When the weather cools down and comfort food cravings hit, few things satisfy like a hearty bowl of homemade soup. Turkey soup, in particular, is the perfect way to utilize leftover turkey, transforming it into a comforting, flavorful meal. Whether you’ve got Thanksgiving leftovers or just a craving for a savory bowl of soup, this recipe is simple, flavorful, and packed with nourishment.
Turkey soup is a time-honored dish, often made from the carcass of the turkey, where you extract every bit of flavor to create a rich, hearty broth. The beauty of turkey soup lies in its versatility-spices, vegetables, and even pasta or rice can be added to customize it to your taste. If you’ve never made it before or are looking to upgrade your current recipe, I’m about to walk you through an incredible step-by-step process that will leave your kitchen smelling amazing and your stomach full.
Old Fashioned Turkey Soup Recipe
This classic turkey soup recipe highlights the deep flavors of the turkey combined with the freshness of vegetables. It’s wholesome, nutritious, and feels like a big warm hug in a bowl. It also makes for great leftovers, so prepare enough to last a couple of days or freeze it for later.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Turkey – 3-4 cups of cooked turkey meat, shredded or chopped. Leftover turkey works perfectly!
- Turkey Carcass – If you’re starting from scratch and have the carcass from a roasted turkey, this will provide the rich base for your broth.
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Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3-4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 sprigs of fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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Broth
- 6-8 cups of chicken or turkey broth (store-bought or homemade)
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Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with this)
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Pasta or Rice (optional but recommended for added heartiness):
- 1 cup of small pasta like elbow macaroni or egg noodles, or 1/2 cup of uncooked rice
- Olive oil – For sautéing vegetables
- Parsley – Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Making this turkey soup is as easy as it is rewarding. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:
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Prepare The Broth
- If you’re starting with a turkey carcass, place it in a large stockpot and cover with 8 cups of water. Add a couple of onions (peeled but not chopped), a couple of carrots, and a few celery stalks. Throw in a couple of garlic cloves, a bay leaf, and the thyme and rosemary.
- Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 2-3 hours, making sure to skim the foam off the top every so often.
- If you’re using pre-made broth, simply skip the carcass step and heat the broth in a large pot, adding the seasonings, vegetables, and letting it simmer for 30 minutes to develop the flavors.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the aroma fills the room.
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Combine Broth And Veggies
- If you’re using homemade turkey broth, remove the carcass after it has simmered for a couple of hours. Strain out the bones and return the liquid to the pot. Add the sautéed vegetables and bring everything to a boil.
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Add The Turkey
- Now, add your shredded or chopped turkey to the pot and bring the soup back to a simmer. Let it cook for another 15-20 minutes to blend the flavors.
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Add Pasta or Rice (Optional):
- If you’re using pasta or rice, add it now and let it cook in the broth until tender. If you’re using rice, give it about 15 minutes. Pasta will take 10 minutes or so, depending on the type.
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Season To Taste
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you like a little extra kick, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with some crusty bread for dipping and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
The ingredients in this turkey soup recipe are more than just basic components-they each play an essential role in creating the depth of flavor that makes the soup so satisfying.
- Turkey: The star of the soup, turkey provides a rich, savory base flavor. Whether you’re using leftover turkey from a holiday feast or freshly cooked turkey breast, this ingredient gives the soup its substance and heartiness.
- Carcass: If you’ve got a turkey carcass, it’s a gold mine for making broth. The slow simmering process extracts gelatin and collagen from the bones, giving the soup that velvety, rich texture you can’t replicate with store-bought broth.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, celery, and garlic-also known as the “holy trinity” in many soups-form the backbone of flavor. These vegetables are aromatic, sweet, and savory, adding a fresh and fragrant note to the soup.
- Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring an earthy, aromatic quality. Bay leaves add a subtle depth to the broth, making it smell irresistible.
Expert Tips
- Make Ahead: Turkey soup only gets better after sitting for a day or two in the fridge as the flavors meld together. If you’re prepping for the future, make a double batch and freeze some for later.
