If you’re anything like me, Thanksgiving is an absolute feast of flavor, family, and of course, leftovers. The turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and all the sides often result in a fridge full of food. But while it’s great to have extra, it can also get a little repetitive after a couple of days. So, what’s the solution to turning those leftovers into something new, exciting, and comforting?
Enter leftover turkey soup. This recipe is a game-changer, especially when you’ve got turkey sitting in your fridge begging to be repurposed. Not only does it transform those turkey scraps into something hearty and delicious, but the beauty of it is that it’s a breeze to make-especially in a slow cooker!
The slow cooker works magic on this soup, allowing the flavors to meld together over time, creating a rich and comforting dish without all the effort. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy a warm, flavorful meal with minimal prep. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just yourself, this leftover turkey soup will become a go-to recipe for cozy nights.
Leftover Turkey Soup In Slow Cooker Recipe
This slow cooker turkey soup is the perfect solution to using up your leftover turkey. It’s savory, hearty, and bursting with flavor, making it ideal for those chilly evenings when you want something to warm you up.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to gather for this soup. The best part? These ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, especially after Thanksgiving!
- Leftover Turkey – About 2-3 cups of shredded or diced turkey. You can use whatever cuts you have left: white meat, dark meat, or even the bones for added flavor.
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Vegetables – A mix of carrots, celery, and onion is the classic base. They add sweetness, crunch, and depth of flavor to the soup.
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- Garlic – 3-4 cloves, minced. Garlic enhances the richness of the soup and brings a punch of aromatic depth.
- Turkey Broth or Stock – About 4 cups. Using turkey broth intensifies the turkey flavor, but chicken broth will work in a pinch.
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Herbs – Fresh or dried herbs are a must. Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves are perfect for this soup.
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 2 bay leaves
- Potatoes – 2 medium potatoes, diced. Potatoes help thicken the soup and add a comforting heartiness.
- Frozen Corn – 1 cup for a touch of sweetness and texture contrast. This ingredient is optional, but it adds a nice pop of color and flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste, always adjust these at the end to make sure your soup is perfectly seasoned.
- Optional Garnishes – Fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to put this soup together. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting for you, so you can sit back and relax while it works its magic.
- Prepare the Veggies – Dice your carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic. Chop the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. If your turkey isn’t shredded already, break it down into small pieces.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker – Place all the ingredients into your slow cooker: turkey, vegetables, garlic, potatoes, herbs, and corn. Pour in the turkey broth, and give everything a good stir. Toss in the bay leaves.
- Season It – Season the soup with salt and pepper, keeping in mind that the broth and turkey may already be seasoned, so go light on the salt at first.
- Cook – Cover and cook the soup on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the vegetables to be tender, and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Final Taste Check – Before serving, remove the bay leaves, and taste the soup. Add any additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If the soup is thicker than you like, you can always add more broth or a splash of water.
- Serve & Garnish – Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. A drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese would make it even more indulgent!
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this turkey soup brings something special to the table:
- Turkey: The leftover turkey is the star of the show here. It’s tender, juicy, and full of that distinct Thanksgiving flavor. If you’ve used bones to make your broth, they’ll infuse the soup with an extra level of richness.
- Vegetables: The combination of carrots, celery, and onions (aka the holy trinity of many soups) builds a solid flavor base. Carrots offer sweetness, celery gives it that refreshing crunch, and onions bring a subtle sharpness that balances out the soup.
- Garlic: Garlic adds that savory, almost umami note that brings all the ingredients together. When it simmers for hours in the slow cooker, it transforms into a sweet, mellow flavor that complements the turkey and vegetables.
- Herbs: The thyme and rosemary infuse the soup with an earthy, fragrant aroma, while the bay leaves add a subtle layer of depth. You can always experiment with different herbs to personalize it.
- Potatoes: Potatoes make the soup hearty and filling. They also help thicken the broth as they cook down, giving the soup a cozy, stew-like texture.
