If you’re craving comfort and warmth in a bowl, this Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for transforming those holiday leftovers or any roast turkey remains, this soup is a vibrant medley of tender turkey, hearty vegetables, and wholesome greens simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and has this incredible way of making you feel cozy no matter the season. Once you try it, you’ll see why I keep coming back to this recipe time and time again.

Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this soup comes from simple, everyday ingredients that everyone usually has on hand, each adding its own special touch to the flavor and texture. From the aromatic herbs that elevate the broth to the fresh vegetables that add color and nutrition, these ingredients strike the perfect balance between soul-warming and light.

2 tablespoons olive oil: Gives a subtle richness and helps soften the aromatics.
1 onion, diced: Provides a sweet, savory base that deepens as it cooks.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a punch of fragrant warmth.
2 carrots, peeled and sliced: Offer natural sweetness and a bit of crunch.
2 celery stalks, sliced: Bring a fresh, herbal undertone and texture.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Contributes earthy, subtle floral notes.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Infuses a piney depth that pairs beautifully with turkey.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
6 cups chicken or turkey broth: The flavorful liquid heart of the soup.
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded: The star ingredient that keeps this soup hearty.
1 cup cooked rice, pasta, or noodles: Makes the soup feel more filling and comforting.
1 cup frozen peas: Pops of sweetness and lovely green freshness.
2 cups spinach or kale: Boosts nutrition and adds a lovely leafy texture.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together perfectly.
Fresh parsley, for garnish: A bright, herbal finish that lifts the whole dish.

How to Make Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Toss in your diced onion and minced garlic, allowing them to gently cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they release their wonderful fragrance and the onion turns translucent. This step builds a flavorful base that makes your soup truly sing.

Step 2: Cook the vegetables with herbs

Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot along with the dried thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Let everything mingle and soften together for 5 to 7 minutes. The vegetables will develop a tender texture, while the herbs infuse the dish with those quintessential warm, earthy notes that marry so well with turkey.

Step 3: Add broth and simmer

Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil before lowering the heat to a simmer. Allow this to cook for 15 minutes to deepen the flavors and ensure the vegetables are perfectly tender.

Step 4: Incorporate turkey and cooked grains

Stir in your shredded cooked turkey along with the cooked rice, pasta, or noodles. These hearty ingredients turn this simple soup into a nourishing meal that’s ideal for chilly evenings. Let everything heat through for a few minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add the greens and peas

Finally, toss in the frozen peas and your choice of spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the peas are tender but still vibrant. This step adds freshness and a pop of color, making your soup as nutritious as it is delicious.

Step 6: Season to taste

Now comes the finishing touch: season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir and take a moment to savor the aroma before ladling it into bowls.

Step 7: Serve and garnish

Dish out the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a fresh herbal note. Your comforting, flavorful Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that brightens up the entire bowl. You can also try a squeeze of lemon juice for a little zing, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you want a creamy salty touch. Crumbled crispy bacon or toasted nuts are unexpected toppings that add delightfully crunchy texture.

Side Dishes

A warm crusty bread, like a baguette or sourdough, is perfect for dunking into this hearty soup. Alternatively, serve alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter pairing, or some buttery garlic rolls to keep things indulgent. For a more substantial meal, a side of roasted root vegetables complements the soup’s rustic flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, serve the soup in rustic mugs or mini cast iron pots at casual gatherings. You could also ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls for a cozy, edible serving vessel that’s both charming and practical. If you’re hosting a holiday dinner, brightening it up with microgreens or edible flowers offers an elegant finish that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and let the flavors meld even further. Before enjoying the leftovers, give it a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed.

Freezing

If you want to keep this fantastic Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe on hand, freezing is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and make sure the soup is cooled completely before freezing. It stays good for up to 3 months, so you’ve always got a comforting meal ready when time is short.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Microwave reheating works too but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking the greens or turkey.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in the Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add whatever you have on hand, like diced potatoes, zucchini, or green beans. Just keep in mind cooking times of different vegetables and add them accordingly.

Is it necessary to add greens like spinach or kale?

While not mandatory, adding spinach or kale boosts the nutrition and enhances the fresh flavor profile. If you don’t have these on hand, you can omit or substitute with other leafy greens like Swiss chard or collard greens.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

You can adapt the recipe by using vegetable broth and omitting the turkey. Add beans, lentils, or tofu for protein and extra heartiness, and adjust the herbs and seasoning to your taste.

What is the best way to shred leftover turkey for the soup?

Using your hands works great for shredding turkey, or you can use two forks to pull apart the meat into bite-sized pieces. Avoid chopping too finely so you can enjoy the texture of the turkey in the soup.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! After sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer all ingredients except the greens to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, then stir in the peas and spinach in the last 15 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for using up holiday turkey or just making a simple, satisfying meal any time of year. I hope you give it a try and enjoy both the process and the delicious result as much as I do. Here’s to many cozy bowls ahead!