- Use Homemade Broth: Homemade turkey or chicken broth gives the soup a deep, rich flavor that store-bought versions can’t match. It’s worth the time and effort, especially when you’re making a soup this cozy.
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Taste your soup frequently as it cooks and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make a huge difference.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap out or add vegetables. Leeks, parsnips, or even corn can be great additions.
- Bone-In Turkey: If you’re using bone-in turkey parts, make sure to allow time for the bones to release their goodness into the broth. The longer you simmer the turkey, the better the soup will be.
Recipe Variations
This turkey soup recipe is incredibly versatile and lends itself well to modifications. Here are a few variations you could try:
- Creamy Turkey Soup: For a richer, creamier soup, add 1 cup of heavy cream towards the end of cooking, or use a blend of half-and-half or milk.
- Spicy Turkey Soup: Kick up the heat with some chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder. A dash of cumin can also give it an earthy warmth.
- Asian-Inspired: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce and a teaspoon of ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor profile. You can also add sliced mushrooms for more umami.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey altogether and make a hearty vegetable version. Add beans or lentils for protein and extra texture.
- Pasta-Free: If you prefer a low-carb version, skip the pasta and add a bit more vegetables to keep it filling.
Final Words
Turkey soup is more than just a way to use up leftovers-it’s a time-honored, comforting dish that’s been passed down through generations. With this recipe, you can create a rich, flavorful soup that’s packed with nourishment and love. It’s a meal that brings people together, whether you’re enjoying it by yourself on a cold day or serving it to your family around the table.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For An Old Fashioned Turkey Soup Recipe?
The main ingredients for an old fashioned turkey soup recipe typically include turkey meat (preferably leftover from a roasted turkey), vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes, garlic, chicken broth or turkey stock, herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, and seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also add noodles or rice for extra texture.
Can I Use Turkey Leftovers For This Soup?
Yes, turkey leftovers are perfect for an old fashioned turkey soup recipe. Shredded or chopped turkey from a roast works best, as it infuses the soup with a rich, savory flavor. The leftover meat can be used in its entirety or in combination with fresh turkey stock.
How Long Should I Simmer The Soup To Develop A Rich Flavor?
For a rich, flavorful soup, it’s ideal to simmer the turkey soup for at least 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows the flavors of the turkey and vegetables to meld together. If using homemade turkey stock, you can simmer it even longer for a deeper flavor.
Can I Make The Turkey Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, turkey soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will often improve overnight as they continue to blend. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage, typically up to 2-3 months.
What Vegetables Can I Add To The Turkey Soup?
Common vegetables to add to an old fashioned turkey soup recipe include carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. You can also include peas, corn, green beans, or parsnips for added variety. These vegetables not only add flavor but also contribute to the soup’s hearty texture.
Can I Use Store-bought Turkey Stock Instead Of Homemade?
Yes, you can use store-bought turkey stock, but homemade stock will provide a richer, more authentic flavor. If using store-bought stock, choose one with minimal additives for a more natural taste. You can also mix in a bit of water or a vegetable broth to balance the flavors.
Can I Add Noodles Or Rice To The Soup?
Yes, you can add noodles or rice to your turkey soup for added texture and heartiness. If adding noodles, consider using egg noodles or small pasta shapes. If adding rice, long-grain white rice or wild rice works well. Be sure to cook them separately or add them towards the end to prevent them from overcooking.
What Seasonings Should I Use For An Old Fashioned Turkey Soup?
For an old fashioned turkey soup, traditional seasonings include salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. You can also add a touch of garlic, sage, or parsley for additional depth. Adjust the seasoning to your taste as the soup simmers.
How Do I Make The Soup Thicker?
To thicken your turkey soup, you can use a variety of methods. For a creamier texture, consider adding a thickening agent such as flour or cornstarch. You can also mash some of the potatoes or vegetables in the soup to naturally thicken the broth. For a richer consistency, you could add a bit of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream.
Can I Make Turkey Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Yes, both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot are great options for making turkey soup. In a slow cooker, you can simmer the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. In an Instant Pot, use the soup function to cook the ingredients in about 30 minutes. Adjust cooking times based on the size of your turkey pieces and vegetables.