Creative Ways to Use Leftover Turkey: Delicious Turkey Soup Recipes

Simplest Turkey Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• Serves: 6
• 8 cups Turkey Stock
• Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
• 3 small carrots, thinly sliced diagonally
• 3 ounces dried wide egg noodles (2 cups)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked turkey
• Coarsely chopped fresh dill, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Bring the turkey stock to a boil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Add the carrots and noodles, and return to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer until the carrots are tender and the noodles are al dente, about 4 minutes.
4. Stir in the shredded turkey and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Sprinkle with fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges.

Source: Martha Stewart Living, November 2008

Turkey Soup with Cheddar Dumplings

Ingredients

• Serves: 6
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 carrots, cut in half lengthwise and thinly sliced into half-moons
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 3/4 cups homemade or low-sodium canned chicken stock
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup milk
• 3/4 pound cooked turkey, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
• Ground pepper

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the carrots and onion, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring occasionally.
2. Add the chicken stock and 2 cups of water; bring to a simmer. Cover and cook until the vegetables are just tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the cheddar cheese and thawed corn.
4. Add the egg and milk to the dry ingredients, stirring vigorously to create a slightly sticky dough. Using lightly floured hands, form the dough into 1-inch balls and set aside.
5. Add the turkey to the soup and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil and add the dumplings. Cover and cook until the dumplings are cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Serve warm.

Source: Martha Stewart Kids

Interesting Turkey Facts

• Turkey Consumption: According to the National Turkey Federation, Americans consumed approximately 5.3 billion pounds of turkey in 2020. Source
• Leftover Usage: A survey by the Food Network found that 79% of Americans use their Thanksgiving leftovers to make sandwiches, while 62% make soups or stews. Source
• Nutritional Value: Turkey is a rich source of protein, with a 3-ounce serving providing about 25 grams of protein. It is also low in fat, making it a healthy choice for post-holiday meals. Source

Conclusion

Transforming your leftover turkey into a delicious soup is a fantastic way to make the most of your holiday feast. Whether you opt for a simple turkey soup or a more elaborate version with cheddar dumplings, these recipes are sure to warm you up during the winter months. Enjoy your leftovers and happy holidays!

For more creative recipes and cooking tips, visit Martha Stewart and Food Network.