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.
The first batch was a revelation—the 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 You’ll 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
- Sauté 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
Ingredients
- 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.
