There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially after a big feast like Thanksgiving. Leftover turkey can sometimes feel like a challenge to reinvent, but let me tell you—this Easy Leftover Turkey Soup is the magical answer. It’s not just any soup; it’s like giving a big, cozy hug to your taste buds. As a home chef who’s spent years perfecting the craft, I can assure you that this recipe is not only simple but brimming with flavor. Here’s why it’s worthy of your time.
Reasons to try it
This soup isn’t just a way to use up leftover turkey; it’s a revelation! Imagine tender turkey floating in a rich broth, surrounded by fresh veggies and a blend of herbs that whisper sweet nothings of comfort. This dish is a treasure because it’s easy to customize. Want to toss in some corn or pasta? Go for it! It’s also hearty enough to serve as a meal on its own, packed with nutrients that will warm your heart after those chilly autumn nights. Plus, let’s be real—there’s something utterly satisfying about crafting a delicious dish from what might have been wasted. Save the planet a little, and your taste buds will thank you too!
Gather these ingredients
Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this delicious adventure:
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2 cups cooked turkey, shredded: If you’ve got some leftover roasted turkey, great! If not, rotisserie chicken works like a charm too.
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1 onion, diced: Sweet or yellow onions add that perfect aroma as they sauté to sweetness.
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2 carrots, diced: They add not only color but also a natural sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
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2 celery stalks, diced: These crunchy green sticks lend a lovely earthiness, marrying all the flavors together.
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3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the undisputed champion of flavor. It’s like a secret handshake that unlocks the richness of your soup.
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6 cups chicken or turkey broth: Homemade is fabulous if you’ve got it, but store-bought works perfectly too. Just look for low-sodium versions for better control over seasoning.
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1 cup green beans, chopped: Fresh or frozen, these add a delightful crunch against the tender turkey and veggies.
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1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb brings a lovely floral aroma that pairs beautifully with turkey.
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Another fragrant hero, it boosts the savory profile and adds a warm depth.
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Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for that final flavor adjustment.
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2 tablespoons olive oil: A drizzle of good olive oil adds richness and helps sauté those veggies to perfection.
The cooking process explained
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and start cooking. Here’s how:
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Sauté the aromatic trio: In a large pot, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender and the onions are translucent. This step sets the foundation for your cozy flavors. Trust me, don’t skimp on this one!
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Add the garlic: After the veggies are tender, toss in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute, letting the aroma envelop your kitchen. You’ll know it’s done when you can’t resist taking a deep breath!
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In goes the broth and turkey: Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, chucking in the chopped green beans, shredded turkey, dried thyme, and rosemary. Stir it all together, and feel free to season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Bring it to life: Raise the heat until it starts to boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it gently bubble away for about 20-25 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the flavors meld beautifully!
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Final touches: After simmering, taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt and pepper.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle this comforting goodness into bowls and let the warmth wrap around you like a favorite blanket.
Best way to enjoy it
Pair your soup with some crusty bread or a simple green salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice on top can elevate the flavors even further. Feel free to experiment—maybe a dollop of sour cream or a scattering of crispy croutons for texture? The world is your oyster, or rather, your bowl of soup!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any extra soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Just make sure to stir occasionally, avoiding any sticking on the bottom. If you want to freeze it, let it cool first, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. It keeps for about 3 months, but I have a feeling it won’t last that long!
Pro chef tips
- If you’re missing fresh herbs, dried ones work just fine—just use half the amount.
- Feel free to add a bay leaf during the simmer for an extra layer of flavor; just remember to fish it out before serving!
- Experiment with seasonal veggies! Squash, zucchini, or even mushrooms couldl be delightful additions.
Recipe variations
Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Want it creamy? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving. Craving some spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes adds zing! You can even swap out the turkey for beans or lentils to keep it vegetarian—just adjust the broth quantity accordingly.
Ingredients list
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in broth, add green beans, thyme, rosemary, and shredded turkey. Stir to combine.
- Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Your questions answered
- How long does it take to prepare? The active time is about 10 minutes, with an additional 25 minutes for simmering.
- Can I use other proteins? Absolutely! Shredded chicken or even shredded beef would work well.
- How do I make it gluten-free? Just ensure that your broth is gluten-free, and you’re all set!
- What’s a good side dish? Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad works well.
- Can I use fresh beans? Yes, but remember to pre-cook them until tender before adding to the pot, as they take longer than the other ingredients.
With flavors so comforting and a process so easy, I hope you’ll give this Easy Leftover Turkey Soup a whirl. Remember to invite your loved ones to join in the fun—there’s nothing like sharing a meal to warm the heart. And as you experiment, don’t hesitate to share your creations or tweaks; after all, we’re all in this culinary journey together! Enjoy, and happy cooking!
Cozy and Comforting Turkey Soup
Description
A warm and hearty soup made with leftover turkey, fresh veggies, and a blend of herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in broth, add green beans, thyme, rosemary, and shredded turkey.
- Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Great for using up leftovers and can be customized with various vegetables.
