Easy Leftover Turkey Soup

There's something so heartwarming about a cozy bowl of soup, especially when it's made with love and a few leftover ingredients from the fridge. A few years ago, I found myself with a mountain of turkey after a holiday feast, and I was determined not to let it go to waste. With a little creativity and some pantry staples, I whipped up a soup that not only cleared out my leftovers but became a beloved family recipe. Today, I’m excited to share that very recipe with you: my Easy Leftover Turkey Soup.

Why you'll love this recipe

This isn’t just another turkey soup; it’s a hug in a bowl! Packed with flavor and a nourishing blend of veggies, this soup is all about comfort and simplicity. Imagine the tender turkey mingling with fragrant herbs like thyme and rosemary, while the veggies bring that beautiful crunch. And let’s not forget—this is a fantastic way to utilize those turkey leftovers without the repetitive turkey sandwich saga. You'll be surprised at the depth of flavor you can achieve with just a few hearty ingredients, and it all comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you crave something warm and filling.

Gather these ingredients

Let’s round up our soup essentials. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded: The star of the show! Any cooked turkey will do—roast, grilled, or even smoked, depending on what you have on hand.
• 1 onion, diced: Brings a savory base and a bit of sweetness as it cooks.
• 2 carrots, diced: These add a lovely pop of color and natural sweetness. You can swap them for parsnips for a different flavor.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: A must for that classic soup base, celery provides that crunchy, refreshing taste.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better! Feel free to adjust based on your love for this aromatic.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade broth truly elevates the dish.
• 1 cup green beans, chopped: Fresh or frozen—use what you have! They add a delightful texture and burst of green.
• 1 teaspoon thyme: This herb lends an earthy note that complements the turkey beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon rosemary: A little goes a long way; rosemary adds a warming, pine-like flavor to the soup.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all those lovely flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and adding richness.
• Optional: 1 cup cream: Stir in just before serving for a luxuriously creamy version. It’s like wrapping a warm blanket around your soup.

How this recipe comes together

The beauty of this soup lies in its straightforwardness—let’s get cooking!

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer as you prep your veggies.
2. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until they're softened—about 5 minutes. This is where the magic begins; the aroma will fill your kitchen with the promise of good things to come!
3. Add the minced garlic and give it a minute to sauté. Don’t skip this step! Garlic toasted in oil adds a depth that’s simply irresistible.
4. Now it’s time to bring in the star of our show—add the shredded turkey, chicken broth, and chopped green beans. Sprinkle in the thyme and rosemary.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a taste test—add a pinch more seasoning if needed.
7. If you’re going for that creamy comfort, stir in the cream just before serving.
8. Serve hot and enjoy the love in every spoonful.

Best way to enjoy it

Now that your soup is bubbling and aromatic, let’s talk about serving. This soup is perfect just by itself, but you can elevate the experience by pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. To make it even more special, consider topping it with freshly chopped herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added tang. And if you love cheese, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can take it to the next level!

Storage and reheating tips

Let’s keep those leftovers fresh! If you have any soup left, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer bags or containers. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stove over medium heat, stirring often until it's warmed through. For the best texture, avoid microwaving this one if you can help it, as it may split the cream if you’ve added it.

Helpful cooking tips

A few insider tips:

• If you want to add more veggies, feel free! Zucchini or peas can be great additions.
• For a bit of spice, throw in some crushed red pepper flakes. Just a pinch can brighten the soup!
• Use leftover turkey bones to make your chicken broth! It’s a great way to infuse flavor and reduce waste.

Creative Twists

Let’s get creative! Feeling adventurous? You could switch up the herbs for a hint of Italian flair—basil and oregano work wonderfully too. Craving something spicy? Toss in some diced jalapeños or chipotle for a kick. You can also turn this into a Mexican-inspired dish by adding corn and cilantro, topped with avocado.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: 1 cup cream

Directions to follow

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, carrots, and celery; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic; sauté for an additional minute.
4. Add shredded turkey, chicken broth, green beans, thyme, and rosemary.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. For a creamy version, stir in cream just before serving.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Your questions answered

• How long does this soup take to make? About 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weekday dinner!
• Can I use fresh turkey instead of cooked? Sure, but be sure to cook it through before shredding!
• What if I don’t have green beans? No problem! Use any quick-cooking veggie like peas or corn.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Just ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
• What’s the best way to freeze it? Cool the soup completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.

You are now fully equipped to make this easy, delicious leftover turkey soup! Not only is it a fantastic way to turn yesterday's dinner into a new family favorite, but it's also a reminder that each meal can hold a little magic and a lot of love. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and don’t forget to share your thoughts or any creative twists you come up with! Happy cooking!