This delicious turkey soup made from turkey meat leftovers without carcass is the perfect way to transform that post-Thanksgiving turkey into a soul-soothing soup that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. Don’t let those leftovers go to waste; let’s dive into this recipe and create a bowl of pure deliciousness!
Thanksgiving has come and gone, leaving behind a whirlwind of family, laughter, and of course, heaps of leftover turkey meat. Now, what’s a savvy chef like you supposed to do with all that post-holiday poultry goodness?
Fear not, because I’ve got the perfect solution for you: a tantalizing turkey soup using the leftover turkey meat without carcass! This recipe is not only a lifesaver for utilizing those turkey leftovers, but it also promises to transform them into a whole new level of deliciousness.
Now, let’s dive into the ingredient lineup, shall we? We’ve got some trusty kitchen heroes like aromatic onion and garlic, vibrant carrots for that pop of color, and the versatile all-purpose flour that will lend a silky texture to our soup.
And to give it that irresistible depth of flavor, we’ll be using rich and comforting chicken broth. But wait, it gets even better!
We’re going to elevate this soup to creamy perfection by adding a splash of cream, making it feel like a warm hug for your palate.
Now, here comes the star of the show: our leftover turkey breast. Tender, juicy, and brimming with memories of the Thanksgiving feast, it’s about to take center stage in this soup.
Oh, and let’s not forget about the pasta! Because, let’s be honest, soup without pasta is like a rainbow without colors—just not right.
We’ll use the pasta of your choice to add a delightful touch of carb-induced happiness.
To tie it all together, we’ll drizzle a bit of olive oil for that Mediterranean touch, and sprinkle some fresh parsley to brighten up the flavors and add a hint of herby goodness.
Let’s transform those turkey remnants into a mouthwatering creation that will have you savoring every spoonful.
🥰 Why You Will Love This Recipe?
- We all know the struggle of figuring out what to do with those post-Thanksgiving turkey leftovers. This recipe is your answer! It takes those forgotten remnants and transforms them into a magical and delectable meal that will leave you wondering why you haven’t tried it before.
- Picture yourself cozied up on a chilly evening, with a steaming bowl of this turkey soup in hand. The comforting flavors, tender turkey, and hearty pasta will warm your soul and bring a sense of contentment that only a homemade soup can provide.
- Cooking doesn’t have to be a daunting task. This recipe is designed to make your life easier. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll breeze through the preparation process, giving you more time to savor the joys of cooking and enjoy the company of your loved ones.
- While the recipe itself is a delight, it also welcomes your personal touch. Feel free to play with different herbs, spices, or even add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to give it a kick. This soup is a canvas for your creativity, allowing you to customize it and make it truly your own.
- ]We live in a world where food waste is a pressing issue. By making this turkey soup, you’re not only satisfying your taste buds but also practicing mindful cooking. You’re using those precious leftovers and transforming them into a new, delicious meal, reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable kitchen.
- There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade soup. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the warmth it brings to your body, and the satisfaction of savoring each spoonful—this recipe encompasses all of that. It’s a hug in a bowl, a taste of home, and a reminder that good food has the power to nourish not just your body, but also your spirit.
🥘 Ingredients and Substitutes
- Onions add a savory and aromatic base to the soup. If desired, you can substitute it with shallots or leeks for different flavor profiles.
- Garlic brings its distinct pungent and flavorful notes. In place of fresh garlic cloves, you can use garlic powder, granulated garlic, or roasted garlic.
- Carrots add a touch of sweetness and earthiness to the soup. Parsnips, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash can be used as substitutes.
- All-purpose flour serves as a thickening agent. You can opt for gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder as alternatives.
- Chicken Broth provides a savory and rich base for the soup. Vegetable broth, turkey broth, or beef broth can be used as substitutes.
- Cream adds a luscious and creamy texture to the soup. Coconut milk, coconut cream, almond milk, or cashew cream can be used as dairy-free alternatives.
- Turkey Breast is the star protein of the soup. Cooked chicken breast or leftover rotisserie chicken can be used instead.
- Pasta adds a hearty and comforting element to the soup. Gluten-free pasta, egg noodles, rice noodles, or orzo can be used as substitutes.
- Olive Oil adds a subtle fruitiness and richness. Avocado oil, melted butter, or ghee can be used as alternative cooking fats.
- Parsley contributes a fresh and herbaceous flavor. Fresh cilantro, basil, or dill can be used as substitutes.
👩🍳 Step-by-step Directions
Quick Note: Use a pot with a thick bottom and high sides, which will make it easier to sauté and then simmer.
Pour 1 tablespoon of oil into the pot, then add the diced vegetables and start cooking over medium heat.
Cook the vegetables for 2-3 minutes until the onion starts to become translucent. Then, add the flour.
Sauté the vegetables with the flour for an additional 2-3 minutes, until you start to smell a pleasant aroma similar to toasted nuts. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
Add the chicken broth and let it simmer over low heat until the vegetables become al dente. This will take approximately 3-4 minutes.
When the vegetables have become al dente, add the pasta and cook it for half the time indicated on the package.
Then, add the shredded meat and cream, and cover with a lid.
Let it simmer over low heat until the pasta becomes al dente. Be careful not to overcook the pasta as it will lose its texture and alter the taste of the soup.
When the pasta is al dente, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Pro Tip: The amount of salt needed may vary depending on the broth used, so it’s best to hold off on adding salt until this point and adjust accordingly.
After adjusting the salt and pepper, add the finely chopped parsley and the soup is ready to be served.
I highly recommend you serve it immediately.
