Turkey noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and nourishment to every spoonful. This homemade recipe is easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and a great way to use up leftover turkey.
The combination of tender turkey, wholesome vegetables, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked egg noodles creates a rich, flavorful soup that the whole family will love.
1. Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe (8 Servings)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 1 celery rib, chopped
- 8 cups (2 quarts) chicken broth or turkey broth (see note 1)
- 3 cups cooked turkey, chopped or shredded
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, minced, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Turkey
Pour in the chicken or turkey broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cooked turkey, fresh thyme, and bay leaf. Cover the pot partially and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a low boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
Step 4: Season and Garnish
Once the noodles are tender, taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf, then stir in fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
2. Tips for Perfect Turkey Noodle Soup
Use Homemade Broth for Maximum Flavor
If you have time, making your own turkey broth from leftover turkey bones enhances the depth of flavor. Simmer the bones with water, herbs, and vegetables for a few hours, then strain the broth for a rich and homemade taste.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles
Egg noodles absorb liquid quickly and can become mushy if left in the soup too long. To prevent this, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls when serving. If adding directly to the soup, serve immediately.
Enhance the Flavor with Herbs and Spices
Thyme and bay leaf bring warmth to the broth, but a pinch of garlic powder, a splash of lemon juice, or even a little grated Parmesan can elevate the soup even further.
Use a Mix of Dark and White Turkey Meat
Dark meat adds a richer, juicier texture, while white meat keeps the soup lean and light. A combination of both makes the soup well-balanced and flavorful.
Add Extra Vegetables for More Nutrients
Mushrooms, spinach, peas, or corn can be great additions to this soup, making it heartier and more nutritious.
3. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you plan to keep it longer, freeze the soup (without the noodles) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
On the Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, add a little extra broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
In the Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
For Frozen Soup: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If frozen without noodles, cook fresh noodles separately and add them when serving.
This turkey noodle soup is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort in every bite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—fresh ingredients, a rich broth, and perfectly cooked noodles make it a go-to dish for chilly days or when you need a nourishing meal.
Personally, I love making this soup after Thanksgiving, using up leftover turkey to create something just as delicious as the holiday feast. The aroma of the simmering broth filling the kitchen is one of my favorite things about this recipe.
Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to make it your own by adding different herbs, vegetables, or even a dash of cream for extra richness. Enjoy every comforting spoonful! 🍲
