Creamy Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly rich and satisfying Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup. Brimming with flavorful turkey, tender noodles, and an abundance of fresh vegetables, this comforting dish is an absolute must-have during the chilly winter months. It’s the ideal solution for making the most of your delicious leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
With its deep, savory flavors and hearty ingredients, this creamy turkey soup is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl!
💚 Why You’ll Love This Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
Are you searching for a fantastic and versatile soup recipe to add to your rotation, especially as the cooler months set in? Look no further than this incredibly flavorful Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup! It’s more than just a soup; it’s a complete meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: This soup boasts a luxurious, velvety consistency that truly coats your palate, making every spoonful a delight. It’s perfectly balanced, thick enough to be substantial but still wonderfully smooth.
- Packed with Protein: Utilizing hearty chunks of cooked turkey, this soup is a fantastic source of lean protein, keeping you feeling full and energized. It’s an excellent way to repurpose your holiday bird into something fresh and exciting.
- Wholesome Vegetables: Loaded with a colorful medley of carrots, celery, onions, and mushrooms, you’ll be getting a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber in every bowl. These fresh ingredients add depth of flavor and essential nutrients.
- Quick and Easy: Despite its rich flavor profile, this leftover turkey soup is surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s ready in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner when time is short.
- Ultimate Leftover Solution: If you have leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday meal, this recipe is your culinary hero. It breathes new life into cooked turkey, ensuring it doesn’t go to waste and transforming it into an entirely new, crave-worthy dish.
- Family-Friendly Favorite: The combination of tender turkey, soft noodles, and creamy broth appeals to all ages, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
Beyond this fantastic soup, if you find yourself with even more leftover turkey, consider whipping up a unique Brie Grilled Cheese with Turkey for an elevated lunch, or a comforting Slow Cooker Turkey Tetrazzini for another delicious and easy dinner!
🧂 Essential Ingredients for Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup
Crafting this hearty and flavorful soup requires a balanced blend of fresh vegetables, savory protein, and rich dairy. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- Butter: This is the foundation of our soup, providing a rich, indulgent base and helping to sauté the vegetables to perfection.
- Onion: A classic aromatic, chopped onion adds a distinctly savory and slightly sweet flavor that forms the backbone of the soup’s taste profile.
- Celery & Carrots: Known as part of the “mirepoix,” these vegetables add essential sweetness, earthiness, and a beautiful pop of color. They also contribute a wealth of healthy nutrients to the soup.
- Garlic: Minced garlic is crucial for tying all the savory flavors together, imparting a warm, pungent aroma and taste that elevates the entire dish.
- All-Purpose Flour: This acts as a thickening agent, creating a roux with the butter that ensures your soup achieves that wonderfully creamy, thick consistency we’re aiming for.
- Chicken Broth: While any broth will work, chicken broth is my preferred choice for its natural synergy with poultry, enhancing the turkey’s flavor without overpowering it. You can opt for low-sodium broth if preferred.
- Half and Half: The key to our soup’s luxurious creaminess! Half and half provides a rich, velvety texture and contributes to the soup’s comforting mouthfeel. Heavy cream can also be used for an even richer result.
- Dried Parsley & Dried Oregano: These aromatic herbs infuse the soup with classic, comforting flavors. Parsley adds a fresh, slightly peppery note, while oregano contributes a warm, earthy, and slightly pungent taste.
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy, umami depth that beautifully complements the turkey and vegetables, grounding the overall flavor profile.
- Cooked Turkey: The star of our leftover turkey soup! Shredded or diced cooked turkey is a fantastic way to utilize holiday leftovers, adding a substantial, savory protein element. Any cooked turkey will do, whether it’s from a roasted bird, smoked turkey, or even rotisserie chicken.
- Egg Noodles: A classic choice for chicken or turkey noodle soup, egg noodles are wonderfully tender and hold up exceptionally well in a creamy broth. Their delicate texture makes them a comforting addition. Other small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni would also work.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup
Creating this delicious creamy turkey noodle soup is a straightforward process, perfect for any home cook. Follow these simple steps for a truly comforting meal:
- Melt the Butter: Begin by melting the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Ensure the butter is fully melted and shimmering before adding the vegetables.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, sliced celery, sliced carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the vegetables start to soften. This step is crucial for building a strong flavor base.
- Stir in Flour (Create a Roux): Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables. Stir continuously for another 2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook out and create a “roux.” This roux will be key to thickening your soup and giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
- Combine Liquid & Remaining Ingredients: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming from the flour. Once smooth, add the dried parsley, dried oregano, sliced mushrooms, cooked turkey, and egg noodles to the pot.
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 6-10 minutes, or until the egg noodles are cooked to your preferred tenderness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot and enjoy!
