Turkey Noodle Soup For ultimate comfort has been a staple in my home for as long as I can remember. I still vividly recall the aroma of simmering broth, tender turkey, and soft noodles filling my grandmother’s kitchen after every holiday. It was her secret weapon for transforming simple leftovers into a heartwarming meal that instantly made everything feel right. This particular comforting turkey noodle soup recipe isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up. The simple act of preparing this easy turkey noodle soup from scratch brings such joy. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Noodle Soup
I promise you, this isn’t just any ordinary soup; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to any dinner table. Here’s why I know you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:
- It’s incredibly delicious, with rich flavors and tender turkey that will soothe your soul.
- This easy turkey noodle soup comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s packed with nourishing vegetables and lean protein, offering a healthy meal option for the whole family.
- Using leftover turkey makes this a wonderfully budget-friendly dish, reducing food waste and saving money.
- The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this another easy turkey noodle soup that even beginner cooks can master.
- Everyone, from little ones to grown-ups, will enjoy a bowl of this comforting, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients for Homemade Turkey Noodle Soup
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this wonderfully comforting soup. I love how simple yet impactful each component is:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded – perfect for using up holiday leftovers or a rotisserie chicken.
- 2 cups egg noodles – I prefer medium-wide egg noodles for that classic soup texture.
- 2 carrots, sliced – these add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to our turkey noodle soup with vegetables.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – essential for that aromatic base we all love in a good soup.
- 1 medium onion, diced – the foundation of flavor, making the broth deep and savory.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is non-negotiable for boosting the overall taste.
- 8 cups chicken or turkey broth – use a good quality broth for the best flavor; low sodium is a great option.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter – for sautéing our vegetables to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – this herb complements turkey beautifully, adding warmth.
- 1 bay leaf – a secret weapon for depth, just remember to remove it before serving.
- Salt, to taste – always season as you go!
- Black pepper, to taste – a fresh grind makes all the difference.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – for a bright, fresh finish.
How to Make Turkey Noodle Soup from Scratch
Making this delightful Turkey Noodle Soup from scratch is a straightforward and rewarding process. I’ll guide you through each step to ensure your soup turns out perfectly comforting and flavorful, just like a classic homemade meal should be. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create such a wonderful dish!
- Step 1: Begin by preparing your aromatic base. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your diced onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become fragrant. You’ll notice their sweet aromas beginning to fill your kitchen.
- Step 2: Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for just 1 minute more, or until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter. This quick step is crucial for building a deep flavor profile for your Turkey Noodle Soup.
- Step 3: Pour in the 8 cups of chicken or turkey broth. Add the 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and the 1 bay leaf. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it gently bubble for 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich broth that is the heart of any truly classic turkey noodle soup.
- Step 4: Now it’s time to add the star of our soup. Stir in the 2 cups of shredded cooked turkey. Let the turkey heat through in the simmering broth for another 5 to 7 minutes. This step is important because it allows the turkey to soak up all the delicious, herbaceous flavors from the broth, making each bite incredibly tender and juicy.
- Step 5: Finally, add the 2 cups of egg noodles directly to the soup. Simmer according to the package instructions, which is typically around 8 to 10 minutes, until the noodles are tender but still have a slight chew. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Step 6: Taste the Turkey Noodle Soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. For a final flourish, stir in the 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley just before dishing it out. This adds a burst of fresh color and herbaceousness that truly elevates this homemade Turkey Noodle Soup.
Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Noodle Soup
I’ve made my fair share of Turkey Noodle Soup over the years, and I’ve picked up a few tricks that consistently yield the most delicious results. These simple tips will elevate your homemade soup from good to absolutely amazing every single time.
- Always use a high-quality broth, or even better, homemade turkey stock for unparalleled depth of flavor.
- Don’t overcook your noodles; add them towards the end of the cooking process to keep them perfectly al dente.
- Fresh herbs, especially parsley or dill added at the very end, make a huge difference in brightness and aroma.
- For an extra layer of flavor, roast your vegetables slightly before adding them to the pot.
What’s the secret to perfect Turkey Noodle Soup?
The real secret to the best Turkey Noodle Soup lies in a technique called “building layers of flavor.” This means sautéing your aromatics (onions, carrots, celery) until deeply softened before adding broth. It creates a richer, more complex base that makes all the difference.
Can I make Turkey Noodle Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the broth and vegetables portion of your Turkey Noodle Soup up to 2-3 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the broth and add the cooked turkey and noodles fresh for the best texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Turkey Noodle Soup?
