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
- Place the turkey carcass in a large stockpot. Pour chicken broth over it to mostly cover the bones.
- Add onion, celery, and garlic to the pot.
- 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
- Remove the turkey carcass from the pot and let it cool.
- Take out the onion, celery, and garlic from the broth. Blend them with ½ cup of the stock until smooth.
- Pour the puréed vegetable mixture back into the broth to enhance the soup’s texture and flavor.
Finishing the Soup
- Shred any remaining meat from the turkey carcass and add it to the broth.
- Stir in chopped turkey breast, frozen vegetables, rice, and kidney beans.
- Season the soup with oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 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.