❔ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To achieve a wonderfully creamy and thick soup, several techniques can be employed. The most direct way is by adding dairy products such as half and half, heavy cream, or even evaporated milk towards the end of the cooking process. In this recipe, we use half and half, which provides a rich, smooth texture. Another excellent method, as utilized here, is creating a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) at the beginning of the cooking process. This serves as a superb base for thickening. If you desire an even thicker or silkier consistency, you can carefully transfer one or two cups of the finished soup (especially the vegetable and broth portion, avoiding too many noodles) to a blender and blend until smooth, then reincorporate it into the main pot. This trick adds body without extra dairy.
While the classic turkey sandwich remains a beloved option in many households, there are countless creative ways to give your leftover turkey a delicious second life! Making this creamy turkey noodle soup is undeniably one of the most satisfying and efficient ways to ensure no flavorful morsel goes to waste. Other popular options include turkey pot pie, turkey chili, turkey quesadillas, turkey salad, turkey shepherd’s pie, or even stirring it into a creamy pasta dish. The key is to think beyond the plate and transform it into an entirely new culinary experience.
Absolutely! Compared to many other meat proteins, turkey stands out for its impressive health benefits. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Turkey is also remarkably low in fat, particularly if you choose leaner cuts like breast meat and remove the skin. Furthermore, it’s packed with beneficial minerals such as selenium and zinc, and a good source of complex B-vitamins, including B3 (niacin) and B6. Its relatively mild flavor also makes it incredibly versatile, allowing it to be easily incorporated into a wide variety of healthy and delicious recipes.
If you’re looking to make the most of your entire turkey carcass after a big holiday meal, you might be interested in another creamy turkey soup recipe that includes directions for making your own rich turkey broth from scratch. This method uses homemade broth instead of store-bought chicken broth, adding an even deeper layer of flavor to your soup!
💭 Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Creamy Turkey Soup
To ensure your creamy turkey noodle soup turns out perfect every time, and to save precious time in the kitchen, consider these expert tips and clever shortcuts:
- Time-Saving Shortcuts: Don’t hesitate to take advantage of pre-prepped ingredients.
- Frozen Diced Onion: A lifesaver when you want to avoid chopping and crying. Simply toss it into the pot directly from the freezer.
- Pre-Washed & Cut Veggies: Many grocery stores offer pre-cut carrots, celery sticks, and even pre-sliced mushrooms. These significantly reduce your prep time.
- Jarred Minced Garlic: While fresh garlic is always great, jarred minced garlic is a fantastic convenience product for a quick weeknight meal. Just be mindful of its slightly different potency.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles towards the end of the cooking process and cook only until al dente (firm to the bite). Noodles can continue to absorb liquid and soften even after the heat is off, potentially becoming mushy if overcooked.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference. Broths vary in sodium content, so you may need more or less salt.
- Achieving Ultimate Creaminess: For an extra rich soup, consider stirring in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the very end. This can elevate the creaminess even further.
- Perfect Turkey Texture: If your leftover turkey is a bit dry, shredding it into smaller pieces will allow it to better absorb the flavorful broth, making it more tender and moist in the soup.
📌 Making leftover turkey soup is a surefire way to give your holiday leftovers a brand new, exciting life! This creamy, hearty, and flavorful soup will quickly become a cherished winter favorite in your home. You might even find yourself roasting another turkey just to make more of it!
💡 Substitutions and Variations for Your Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup
This creamy turkey noodle soup recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing for various substitutions and additions to suit your taste, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative!
- Broth Options:
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Easily swap regular chicken broth for a low-salt version to better control the sodium content of your soup.
- Vegetable or Bone Broth: For a different flavor profile or to accommodate dietary preferences, vegetable broth works beautifully. Bone broth will add an extra boost of nutrients and a richer mouthfeel.
- Homemade Turkey Broth: If you’ve got a turkey carcass, making your own turkey broth will add incredible depth of flavor to this soup.
- Dairy Alternatives:
- Lower Fat Options: Half and half is available in low-fat or fat-free versions if you’re looking to reduce the fat content. Just note that it may not be quite as rich. Whole milk can also be used for a slightly lighter touch, though it won’t be as creamy.
- Heavy Cream: For an even more decadent and rich soup, use heavy cream instead of half and half.
- Additional Seasonings & Spice:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, a dash of cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for a subtle or noticeable kick.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh parsley or thyme on hand, chop them finely and add them in the last few minutes of cooking for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Bay Leaf: A bay leaf added during the simmer can infuse an extra layer of savory aroma. Remember to remove it before serving.
- Vegetable Boost:
- Spinach or Kale: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or chopped kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added greens and nutrients.
- Peas or Corn: Frozen peas or corn can be added towards the end for extra color and sweetness.
- Other Noodles: If egg noodles aren’t available, small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti can be used.
- Garnish for Flair:
- Smoked Paprika: A sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving adds a beautiful dash of color and a subtle smoky aroma.
- Fresh Parsley or Dill: A scattering of fresh chopped parsley or dill not only adds a fresh burst of flavor but also makes for an attractive presentation.
- Croutons or Crackers: Serve with crispy croutons or a side of oyster crackers for added texture.
🥫 Storage and Reheating Your Creamy Turkey Soup
Proper storage and reheating ensure your creamy turkey noodle soup remains delicious for days, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Here’s how to do it:
- Storage: Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best results, allow the soup to cool at room temperature for no more than two hours before refrigerating.
- Freezing: While you *can* freeze this soup, be aware that the creamy base (due to the half and half) and the noodles may change texture upon thawing. Dairy-based soups can sometimes separate or become grainy, and noodles can become mushy. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to undercook the noodles slightly or even add freshly cooked noodles after thawing and reheating the broth. Freeze in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating Individual Portions: For a quick reheat, portion some soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Be careful not to boil, as this can sometimes cause the dairy to separate.
- Reheating Larger Portions: If you’re reheating a larger quantity, gently pour the soup into a pot or Dutch oven on the stove top over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Add a splash of extra broth or half and half if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge. Bring it to a gentle simmer, but avoid a rolling boil.
🍴 What To Serve With This Dish
This versatile creamy turkey noodle soup can effortlessly be served as a hearty main course or a flavorful side dish. Its rich nature pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments:
- As a Main Course:
- Crusty Bread: Pair it with some warm, crusty bread like Homemade Cheddar Slow Cooker Bread, garlic bread, or a simple baguette for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad, such as a Buffalo Chicken Cobb Salad (sans chicken for a simpler side), or a garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- As a Supplementary Side Dish:
- Toasted Sandwiches: Serve alongside a classic grilled cheese, or elevate it with a Chicken Grilled Cheese for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Baked Avocado: For a unique and healthy side, consider serving it with Baked Avocados.
- Simple Wraps or Paninis: A lighter wrap or panini can complement the soup without making the meal too heavy.
✔️ More Comforting Soup Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a soup enthusiast, be sure to explore these other delightful and easy-to-make recipes that are perfect for any season:
- Roasted Red Pepper Soup – A sophisticated and flavorful upgrade to traditional tomato soup, this dish is fantastic served alongside a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich.
- Slow Cooker Chicken Soup – The ultimate classic comfort food, this chicken soup is incredibly easy to prepare in your slow cooker, yielding tender chicken and vegetables with minimal effort.
- Butternut Squash and Carrot Soup – Indulge in this naturally sweet and creamy soup, packed with healthy root vegetables and a velvety texture.
- Low-Carb Taco Soup – This fantastic keto-friendly recipe from Stay Snatched takes all your favorite vibrant taco flavors and transforms them into a hearty, delicious soup!
For exceptionally tender and delicious turkey leftovers, consider brining your turkey before cooking it. Check out this post on how to brine a turkey for easy, detailed instructions. Your family and guests will be amazed by how moist and flavorful your turkey turns out!
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a simple and delicious way to enjoy turkey without the whole bird, try cooking turkey legs in the crockpot. This method results in fall-off-the-bone tender turkey with minimal fuss!
Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe Card
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📋 Recipe Card Details
Easy Creamy Turkey Soup
Kristin King
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Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 celery stalk, sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium optional)
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups leftover cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 6 ounces egg noodles
Instructions
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In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter.
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Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables start to soften.
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Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.
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Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half and half until smooth. Add the parsley, oregano, mushrooms, cooked turkey, and egg noodles.
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Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 6-10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked to your preference. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed before serving hot.
Video
Notes
- Shortcut suggestions for faster prep:
- Use frozen diced onion.
- Buy pre-cleaned and pre-cut celery sticks.
- Look for carrot chips (already washed, peeled, and sliced).
- Opt for pre-sliced mushrooms.
- Utilize jarred minced garlic.
- Broth customization: Substitute low-sodium chicken broth for regular if you want to control the salt content. You can also use vegetable or bone broth.
- Dairy flexibility: For a lighter soup, use low-fat or fat-free half and half, or even whole milk.
- Flavor variations: Enhance the taste with additional seasonings like black pepper, a pinch of garlic powder, a dash of cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for extra zing. A bay leaf can also be added during simmering for more depth.
- Garnish for presentation: Sprinkle with a dash of smoked paprika for extra color, or fresh chopped parsley or dill for a vibrant finish when serving.
- Serving suggestions: This soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or as a side with grilled cheese sandwiches or other toasted delights.
Nutrition
Calories: 361kcal |
Carbohydrates: 32g |
Protein: 19g |
Fat: 18g |
Saturated Fat: 10g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 5g |
Trans Fat: 0.3g |
Cholesterol: 101mg |
Sodium: 757mg |
Potassium: 462mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 7g |
Vitamin A: 3926IU |
Vitamin C: 4mg |
Calcium: 129mg |
Iron: 2mg
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.
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