If it sits for too long, the pasta will absorb the liquid from the soup and change in taste and texture.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Herb Garnish and Zesty Lemon Zing: Elevate the presentation and flavor profile of your soup by garnishing it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro. These vibrant green accents not only add visual appeal but also a burst of freshness to each spoonful. And don’t forget the zesty lemon! Squeeze a wedge of lemon over the soup just before serving to add a tangy brightness that will awaken your taste buds and bring a delightful citrusy twist to the dish.
- Colorful Garden Salad Bursting with Freshness: Balance the richness of the soup with a vibrant garden salad bursting with freshness. Toss together a medley of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced cucumbers, and radishes. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette made from lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey. The crisp and refreshing salad will provide a delightful contrast to the warm and comforting soup, making each bite a symphony of flavors and textures.
- Roasted Garlic Crostini Crunch: Transform humble baguette slices into irresistible roasted garlic crostini. Slice a baguette into thin rounds and brush each slice with olive oil. Place them under the broiler until golden and slightly toasted. Now, here comes the magic: Rub each crostini with a roasted garlic clove, allowing the sweet, caramelized garlic essence to infuse the bread. The contrast of the crispy crostini and the velvety, rich garlic creates a divine harmony that will elevate your soup experience to new heights.
🏆 Expert Tips. What to Pay Attention To?
- When you sauté the onions and garlic, do it with a generous sprinkle of love. Why? Because the aroma that fills your kitchen will make your heart flutter and set the tone for the entire cooking experience. So, give those onions a little extra attention and let them work their magic.
- All-purpose flour may seem like a humble ingredient, but oh boy, it plays a crucial role in creating that velvety texture we all crave in a soup. Take your time to cook it with the sautéed veggies, allowing it to develop a toasty, nutty flavor that will elevate the entire dish.
- As you go along, taste and season with confidence. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, and don’t be afraid to add a pinch of your favorite herbs or spices. Remember, cooking is an expression of your creativity, so let your taste buds guide you to culinary greatness.
- When it’s time to serve, don’t forget the final flourish. Drizzle a swirl of olive oil over each bowl, sprinkle some fresh parsley with a flourish, and watch as your soup transforms into a work of art. It’s the little details that make all the difference.
🤔 Answering Your Questions:
Can I Use Turkey Leftovers That Have Been Refrigerated for a Few Days?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for utilizing refrigerated turkey leftovers. Just make sure the turkey is properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and hasn’t surpassed its recommended shelf life.
Can I Freeze the Soup for Later Consumption?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for later enjoyment. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. But keep in mind that the soup will become thicker and the pasta will lose its aldente texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables. You can add ingredients like celery, peas, corn, or even spinach to add more color, nutrients, and flavor to the soup. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure all the vegetables are tender and delicious.
What Pasta Shapes Work Best for This Recipe?
You have the flexibility to use any pasta shape that you prefer. Classic options like small shells, rotini, or even egg noodles work well. Choose a shape that holds up nicely in soups and complements the other ingredients. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option if needed.
😻 Other Soups Recipes You May Enjoy
- Vegetarian Beet Soup (Ukrainian Borscht)
- Easy 4 Ingredient Pumpkin Soup
- 4 Ingredient Chicken And Corn Soup
- Easy 3-Ingredient Potato Soup
- Romanian Meatball Soup
📋 Recipe Card:
Turkey Soup Without Carcass
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Onion Medium
- 1 clove Garlic
- 2 Carrot Small
- 1 tablespoon All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- ½ cup Cream
- 1 cup Turkey Breast
- 1 cup Pasta
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- Parsley
- Salt
- Black Pepper
Instructions
- Dice the vegetables into small cubes and place them in a pot with a thick bottom. Add a tablespoon of oil and cook the vegetables over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.1 Onion, 1 clove Garlic, 2 Carrot, 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- Add the flour and cook, stirring frequently for another 2-3 minutes.1 tablespoon All-purpose flour
- Add the broth, mix all the ingredients well. Cover with a lid, and let it cook over medium heat until the vegetables become al dente. (this step should take about 4 minutes).2 cups Chicken Broth
- Add the pasta, mix it well with the rest of the ingredients, and cook it for half the time indicated on the package.1 cup Pasta
- Add the shredded meat. Immediately after that, add the cream. Mix well and let them cook over low heat under the lid until the pasta becomes al dente.2 cups Chicken Broth, ½ cup Cream, 1 cup Turkey Breast
- Adjust with salt and pepper if needed. In the end, add finely chopped parsley and serve while it's hot.Salt, Black Pepper, Parsley
Quick Note
I highly recommend reading the entire recipe to find more tips and notes about this recipe. Read Full Recipe ⇑
Notes
- Leftover Turkey: This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover turkey breast from holiday feasts or other occasions. Ensure the turkey is properly cooked and stored before using it in the soup.
- Texture and Thickness: The thickness of the soup can be adjusted by adding more or less chicken broth or cream. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more broth. For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or increase the amount of all-purpose flour.
- Herb Variation: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your taste preferences. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage can be lovely additions to enhance the flavor profile of the soup.
- Make It Your Own: This recipe serves as a delicious base, but don’t hesitate to customize it according to your liking. Add extra vegetables, spices, or even a splash of lemon juice for a tangy twist. Let your creativity shine!
- Freezing: This soup freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the soup with crusty bread, garlic crostini, or a fresh garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon to add a vibrant touch.
- Adjusting Seasonings: Remember to taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Salt and pepper can vary depending on personal preference, so add them gradually and season to taste.
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