Homemade Turkey Bone Soup: A Hearty Post-Holiday Delight

Make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers with this homemade turkey bone soup recipe. Packed with veggies, beans, and rice, it’s a hearty, protein-rich meal that satisfies every craving.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 50 mins
Servings: 12

Ingredients for Turkey Bone Soup

For the Broth:

• 1 cooked turkey carcass
• 4 (14-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 stalk celery, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed

For the Soup:

• 2 cups chopped cooked turkey breast
• 1 (16-ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

Making the Broth

1. Place the turkey carcass in a large stockpot. Pour chicken broth over it to mostly cover the bones.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Cover the pot and simmer for 2 hours, turning the carcass occasionally for even cooking.

Preparing the Soup Base

1. Remove the turkey carcass from the pot and let it cool.
2. Take out the onion, celery, and garlic from the broth. Blend them with ½ cup of the stock until smooth.
3. Pour the puréed vegetable mixture back into the broth to enhance the soup’s texture and flavor.

Finishing the Soup

1. Shred any remaining meat from the turkey carcass and add it to the broth.
2. Stir in chopped turkey breast, frozen vegetables, rice, and kidney beans.
3. Season the soup with oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Why This Recipe Fits Your Diet

This turkey bone soup is naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and packed with vegetables. It’s a perfect dish for post-holiday meal prep. The addition of kidney beans and rice provides a satisfying balance of carbohydrates and fiber, making it an ideal choice for wholesome family dinners.

Tips for Customizing Your Soup

Flavor Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fragrant twist.

Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly alternative.

Extra Protein: Add more beans or diced turkey for an even heartier meal.