Creamy Turkey Soup Recipe: A Comforting and Delicious Way to Use Leftover Turkey

There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning leftover turkey into a rich and creamy soup that warms you from the inside out. Whether you have extra turkey from a holiday dinner or simply want a comforting bowl of soup, this creamy turkey soup recipe is a must-try. With hearty vegetables, tender turkey, and a velvety cream base, it’s a meal that’s easy to make and satisfying for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Turkey Soup Recipe

This creamy turkey soup recipe is ideal for cold nights when you want something filling and delicious. It’s an excellent way to repurpose leftover turkey, but it also works well with cooked chicken. The balance of flavors from vegetables, herbs, and a touch of cream creates a soup that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrition. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or add-ins, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Recipe Overview: Creamy Turkey Soup

Our creamy turkey soup combines shredded turkey with carrots, celery, onions, and a hint of garlic. The broth is thickened with a roux and finished with cream for a smooth, luscious texture. A dash of herbs adds aroma and flavor, while the creaminess brings all the ingredients together in perfect harmony. This is a soup you’ll want to enjoy with crusty bread for dipping, as it’s incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter soup, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, though the soup will be slightly thinner. For added richness, consider using turkey drippings along with the broth. Vegetarians can replace turkey with white beans and vegetable broth. Additionally, gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour to thicken the soup without gluten.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Turkey Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This will create a roux and help thicken the soup.
3. Add the Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken or turkey broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Add Turkey and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded turkey, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes to develop the flavors.
5. Finish with Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes to warm through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy with warm, crusty bread or crackers.

Tips and Tricks

For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the turkey. This creates a thicker base while keeping chunks of vegetables and meat intact. If you’re making this soup with leftover turkey, add the turkey towards the end to prevent it from becoming overcooked and tough.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This creamy turkey soup recipe yields approximately 6 servings. It’s wonderful on its own but pairs well with a side of fresh bread or even a simple salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a warm biscuit. A crisp white wine or a light ale complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Sodium: 780mg

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of broth to reach the desired consistency. Avoid freezing, as the cream can separate when thawed, altering the soup’s texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use raw turkey for this recipe?

Yes, you can use raw turkey, though it will require a longer cooking time to ensure the turkey is fully cooked. Add raw, diced turkey after the vegetables and allow it to cook through before adding the cream.

What if I don’t have turkey on hand?

This recipe works equally well with cooked chicken, making it a versatile choice. Simply swap out the turkey for chicken and follow the same instructions.

Can I add potatoes to this soup?

Absolutely. Adding diced potatoes makes this soup even heartier. Just add them with the broth and cook until they’re tender before adding the cream.

Conclusion

This creamy turkey soup recipe is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey while creating a comforting, flavorful dish. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have a bowl of warm, satisfying soup that’s ideal for any occasion. Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!