- Corn: Though optional, corn brings a lovely sweetness and pops of color. It contrasts nicely with the savory broth and vegetables, creating a balanced flavor profile.
Expert Tips
To make sure your leftover turkey soup is the best it can be, here are some pro tips:
- Use the Turkey Bones: If you have turkey bones left over, you can make your own turkey broth by simmering them in water with some veggies and herbs. This creates a richer, more flavorful base for your soup.
- Adjust for Thickness: If you like a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the slow cooker, or add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it. If you want a thinner soup, add more broth or a splash of water.
- Don’t Overcook the Veggies: While the slow cooker is low-maintenance, you still want to be careful not to overcook the vegetables. If you prefer a bit more texture, add them in the last 2 hours of cooking.
- Freezer-Friendly: This soup freezes wonderfully. Simply let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Make It Creamy: For an added indulgence, stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half toward the end of cooking. This gives the soup a rich, velvety texture.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about soup is how flexible it is. Here are some variations you can try:
- Add Beans: Toss in a can of white beans, like cannellini or great northern beans, for extra protein and fiber. This will also make the soup heartier.
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you want to spice things up. A dash of hot sauce can also add some heat without overwhelming the soup.
- Italian Twist: Swap out the herbs for Italian seasoning, and add a can of diced tomatoes. A little parmesan cheese on top would finish it off perfectly.
- Asian Flavor: Use soy sauce instead of broth, and add ginger and green onions for an Asian-inspired twist. You can also add a splash of sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.
- Curry Flavor: Add a tablespoon of curry powder and a can of coconut milk for a creamy, spiced version of the soup.
Final Words
Leftover turkey soup is not just a meal-it’s a celebration of all the flavors from Thanksgiving in a single bowl. It’s an easy, nutritious way to extend the joy of the holiday without feeling like you’re eating the same thing over and over again. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a big hug in a bowl-perfect for when you want to feel cozy, comforted, and nourished.
FAQs
How Do I Make Leftover Turkey Soup In A Slow Cooker?
To make leftover turkey soup in a slow cooker, start by adding shredded turkey, vegetables (like carrots, celery, onions), broth, and seasonings. Set the slow cooker to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Optionally, add noodles or rice in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I Use Frozen Leftover Turkey For Slow Cooker Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen leftover turkey for slow cooker soup. However, make sure the turkey is thoroughly thawed before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking. If using frozen turkey, you may need to extend the cooking time.
What Vegetables Go Best In Leftover Turkey Soup?
Common vegetables to include in leftover turkey soup are carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, and garlic. You can also add peas, corn, or green beans for added flavor and texture.
Can I Add Pasta To My Leftover Turkey Soup In The Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can add pasta, but it’s best to add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. Choose smaller pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or egg noodles for the best results.
How Can I Make Leftover Turkey Soup Creamy In The Slow Cooker?
To make your turkey soup creamy, add half-and-half, heavy cream, or milk in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in for a creamier texture.
Is It Necessary To Sauté Vegetables Before Adding Them To The Slow Cooker?
Sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker is optional but can enhance the flavors of the soup. If you want a deeper, richer taste, sauté the vegetables in a little oil or butter before adding them to the slow cooker.
Can I Use Turkey Stock Instead Of Chicken Broth?
Yes, turkey stock works wonderfully as a base for leftover turkey soup and will enhance the turkey flavor. If you don’t have turkey stock, chicken broth is a fine substitute.
How Can I Store Leftover Turkey Soup For Later Use?
Store leftover turkey soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, simmer it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make Turkey Soup With Just The Turkey Bones?
Yes, turkey bones can be used to make a flavorful broth for your soup. Simply add them to the slow cooker with water, aromatics (like onions, garlic, and herbs), and simmer for several hours to extract the flavors before adding your vegetables and shredded turkey.
What Spices And Seasonings Should I Use For Leftover Turkey Soup?
For a simple and flavorful turkey soup, use salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and garlic. You can also experiment with sage, parsley, and oregano for additional flavor. Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.