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Turkey Soup Recipes Carcass
Don’t let your Thanksgiving or holiday turkey carcass go to waste! This Turkey Soup Recipe is the perfect way to transform leftovers into a comforting, flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a rich, homemade turkey broth that serves as the foundation for a hearty soup. Loaded with tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is a sustainable and delicious way to stretch your feast.
Equipment
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Strainer or fine mesh sieve
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
For the Broth
- 1 turkey carcass from a 10–15 lb turkey
- 12 cups water
- 2 large carrots roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks roughly chopped
- 1 large onion quartered
- 3 garlic cloves smashed
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- A handful of fresh parsley or thyme sprigs
For the Soup
- 4 cups turkey meat shredded (leftovers work great)
- 3 large carrots diced
- 3 celery stalks diced
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 cup uncooked noodles egg noodles or any pasta of choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Turkey Broth
- Place the turkey carcass in a large stockpot.
- Add water, chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, peppercorns, bay leaves, and herbs.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 1.5–2 hours.
- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
- Strain the broth through a fine sieve into a large bowl, discarding solids.
- Let the broth cool slightly, then skim off excess fat from the surface.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same stockpot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Assemble the Soup
- Return the strained broth to the pot with sautéed vegetables.
- Stir in the shredded turkey, dried thyme, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
- Add noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 6–8 minutes.
Adjust and Serve
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
Tips for the Best Turkey Soup
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook them until just tender to avoid sogginess.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the broth a day in advance for deeper flavors and to save time.
- Freeze Leftovers: The soup freezes well, making it a convenient meal for busy days.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250 | 12% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 7000IU | 140% |
| Iron | 2mg | 12% |
Health Benefits of Turkey Soup
1. Rich in Nutrients
The homemade broth is packed with collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support joint and gut health.2. Boosts Immunity
The combination of garlic, herbs, and vegetables provides antioxidants and immune-boosting vitamins.3. Hydration and Recovery
Turkey soup is hydrating and perfect for post-holiday recovery or soothing colds.4. Low Waste and Sustainable
Using the turkey carcass helps reduce food waste while extracting maximum flavor and nutrients.Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Turkey Soup
- Skip the noodles and add more root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes.
- Creamy Turkey Soup
- Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Turkey Soup
- Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Rice or Quinoa Substitute
- Replace noodles with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for a complete meal.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced dinner.