Name: Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter; 1 large yellow onion, finely diced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 bay leaf; 6-8 cups turkey or chicken broth, low sodium; 2 cups cooked leftover turkey, shredded or diced; 2 medium potatoes (e.g., Yukon Gold, Russet), peeled and diced ½-inch; 1 cup frozen peas; ½ cup frozen corn (optional); ½ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is the ultimate culinary hero for those moments after a grand holiday feast. Are you staring at a collection of turkey bones and a few forgotten slices of meat, wondering how to transform them into something truly spectacular and comforting? I know the feeling! It’s a classic post-holiday dilemma, but fear not, because this humble yet incredibly flavorful soup is here to save the day, and your taste buds.

Historically, making soup from leftover bones and scraps has been a time-honored tradition across countless cultures, a true testament to resourcefulness and an enduring appreciation for nourishing, comforting meals. It’s a practice that championed sustainability long before the term became popular, ensuring no part of a treasured meal goes to waste.

People absolutely adore this dish not just for its incredible taste – that deep, savory turkey broth, tender vegetables, and hearty chunks of meat – but also for the profound warmth and comfort it brings. It’s surprisingly simple to put together, transforming what might seem like mere scraps into a rich, soul-satisfying meal that feels like a cozy embrace in a bowl. This Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe offers a perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness, making the most of your holiday bounty with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter: For sautéing our aromatics and building a rich flavor foundation for your Easy Leftover Turkey Soup.
1 large yellow onion: Finely diced. This provides a sweet, aromatic base that’s essential for a truly comforting soup.
2 medium carrots: Peeled and diced into small, uniform pieces. They add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color.
2 celery stalks: Diced. Along with the onion and carrots, these form our classic mirepoix, the soul of so many delicious dishes.
2-3 cloves garlic: Minced. Garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor; adjust to your personal preference for garlic intensity.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, stripped from the stems. Thyme pairs wonderfully with turkey and vegetables, imparting an earthy, warm note.
1 bay leaf: A single bay leaf contributes a subtle, almost woodsy aroma that deepens the overall complexity of the soup. Remember to remove it before serving!
6-8 cups turkey or chicken broth: Low sodium is often a good choice, allowing you to control the seasoning precisely. This is the liquid foundation of our nourishing Easy Leftover Turkey Soup.
2 cups cooked leftover turkey: Shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces. This is the star of our show, giving purpose to those wonderful holiday leftovers! Make sure it’s fully cooked and cooled.
2 medium potatoes (e.g., Yukon Gold, Russet): Peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes. Potatoes add body and a satisfying heartiness to the soup. You can also use sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor profile.
1 cup frozen peas: No need to thaw. They add a pop of color and natural sweetness at the very end.
½ cup frozen corn (optional): If you like, for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
½ cup fresh parsley: Roughly chopped, for garnish and a fresh, vibrant finish.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste. We’ll be seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure every layer is delicious.
Optional additions for serving: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a swirl of heavy cream, crusty bread, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate this Easy Leftover Turkey Soup even further.

Prepping Our Ingredients for the Easy Leftover Turkey Soup

Before we even think about turning on the stove, the secret to a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience, especially for a dish like our Easy Leftover Turkey Soup, lies in thorough preparation. This stage is often called “mise en place,” a French culinary term meaning “everything in its place.” Trust me, taking a few extra minutes now will save you stress and allow you to fully enjoy the cooking process.

Shred or Dice Your Leftover Turkey: If you haven’t already, take your cooled, cooked leftover turkey and pull it apart into lovely, bite-sized shreds, or dice it neatly into small cubes. Aim for pieces that are easy to eat with a spoon. This is the star component of our Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe, so make sure it’s ready to go. You want about 2 cups, but don’t be shy if you have a little more – more turkey just means more deliciousness!
Master the Mirepoix: Our foundational aromatic vegetables – the onion, carrots, and celery – need to be prepped. Begin by peeling your onion, then carefully dicing it into uniform, small pieces. Consistency in size is key here, as it ensures everything cooks evenly. Next, peel your carrots. For soup, I like to dice them into ½-inch cubes or even slightly smaller so they become tender without being mushy. Finally, wash and trim your celery stalks, then dice them to match the size of your carrots. Having these three ready creates the classic “mirepoix” that builds the initial savory depth of our soup.
Mince the Garlic: Peel your garlic cloves. You can finely mince them with a knife, use a garlic press, or even grate them on a microplane if you prefer. The finer the chop, the more its flavor will disperse into the soup.
Peel and Dice Potatoes: If using potatoes, peel them and dice them into uniform ½-inch cubes. Place the diced potatoes in a bowl of cold water while you finish your other preparations. This prevents them from oxidizing and turning brown, and also removes some of the surface starch, which can make the soup cloudy.
Measure Your Broth and Herbs: Have your turkey or chicken broth measured out and ready. If using dried herbs like thyme, measure those out too. If you’re opting for fresh thyme, strip the leaves from the stems. Also, get your bay leaf ready.
Prepare Garnishes: While it might seem early, roughly chopping your fresh parsley now means it’s ready to sprinkle over your finished soup just before serving, adding that lovely fresh touch.
Gather Frozen Vegetables: Make sure your frozen peas and optional corn are easily accessible from the freezer, as they will be added towards the very end of the cooking process.
Set Up Your Cooking Station: Place all your prepped ingredients near your stovetop. This makes the actual cooking flow smoothly and effortlessly, truly embodying the “easy” in our Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe. Having everything organized will significantly enhance your cooking experience and ensure nothing is forgotten.

