Hearty Turkey Soup with Pasta and Vegetables Recipe
Introduction
This comforting turkey soup is a perfect way to use up leftover turkey and create a warming meal. Filled with tender vegetables, flavorful broth, and tender pasta, it’s easy to make and satisfying on chilly days.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 ribs celery, sliced
- 2 to 3 cups cooked chopped turkey (or shredded)
- 8 cups turkey broth (or chicken broth, homemade or store bought)
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 ounces medium shells pasta (about 1 ½ cups, or other medium pasta)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute more to form a roux.
- Step 2: Add the sliced carrots, celery, chopped turkey, broth, poultry seasoning, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Step 3: Stir in the pasta and continue cooking for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Remove from heat, discard the bay leaf, and stir in the fresh parsley if using.
- Step 4: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty turkey soup.
Tips & Variations
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour and use gluten-free pasta.
- Leftover turkey can be replaced with cooked chicken if preferred.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh, bright flavor.
- If you like a thicker soup, add a little more flour at the start or simmer longer to reduce the broth.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Note that the pasta may absorb some broth over time, so you might want to add a little extra broth or water when reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen turkey for this soup?
Yes, just thaw the turkey completely before adding it to the soup. Using cooked turkey meat works best for texture and flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors develop even more after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Just store it in the refrigerator and add extra broth when reheating if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid.
PrintHearty Turkey Soup with Pasta and Vegetables Recipe
This comforting Turkey Soup combines tender cooked turkey with fresh vegetables and hearty pasta in a flavorful broth seasoned with poultry spices and fresh parsley, perfect for a warming meal any time of year.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 ribs celery, sliced
Main Ingredients
- 2 to 3 cups cooked chopped turkey (or shredded)
- 8 cups turkey broth (or chicken broth, homemade or store bought)
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 ounces medium shells pasta (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute more to form a light roux that will slightly thicken the soup.
- Add vegetables and turkey: Stir in sliced carrots, celery, chopped turkey, broth, poultry seasoning, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes to develop flavors and soften the vegetables.
- Cook the pasta: Add the medium shells pasta to the simmering soup and continue cooking for an additional 8 to 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Once cooked, remove the soup from heat, discard the bay leaf, and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Serve hot for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the medium shells pasta with any other medium pasta shape such as elbow macaroni or small penne.
- If using leftover cooked turkey, shredded or chopped dark or white meat both work well.
- Homemade turkey broth made from roasting a turkey carcass will add extra depth of flavor.
- For a thicker soup, you can increase the flour slightly or let the soup simmer longer.
Keywords: turkey soup, leftover turkey recipe, turkey broth soup, easy soup recipe, comfort food, poultry soup
