Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a creamy, comforting soup with this easy recipe. This dish combines tender turkey, savory broth, and rich flavors, making it the perfect way to warm up after the holidays.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr 35 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs
Servings: 16
Ingredients for Creamy Turkey Soup
For the Broth:
- 1 turkey carcass
- Water (enough to cover the carcass)
For the Soup:
- 1 cup butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 4 ounces fettuccine, broken into 2-inch pieces
- ¼ cup prepared stuffing (optional, or more to taste)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pinch poultry seasoning (to taste)
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Turkey Broth
- Place the turkey carcass in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover with water.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
- Remove the carcass and let it cool. Separate the turkey meat from the bones and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Reserve 12 cups of turkey broth in a large bowl. Save any extra broth for future use.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook and stir until tender, about 5 minutes.
Thicken the Base
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir until smooth, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Gradually stir in 4 cups of the reserved turkey broth. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Combine and Simmer
- Add the remaining 8 cups of turkey broth to the pot.
- Stir in turkey meat, half-and-half, fettuccine, stuffing, salt, bouillon, pepper, and poultry seasoning.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the noodles are tender, about 10 minutes.
Recipe Tips for the Perfect Turkey Soup
- Roast for Flavor: Roast the turkey carcass at 350°F for one hour before boiling for a deeper flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly soup.
- Vegetable Additions: Add chopped zucchini or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients.
Why This Recipe Fits Your Lifestyle
This creamy turkey soup is high in protein, making it perfect for post-holiday meals. It uses leftover ingredients efficiently, ensuring nothing goes to waste. By substituting gluten-free flour, this recipe becomes suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy turkey soup with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh garden salad. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.