Building the Flavor Base: Sautéing Aromatics

This phase is absolutely crucial for developing the foundational flavors of our Easy Leftover Turkey Soup. It’s where the raw, individual ingredients start to meld and transform into something truly aromatic and delicious. Don’t rush this step; patience here is rewarded with incredible depth of flavor.

Heat the Fat: Place a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your 2 tablespoons of olive oil or unsalted butter. Let the oil shimmer or the butter melt completely and slightly foam. This indicates it’s hot enough to begin sautéing.
Sauté the Mirepoix: Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the hot fat. Stir well to coat all the vegetables. This is our mirepoix, and it’s going to build the savory backbone of our soup. Cook these vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes. What we’re aiming for here is for them to soften significantly and become translucent, especially the onions. We’re not looking for browning yet, but rather for them to “sweat” out their moisture and become tender. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen – that’s the beautiful beginning of our soup’s flavor.
Introduce the Garlic and Herbs: Once the mirepoix is soft and fragrant, add the minced garlic, dried thyme (or fresh, if using), and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir constantly for about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. The goal is to release its pungent, aromatic oils and let it infuse with the softening vegetables. The thyme will also release its earthy fragrance, weaving beautifully into the developing flavors. This step truly elevates the aromatic profile of your Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe.
Season Lightly: At this stage, add a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper to the vegetables. Seasoning in layers throughout the cooking process ensures every component is flavorful, rather than just adding a lot of salt at the end. This initial seasoning helps to draw out more moisture and flavor from the vegetables.

Simmering the Soup to Perfection

Now that our flavor base is robust and fragrant, it’s time to bring all the elements together and allow them to simmer, marrying their flavors into a cohesive, comforting dish. This is where our Easy Leftover Turkey Soup truly comes to life, evolving from individual ingredients into a harmonious meal.

Add Broth, Turkey, and Potatoes: Carefully pour in the 6-8 cups of turkey or chicken broth. If you saved any turkey drippings or juices from your holiday roast, feel free to incorporate a tablespoon or two here for an extra boost of turkey flavor – just be mindful of the salt content. Add your shredded or diced cooked turkey and the diced potatoes (drained from their cold water bath). Stir everything gently to combine. Ensure the potatoes are mostly submerged in the liquid; if not, add a little more broth or water until they are.
Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling merrily, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently. This low, slow simmer is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and for the potatoes to cook through. You’ll want to cook it for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Check periodically to make sure the soup isn’t boiling too vigorously; a gentle simmer is key to a clear broth and tender vegetables.
Check for Potato Tenderness: After about 15 minutes, carefully take a piece of potato out of the soup and test it with a fork. It should be easily pierced and tender, but not mushy. If it still has a bite, continue simmering for a few more minutes, checking every 3-5 minutes until it reaches your desired tenderness. The potatoes will absorb some of the wonderful broth, making them incredibly flavorful.
Incorporate Frozen Vegetables: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the frozen peas and the optional frozen corn. These vegetables cook very quickly and don’t need much time in the heat. Adding them now preserves their vibrant color and fresh texture. Continue to simmer for just another 3-5 minutes, or until the peas and corn are heated through and bright green. Overcooking them can lead to a dull color and softer texture, which we want to avoid for our visually appealing Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe.

Finishing Touches and Serving Your Hearty Turkey Soup

We’re in the home stretch! This final stage is all about fine-tuning the flavors, adding a fresh burst of aroma, and preparing your comforting bowl of Easy Leftover Turkey Soup for serving. It’s where your personal taste truly shines.

