If you’re searching for a supremely comforting, hearty, and simple meal, Turkey Soup is the homestyle hug-in-a-bowl you simply can’t miss. Combining tender chunks of turkey, wholesome vegetables, and cozy herbs in a savory broth, this Turkey Soup transforms leftovers into something extraordinary — all in just over half an hour. Whether you’re craving a classic post-holiday remedy or a way to make a weeknight dinner shine, this recipe delivers every time with its satisfying warmth and zing of fresh flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may look wonderfully basic, but together they create a colorful and delicious Turkey Soup that lets each component shine. Every addition has a purpose, from the sweet base built by veggies to the brightness added by a squeeze of lemon. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient is a key player:

Olive oil: Offers a silky base for sautéing the veggies and adds an earthy undertone.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Provides sweetness and depth as the starting flavor foundation.
Carrots (3, peeled and sliced): Add color, gentle sweetness, and heartiness to every spoonful.
Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Infuses an aromatic pop and classic soup crunch.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings warmth and a savory backbone that ties everything together.
Low-sodium chicken or turkey broth (8 cups): The soul of the soup; helps all flavors marry while keeping the dish light.
Cooked turkey (2 cups, shredded or chopped): Makes this Turkey Soup extra hearty and helps reduce food waste after holiday feasts.
Egg noodles or pasta of choice (1 cup): Adds comforting body and makes the soup more filling; swap for rice or barley if you like.
Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Brings a rustic, woodsy flavor perfect for poultry and veggies alike.
Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Brightens the overall flavor and boosts the herbal notes.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For gentle heat and a little depth.
Salt (to taste): Essential for rounding out and amplifying every ingredient.
Lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon, optional): A squeeze at the end wakes up all the flavors and cuts through the richness beautifully.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): Offers a peppery freshness and a pop of green right before serving.

How to Make Turkey Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté this trio for about 5 to 7 minutes. Watch as the onions start to turn translucent and the carrots and celery soften — these aromatic vegetables will build that classic Turkey Soup base we all love.

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute. You’ll smell the transformation instantly as your kitchen fills with the gentle warmth of garlic, awakening the senses and hinting at the flavor-packed journey ahead.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Gently pour in your chicken or turkey broth. This is the moment the liquid gold brings everything together, lifting those caramelized vegetable bits from the bottom of the pot and setting the stage for a cozy, nourishing Turkey Soup.

Step 4: Introduce the Turkey and Noodles

Add your cooked turkey and egg noodles (or whatever pasta, rice, or grain you prefer) to the bubbling broth. Stir in the thyme, parsley, black pepper, and a pinch of salt, allowing these dried herbs to release their fragrance into the soup as it simmers.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, and let your Turkey Soup cook for 10 to 12 minutes. You’re looking for perfectly tender noodles and melding flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if you love a little extra punch.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon and Fresh Parsley

If you enjoy a hit of fresh acidity, squeeze in the lemon juice and stir it through just before serving. This makes the entire pot taste even brighter and more vibrant. Ladle hot soup into bowls and finish with a flurry of fresh parsley for garnish.

How to Serve Turkey Soup

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley instantly elevates your Turkey Soup, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Sometimes a twist of cracked black pepper, a dash of chili flakes, or even shavings of parmesan can add a flavor boost and a touch of elegance to your serving bowls.

Side Dishes

Turkey Soup pairs wonderfully with a thick slice of crusty bread or a warm, buttery roll — perfect for dunking into the golden broth. For a lighter touch, try a green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the soup’s warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Turkey Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible vessel that doubles as a crowd-pleaser. Or portion it into small mugs for an appetizer-style starter at gatherings. Little ones will love the soup served with alphabet pasta for a playful take!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Turkey Soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making each reheated bowl just as satisfying as the first.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze some Turkey Soup for future cozy meals, simply let it cool, ladle it into freezer-safe containers (leave a little space for expansion), and freeze up to three months. For best texture, consider holding off on adding the noodles until you reheat, as they can get a bit soft when thawed.

Reheating

Warm leftover soup gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the noodles have soaked up a lot of broth, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or extra stock to bring your Turkey Soup back to its perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Turkey Soup without noodles?

Absolutely! You can swap the noodles for rice, barley, or even extra vegetables if you prefer a lower-carb or gluten-free option. The soup is highly adaptable and just as tasty with your favorite add-ins.

How do I use raw turkey instead of cooked?

If you only have raw turkey, dice it into small pieces and add it to the pot right after the garlic. Sauté until lightly browned and cooked through, then proceed with the recipe as written for fantastic results.

What herbs can I play with in Turkey Soup?

While thyme and parsley are classic, feel free to experiment with rosemary, sage, or even tarragon for a slightly different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can be sprinkled at the end for a herbal pop, too!

How do I prevent my noodles from getting mushy?

If you plan to store the soup for later, cook the noodles separately and add them to each serving when you reheat. This way, they keep their lovely texture even after a few days in the fridge or freezer.

Is this soup dairy-free and kid-friendly?

Yes! This Turkey Soup is naturally dairy-free and typically a big hit with kids, thanks to its mild, soothing flavors. You can always adjust seasonings or use fun-shaped pasta to make it extra appealing for young eaters.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something truly special about a pot of Turkey Soup bubbling away—it’s more than a meal, it’s a reminder of comfort, connection, and the joy of making something wonderful from simple ingredients. Give this recipe a try and let it warm your kitchen and your heart, no matter the season.

Turkey Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade Turkey Soup, perfect for using up leftover turkey. This hearty soup is filled with tender vegetables, turkey, and flavorful herbs in a savory broth.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Soup Base:

8 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
1 cup egg noodles or pasta of choice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly.
Add Broth and Ingredients: Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Stir in turkey, noodles, thyme, parsley, pepper, and salt.
Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until noodles are tender.
Finish and Serve: Stir in lemon juice if using. Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.