Name: Homemade Turkey Noodle Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup carrots (peeled and sliced thin); 1 cup celery (sliced thin); 1 cup sweet Vidalia or yellow onion (peeled and diced small); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 10-12 cups chicken broth; 2 bay leaves; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon pepper; 10 ounces wide egg noodles; 2 cups shredded cooked turkey; 4 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves (finely chopped); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt

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The chilly air carries the comforting scent of simmering broth, mingling perfectly with the aroma of sautéed vegetables and tender turkey. As you walk into the kitchen, you can almost feel the warmth embrace you, inviting you to a bowl of homemade turkey noodle soup. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of hearty egg noodles swimming in a savory broth, surrounded by vibrant vegetables and tender chunks of turkey. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy blanket of warmth, especially as the leaves turn and the holidays bring family together.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Homemade Turkey Noodle Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Homemade Turkey Noodle Soup

This Homemade Turkey Noodle Soup isn’t just a way to use leftover turkey; it’s a delicious reminder of family gatherings and laughter shared around the dinner table. I fondly remember my grandmother stirring a pot of soup on cold winter evenings, the anticipation building as we gathered, waiting for the moment we could finally dig in. Now, you can create that same inviting experience in your home, transforming any leftovers into something special. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to bring a taste of nostalgia to your table with this delightful soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This soup comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: With the depth of flavor from garlic and fresh herbs, every sip bursts with taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful vegetables and golden egg noodles create a visually pleasing bowl of comfort.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a hearty lunch or cozy dinner, this soup is versatile enough to please everyone!
Diet-Friendly Options: Feel free to swap in gluten-free noodles or use broth to suit different dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons olive oil: This oil helps sauté the vegetables, giving them a rich flavor and texture.
1 cup carrots (peeled and sliced thin): Fresh carrots add sweetness and vibrant color; use baby carrots if preferred.
1 cup celery (sliced thin): Celery brings crunch and aromatic flavor; you can replace it with fennel for a twist.
1 cup sweet Vidalia or yellow onion (peeled and diced small): Onions build a savory foundation; shallots work well for a milder taste.
4 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic infuses the soup with aromatic warmth; fresh is best, but jarred can be used in a pinch.
10-12 cups chicken broth: This creates the soup base; feel free to use low-sodium broth or homemade for more control over salt levels.
2 bay leaves: Bay leaves add depth; remember to remove them before serving as they are not edible!
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves: Thyme enhances the broth’s flavor; fresh thyme can also be a delightful option.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano contributes a slightly sweet, aromatic note; Italian seasoning blends work too.
1 teaspoon pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a little kick; adjust to your flavor preference.
10 ounces wide egg noodles: Egg noodles work wonderfully, but feel free to try your favorite pasta type, like whole wheat or gluten-free.
2 cups shredded cooked turkey: Leftover turkey makes this rich and satisfying; rotisserie chicken is a great substitute.
4 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves (finely chopped): Parsley adds freshness and bright color; try dill for a different flavor profile.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of lemon brightens the soup; adjust more or less to your taste.
Salt: Essential for flavor; always taste and adjust as different broths and turkeys will vary in saltiness.

How to Make Homemade Turkey Noodle Soup

Heat the Oil: Begin by placing a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and allow it to warm, creating the perfect foundation for your sautéed veggies.

Sauté the Veggies: Add the sliced carrots, celery, and diced onion to the pot. Sauté for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies soften and release their natural sweetness, making your kitchen smell divine.

Add the Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and stir for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown too much; we want it aromatic, not burnt!

Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves, dried thyme, dried oregano, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting it bubble for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are fork-tender, enhancing all those flavors.

Cook the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and let the soup boil for about 10 minutes or until the noodles are soft and cooked through. If you like your soup brothier, now’s the time to add extra broth or some water before adjusting the salt.

Incorporate the Turkey and Parsley: Gently stir in the shredded turkey, chopped parsley, and the optional lemon juice, letting it boil for another 1 to 2 minutes. This step warms the turkey through and brightens up your soup beautifully.

Season to Perfection: Taste your lovely soup and add salt to your preference. The right amount can really elevate the flavors, so adjust carefully based on the broth’s salt level and your personal taste.

Final Touches: Remove the bay leaves, engage your senses as you smell this delicious concoction, and serve hot. This soup is best enjoyed right away, but it keeps wonderfully for later!

Storing & Reheating

You can store leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 hours, or place them in airtight containers to refrigerate for 5 to 7 days. For long-term storage, freeze the soup in labeled containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply reheat it over medium heat on the stove until warmed through. Just note that the noodles may absorb some broth while stored, so you might want to add a splash of water or additional broth to refresh it before serving!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t overcrowd the pot when sautéing; give vegetables space to soften nicely.
For added texture, toss in some fresh spinach or kale just before serving.
If you accidentally over salt, adding a little extra broth or water can balance things out.
For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
This soup freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. Just leave out the noodles and add them fresh when reheating!

The magic of this Homemade Turkey Noodle Soup lies not only in its incredible flavors but also in how it warms the soul. You can savor each spoonful, knowing you’re nourishing both your body and heart. Feel free to play around with the ingredients, maybe add a little more garlic or experiment with different herbs, making the recipe your own. Whether it’s a chilly day or a family gathering, this soup is here to bring comfort and smiles.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked?

Absolutely! If you prefer to use raw turkey, just dice it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the pot right after the vegetables are sautéed. Allow it to cook until no longer pink before proceeding with the broth.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can easily adapt this soup by using gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Make sure to double-check that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

What other vegetables can I add to the soup?

Feel free to throw in other vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them when you add the broth so they have time to cook.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead! Just prepare it without the noodles, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat it up and cook the noodles fresh in the soup for the best texture.