To avoid mushy noodles, cook them separately and add them to individual bowls, or add them to the pot only for the last 8-10 minutes of simmering. Also, don’t overcook your turkey; it’s already cooked, so it just needs to heat through. Finally, always taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
Best Ways to Serve Turkey Noodle Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Turkey Noodle Soup to bring comfort and satisfaction. I love serving this soup as a complete meal, but a few simple additions can truly elevate the experience. It makes for a wonderfully simple turkey noodle soup for dinner, especially on a chilly evening.
My go-to pairing is always a crusty piece of bread or a warm, buttery roll for dipping. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth. Sometimes, I’ll whip up a quick grilled cheese sandwich; the cheesy goodness is a fantastic contrast to the light, flavorful soup.
For a lighter option, a fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and balances the meal beautifully. This Turkey Noodle Soup is so versatile, you can enjoy it exactly how you like!
Nutrition Facts for Turkey Noodle Soup
I find it helpful to know what I’m nourishing my body with, so here are the estimated nutrition facts per serving (this recipe makes 6 servings) for my delicious Turkey Noodle Soup:
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary slightly based on the specific brands and ingredients you choose for your Turkey Noodle Soup.
How to Store and Reheat Turkey Noodle Soup
One of the best things about making a big batch of this delicious soup is having plenty of leftover turkey noodle soup ideas for later enjoyment. Proper storage is key to maintaining its fresh taste and quality. I always make sure to let the soup cool down completely before transferring it.
For refrigeration, pour the cooled Turkey Noodle Soup into airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week. Just grab a container and reheat!
If you’re planning for longer storage, this soup freezes wonderfully. Transfer cooled soup (without noodles, if possible, to prevent mushiness upon reheating) into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If you froze it without noodles, cook fresh noodles and add them after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Noodle Soup
What is turkey noodle soup good for?
Turkey noodle soup is incredibly versatile and good for so many things! It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey from a holiday meal, transforming it into a fresh, comforting dish. Beyond that, it’s a deeply nourishing and hydrating meal, often recommended to soothe a cold or simply provide a warm, satisfying dinner. My family always reaches for it when we need a little comfort and a healthy boost.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey in this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe highlights delicious turkey noodle soup, you can easily substitute cooked, shredded chicken for the turkey. The flavors will still be wonderful, and it works perfectly if you have leftover rotisserie chicken on hand. The cooking method remains the same, ensuring a delicious and hearty soup either way.
How can I make my turkey noodle soup creamier?
If you prefer a creamier texture for your turkey noodle soup, I have a great tip! After the vegetables have softened and before adding the broth, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch to create a roux. Cook for a minute, then slowly whisk in the broth. Alternatively, you can stir in about 1/2 cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk at the very end of cooking, just before serving, for a rich and velvety finish.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives for turkey noodle soup?
Yes, you can certainly adapt this recipe to be vegetarian! For a vegetarian noodle soup, simply omit the turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey broth. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to boost the heartiness and flavor. It won’t be turkey noodle soup, but it will still be a wonderfully comforting and nutritious meal.
Variations of Turkey Noodle Soup You Can Try
While my classic Turkey Noodle Soup recipe is a beloved staple, I also love experimenting with different variations to keep things exciting. These tweaks can cater to different dietary needs or simply introduce new flavor profiles. Don’t be afraid to get creative in your kitchen!
- Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup: For a richer, more indulgent version, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a splash of evaporated milk during the last few minutes of cooking. This transforms it into a luscious, comforting bowl.
- Spicy Southwest Turkey Noodle Soup: Add a diced jalapeño, a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a pinch of chili powder. A squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens everything up.
- Healthy Turkey Noodle Soup with Greens: Boost the nutrition by stirring in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt beautifully, adding vitamins and a lovely color without altering the core flavor too much.
- Gluten-Free Turkey Noodle Soup: Simply swap out traditional egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free egg noodle alternatives that work perfectly in this soup.
Turkey Noodle Soup For 1 Ultimate Comfort: A Joyful Meal
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This hearty turkey noodle soup is a comforting meal ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for using leftover turkey, featuring tender meat, egg noodles, and nourishing vegetables for a delicious and easy dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken or turkey broth. Add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Stir in the shredded cooked turkey. Let the turkey heat through in the simmering broth for 5–7 minutes, allowing it to soak up the delicious flavors of the soup.
- Add the egg noodles directly to the soup and simmer according to package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste the turkey noodle soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf and thyme stems. Stir in chopped fresh parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken if you don’t have leftover turkey for this turkey noodle soup.
- For a gluten-free version of this homemade turkey noodle soup, swap in gluten-free noodles.
- Cooking the noodles separately helps prevent mushiness, especially if you plan to store leftover turkey noodle soup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg