Creamy Turkey Soup
Creamy Turkey Soup is a comforting dish that combines leftover turkey with tender potatoes, carrots, and celery in a rich, flavorful broth. Enhanced with a creamy, thickened base, it’s perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, especially using Thanksgiving leftovers or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring turkey broth to a boil in a large pot.
- Add potatoes, carrots, and celery; cook for about 20 minutes or until potatoes are almost tender.
- Add leftover turkey, green onions, salt, pepper, thyme, and sage; stir well and return to a boil.
- Cook over medium heat for another 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mix evaporated milk and flour in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer.
- Blend the milk mixture into the soup.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier soup, consider using half-and-half instead of evaporated milk. You can also substitute the turkey with shredded chicken if needed. If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour gradually while stirring to avoid lumps. Fresh herbs like parsley can enhance the flavor; just be sure to add them at the end for maximum freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional green onions for a fresh crunch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting dinner, enjoy it alongside Peanut Butter Quickies for a sweet finish. You can also offer grated cheese or croutons as optional toppings for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover creamy turkey soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the dairy to separate. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Turkey Soup contains roughly 1479 calories, with 97g protein, 167g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (195% of the Daily Value), iron (150% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (143% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1863mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded turkey in this recipe. If using raw turkey, make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the soup, which may require adjusting your cooking time.
What can I substitute for turkey broth?
If you don't have turkey broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be great alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, so adjust seasoning to taste.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this creamy turkey soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a bit of cold water before adding to the soup to prevent lumps.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).