Name: Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490202H20M14S
Total time: PT-490202H20M14S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups homemade turkey stock, or low sodium canned; 1 bay leaf; Salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup diced carrot; 3/4 cup chopped onion; 3/4 cup diced celery; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 3 oz uncooked egg noodles (such as no-yolk noodles); 2 cups leftover shredded turkey (about 8 ounces)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

If you have some turkey left over from a hearty holiday meal or a simple roast, you absolutely must try this Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe. It’s comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully easy to put together, turning those bits of turkey into a warm bowl of goodness. This soup is not only a fantastic way to stretch your leftovers but also a cozy, satisfying dinner that everyone will love. From the tender shredded turkey to the bright veggies and slippery noodles, every spoonful feels like a big, comforting hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white pot filled with a clear brown broth. Inside the broth, there are small white pieces of chopped onion and light green slices of celery floating evenly. In the center, a single brown bay leaf lies on the surface, surrounded by a small pile of black pepper. The pot rests on a white marbled surface with a dark gray cloth on the lower right side. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to this soup’s success. Each component adds something special: the turkey stock brings depth, the veggies add color and texture, and the herbs brighten everything up. You’ll see how these modest ingredients harmonize to create something truly delicious.

6 cups homemade turkey stock or low sodium canned stock: The flavor base that makes this soup rich and savory without being heavy.
1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle herbaceous note that deepens the broth’s complexity.
1 cup diced carrot: Sweetness and a splash of vibrant orange to brighten the bowl.
3/4 cup chopped onion: Provides a mild sweetness and foundational savory flavor once softened.
3/4 cup diced celery: Delivers a gentle, fresh crunch and aromatic backbone.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with warmth and a touch of pungency.
Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors in the pot.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of sharpness and depth.
1/4 cup chopped parsley: Gives the soup a fresh, herbal burst just before serving.
3 oz uncooked egg noodles (no-yolk preferred): Perfectly tender noodles that soak up the broth wonderfully.
2 cups leftover shredded turkey (about 8 ounces): The star ingredient, adding protein and that irresistible turkey flavor.

How to Make Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Simmer the Vegetables

Start by pouring your turkey stock into a large saucepan and warming it over medium heat. Add the bay leaf, diced carrots, chopped onion, diced celery, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let everything simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and release their flavors into the broth, creating a wonderfully fragrant base for the soup.

Step 2: Add Noodles, Turkey, and Parsley

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the chopped parsley, uncooked egg noodles, and the shredded leftover turkey. Follow the noodle package directions for cooking time, usually around 5 minutes, until the noodles are perfectly tender but not mushy. The turkey heats through quickly, so it stays juicy and delicious.

Step 3: Final Touches and Serve

Before ladling the soup into bowls, remember to remove the bay leaf – it’s done its magic but isn’t pleasant to eat. Giving the soup a final taste, adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed, then serve while hot. Each bowl will be packed with flavor, warming you from the inside out.

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe

A large white pot filled with chicken noodle soup, showing three main layers: at the bottom, broth with small pieces of celery and onions creating a light golden base; above that, bright yellow wide egg noodles curling into waves and mixed with scattered chunks of shredded white chicken; on top, diced orange carrots and sprinkles of fresh chopped green herbs are spread evenly, adding color and texture contrast, all visible under soft lighting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley over each bowl adds a burst of green color and fresh flavor that brightens every spoonful. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a touch of brightness or a few cracked black pepper flakes for extra bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with some crusty bread or a warm, buttery biscuit to round out the meal perfectly. A crisp green salad alongside your bowl adds refreshing crunch and balances the comforting warmth of the soup. For a heartier option, roasted vegetables or a simple grilled cheese complement the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an extra cozy feel. You could also garnish with crunchy fried onions or even a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche to add creaminess. Serving it family-style in a big, rustic pot invites everyone to dig in and feel at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and freshness. The noodles might soak up some broth over time, so you can add a splash of stock or water when reheating to loosen it up and bring back the perfect consistency.

Freezing

You can definitely freeze this Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe, but it’s best to freeze the broth and turkey separately from the noodles if possible, as noodles tend to get mushy. Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick or the noodles have absorbed too much liquid, add a bit of stock or water to loosen it. Avoid reheating too quickly or at high heat to keep the turkey tender and the noodles intact.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought turkey stock?

Absolutely! While homemade turkey stock gives the soup a richer flavor, good-quality low sodium store-bought stock works perfectly and saves time without compromising taste.

What type of noodles are best?

Egg noodles are classic for this soup because of their tender texture and ability to absorb broth nicely. No-yolk egg noodles are a great choice for extra flavor, but any pasta you like can be used.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can easily switch to a vegetable broth and omit turkey to make a vegetarian version. Boost the protein with beans or lentils and pile up the veggies to keep the soup hearty and satisfying.

How long does this soup take to prepare?

One of the best things about this Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe is that it’s quick. From start to finish, it’s about 20 to 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without fuss.

Is it okay to add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in peas, corn, mushrooms, or spinach to customize your soup according to what you have on hand and your flavor preferences. Just add them during the simmering step or when you add the noodles depending on the vegetable.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket after a long day. It’s a fantastic, nourishing way to use up leftover turkey, and every spoonful bursts with warmth and flavor. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or just craving comfort food, this soup is a must-make staple that will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need