Name: Comforting Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely diced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 2 stalks of celery, diced; 1 clove garlic, pressed; 2 cups cooked leftover turkey; 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock; 2 bay leaves; 1/2 cup orzo pasta; 1 1/2 cups frozen green peas

Leftover turkey soup is the ultimate comfort food after a big holiday meal, offering a delicious way to utilize every bit of that roasted bird. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful broth brimming with tender turkey, vibrant vegetables, and delicate orzo pasta. I always look forward to making this turkey soup, as it’s a quick and satisfying meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent. It’s perfect for warming up on a crisp Fall evening and making those cherished holiday flavors last a little longer.

⏱ Time: 50 min

👥 Servings: 6-8

📊 Level: Easy

🥗 10 ingredients

Comforting Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe!

Turkey soup: make this hearty and comforting recipe using your holiday leftovers. Packed with tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and orzo pasta.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 45

Total Time 50

Servings: 8

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely diced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 stalks of celery, diced
1 clove garlic, pressed
2 cups cooked leftover turkey
6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
2 bay leaves
1/2 cup orzo pasta
1 1/2 cups frozen green peas

Method

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a soup pot and add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 4-6 minutes until softened.
Add the leftover turkey, bay leaves, and 6 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock. Simmer the soup for 30 minutes.
Stir in the 1/2 cup orzo pasta and 1 1/2 cups frozen green peas. Cook for 10 more minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

– For extra flavor, use homemade turkey stock if you have it. It deepens the richness of your turkey soup.
– If your turkey pieces are large, shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding to the soup for easier eating.
– Listen for the gentle simmer, not a vigorous boil, to ensure the turkey remains tender and the vegetables cook evenly.
– Store leftover turkey soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

For extra flavor, use homemade turkey stock if you have it. It deepens the richness of your turkey soup.
If your turkey pieces are large, shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding to the soup for easier eating.
Listen for the gentle simmer, not a vigorous boil, to ensure the turkey remains tender and the vegetables cook evenly.
Store leftover turkey soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

This easy turkey soup is a fantastic way to enjoy your leftovers and savor the flavors of the season. Give it a try and share your cozy moments!

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