Adjust Seasoning: This is a critical step! Remove the bay leaf from the soup – it has done its job. Taste the soup carefully. Does it need more salt? A little more pepper? Perhaps a dash more dried thyme if you like a stronger herbal note? Remember that different broths have varying sodium levels, and your leftover turkey might be seasoned already. Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting after each addition, until the flavors are perfectly balanced to your liking. Don’t be afraid to season boldly; a well-seasoned soup is a delightful soup.
Add Fresh Parsley: Stir in about half of your freshly chopped parsley. This immediately brightens up the soup with its herbaceous aroma and fresh green color. The fresh parsley adds a wonderful counterpoint to the rich, savory broth and cooked vegetables.
Consider Optional Enhancements:
- A Squeeze of Lemon: For an extra layer of brightness and to cut through the richness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (about ½ to 1 tablespoon) stirred into the pot or into individual bowls can work wonders. It truly lifts all the flavors.
- A Swirl of Cream: If you desire a creamier, richer soup, you can stir in about ¼ to ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at this stage, gently heating it through without bringing it back to a boil. This transforms the soup into an even more decadent and comforting experience, perfect for a chilly evening.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes could be stirred in.
Serve Your Easy Leftover Turkey Soup: Ladle the steaming hot Easy Leftover Turkey Soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with the remaining fresh chopped parsley. You can also add a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese directly into individual bowls, if desired.
Enjoy and Store: Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping, a warm dinner roll, or a side salad. This soup is a fantastic way to use up those holiday leftovers and create a brand new, incredibly satisfying meal. Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or can be frozen for up to 3 months for a quick, comforting meal whenever you need it. Just be aware that potatoes can sometimes become a bit softer after freezing and thawing, but the flavor will still be fantastic. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it – my absolute favorite way to transform humble Thanksgiving or holiday leftovers into something truly spectacular. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of warmth, comfort, and incredible flavor that truly stands out. What makes this particular recipe a must-try for everyone is its brilliant simplicity combined with its deeply satisfying taste profile. We’re talking about a culinary alchemy that takes what might otherwise be discarded or eaten out of obligation and elevates it into a dish you’ll genuinely crave. It’s nourishing, hearty, and remarkably versatile, making it a perfect meal for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. This Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe truly shines as a post-holiday savior, ensuring that no flavorful morsel goes to waste.

I’ve shared this recipe with countless friends and family members over the years, and the feedback is always overwhelmingly positive. They love how straightforward it is to prepare, even after the exhaustion of a major holiday cooking marathon. There’s no complicated technique involved, just simple steps that lead to profound results. The rich broth, infused with the essence of turkey and aromatic vegetables, forms the perfect base, while the tender chunks of leftover meat ensure every spoonful is substantial and delicious. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl, a comforting antidote to the post-holiday blues. You’ll find yourself looking forward to having leftover turkey just so you can whip up another batch of this delightful soup. It’s an economical choice too, making the most of ingredients you already have on hand, which is always a win in my book. You absolutely must try this, not just for the incredible taste, but for the sheer ease and satisfaction it brings to your kitchen.

Elevate Your Serving Experience:

Now, while this soup is absolutely perfect enjoyed on its own, there are so many wonderful ways to serve it to enhance your dining experience. For a classic pairing, I love to serve it alongside a generous slice of crusty artisan bread, perhaps a sourdough or a rustic multi-grain loaf, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can also be a fantastic counterpoint, adding a touch of brightness and freshness. If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, consider grilling up a simple cheese sandwich or serving it with some cornbread muffins. Don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a lovely pop of color and herbaceousness. For those who enjoy a little zest, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can really brighten up the flavors. And if you’re a fan of heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a welcome kick. Think of these additions as simple ways to transform a comforting bowl into a complete and satisfying meal.

Endless Customization and Flavor Variations:

One of the things I adore most about this recipe is its incredible adaptability. Think of it as a canvas for your creativity! If you have other leftover roasted vegetables from your holiday feast, don’t hesitate to toss them in. Roasted carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes would be delightful additions, lending extra depth and nutrition. For an even heartier soup, consider adding some cooked rice, small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo, or even some egg noodles during the last few minutes of cooking. Want to boost the greens? A handful of fresh spinach or kale wilted into the hot soup just before serving is both delicious and healthy. You can also play with the spice profile; a touch of smoked paprika could add a lovely smoky note, or a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary would complement the turkey beautifully. For a creamier texture, a swirl of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt stirred in at the end can transform the soup into something even more decadent. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs – dill, sage, or even a bay leaf can introduce exciting new dimensions of flavor. This adaptability means you can make this soup uniquely your own every time you prepare it, ensuring it never gets boring. The possibilities for making this recipe truly your own are truly endless!

I truly hope you’ll give this incredible recipe a try the next time you find yourself with a bounty of leftover turkey. It’s a simple pleasure that delivers immense satisfaction. I promise, your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll feel so good knowing you’ve made the most of your holiday bounty. After you’ve whipped up your own batch, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the recipe, or did you add your own creative twist? What were your favorite additions or serving suggestions? Please feel free to share your thoughts, tips, and even photos of your delicious creations. Your feedback not only helps me, but it also inspires other home cooks in our community. Let’s make the most of those leftovers together and create something truly memorable!

There’s something incredibly rewarding about turning what might be considered ‘scraps’ into a comforting, wholesome meal that brings smiles all around. This particular Easy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe isn’t just about reducing waste; it’s about extending the warmth and generosity of the holiday table into everyday life. It’s an expression of care, a gesture of comfort, and a testament to the fact that some of the best meals are born from simplicity and resourcefulness. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure, unadulterated comfort. I’m already looking forward to making my next batch, and I sincerely hope you will too!