reminder of the joys of family, sharing, and gratitude. It’s a recipe that’s not just about the food but about creating memories and bringing comfort, one bowl at a time.
Why Youโll Love Turkey Noodle Soup
- Delicious Way to Use Leftovers: Transform your leftover turkey into a new and exciting meal.
- Comforting and Nourishing: Perfect for warming up on a cold day or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare, making it ideal for a hassle-free meal any day of the week.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
Ingredients Notes For Turkey Noodle Soup
- Turkey: Leftover cooked turkey, both white and dark meat, adds flavor and protein.
- Broth: Use homemade turkey broth, chicken broth, or vegetable broth for the base.
- Noodles: Egg noodles are classic, but any pasta can be used.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions form the traditional veggie base, but don’t hesitate to add peas, corn, or leafy greens like spinach.
- Seasonings: Thyme, bay leaves, and parsley add depth and warmth to the soup.
Recipe Steps
- Sautรฉ Vegetables: Begin by cooking the onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of oil until softened.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the broth and add your herbs, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Incorporate Turkey: Add the chopped or shredded leftover turkey to the pot, allowing it to warm through.
- Cook Noodles: Add the noodles directly into the soup and cook until tender, or cook separately and add them just before serving to keep them from becoming too soft.
- Finish and Serve: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup without the noodles to avoid them becoming mushy when thawed. Add fresh noodles when reheating.
Cooking Turkey Noodle Soup from Scratch
Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook PrintIngredients
- Cooked turkey: 2 cups shredded or chopped
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Carrots: 2 medium diced
- Celery: 2 stalks diced
- Onion: 1 medium diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Chicken or turkey broth: 8 cups
- Egg noodles: 2 cups uncooked
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Bay leaves: 2
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: chopped for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Add the Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the chicken or turkey broth. Add the dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the Noodles:
- Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes, until al dente.
Add the Turkey:
- Stir in the cooked turkey and continue to simmer until the turkey is heated through, about 5 minutes.
Finish and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.