Turkey Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Turkey Soup recipe is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for using up leftover turkey. Packed with tender turkey, nutritious vegetables, and savory chicken broth, it’s a nourishing dish ideal for cold days or as a light, satisfying dinner. With its simplicity and versatility, you can easily customize the flavors by adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings. This quick and easy recipe will become your go-to comfort food for busy nights or holiday leftovers!
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked turkey meat, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the celery into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, chopped vegetables, and shredded turkey.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or crackers if desired.
Notes
- Add More Vegetables: Customize the soup with potatoes, green beans, or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, chili powder, or diced jalapeños if you like a little heat.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half near the end of cooking for a creamy variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: A simple, straightforward recipe that comes together in no time.
- Hearty and Nourishing: Full of vegetables, lean turkey, and flavorful broth, making it a balanced meal.
- Perfect for Leftovers: An excellent way to use up leftover turkey from a holiday feast or Sunday roast.
- Versatile: You can easily add more vegetables or seasonings to customize it to your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb cooked turkey meat, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the celery into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, chopped vegetables, and shredded turkey.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add potatoes, green beans, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half toward the end for a richer, creamier soup.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, leftover chicken works just as well in this soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
What can I serve with turkey soup?
Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great alternative if you want a vegetarian version of this soup.
How can I make the soup more filling?
You can add pasta or rice to make the soup more hearty.
Can I add beans to the soup?
Yes, beans like white beans or kidney beans are a great addition for extra protein and fiber.
How do I make this soup spicier?
Add some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or chopped green chilies to give it a spicy kick.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be substituted for fresh ones if needed.
Can I use canned turkey meat instead of fresh?
You can use canned turkey meat, but fresh or leftover turkey will give the soup a better texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Turkey Soup is a quick, easy, and delicious way to use up leftover turkey and create a comforting meal. With tender turkey, savory broth, and healthy vegetables, it’s the perfect dish for chilly days or when you want a simple, satisfying dinner.