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Let me share our cherished family recipe that makes the day after Thanksgiving even better than the big day itself! This soup started with my mom's waste-not-want-not philosophy about that turkey carcass and has become our most anticipated post-holiday tradition. That rich homemade broth with tender turkey and vegetables simmering away brings everyone back to the kitchen just when we thought we couldn't eat another bite!
Why This Soup Is Pure Magic
This isn't just another turkey soup! Making your own stock from scratch creates this incredible depth of flavor you just can't get any other way. Last year when my sister tried taking the carcass home instead my kids actually protested they know what's coming when that pot starts simmering. Even my husband who usually says he's "all turkeyed out" after Thanksgiving asks for seconds of this soup!
What You'll Need
- For That Amazing Stock:
- Your turkey carcass every bit of it
- Fresh carrots celery and onion
- Whole garlic cloves
- A bay leaf Mom's secret touch
- Plenty of water
- Some salt and whole peppercorns
- For The Soup:
- More fresh vegetables
- Leftover turkey meat
- Mom's favorite egg noodles
- Those cozy seasonings
- Fresh parsley for brightness
Let's Start Cooking
- Making Our Liquid Gold
- First we get that stock going everything into the biggest pot you own! When this starts simmering it's like Thanksgiving all over again. I love how the whole house fills with these amazing comfort food aromas.
- Building The Soup
- While our stock is cooking I prep all those fresh vegetables. My kids love helping chop them they say it's like building the soup's rainbow! When everything comes together with those tender egg noodles pure comfort in a bowl.
- The Final Touch
- Adding that leftover turkey and watching it warm through in the broth knowing we're making something completely new and wonderful from yesterday's feast that's kitchen magic!
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Making It Perfect
Want my mom's secrets for the best turkey soup? Let that stock simmer as long as you can patience makes it richer. Don't add the noodles until you're ready to eat they'll stay perfectly tender. And here's her favorite tip save some of the nice turkey meat from the beginning don't just rely on what's left on the bones!
Serving It Up
Nothing beats a big bowl of this soup with some crusty bread for dunking! I love watching everyone gather around the table again the day after Thanksgiving somehow just as excited for this soup as they were for the big meal. Sometimes I'll make extra biscuits to go alongside pure comfort food heaven!
Saving Some For Later
This soup freezes beautifully! Just leave out the noodles and add fresh ones when you reheat. I always make an extra big batch and freeze portions it's like having a bit of Thanksgiving tucked away for a rainy day. My kids get so excited when they see me pulling out one of those frozen containers!
Mix It Up
Don't be afraid to make this recipe your own! Sometimes I'll add different vegetables whatever's in the fridge. My daughter loves when I add extra noodles. Once I added some leftover stuffing dumplings absolute game changer! Every year we try something a little different but always keep Mom's basic recipe as our foundation.
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Why This Recipe Matters
This soup has become more than just a way to use leftovers it's our family's way of extending the warmth of Thanksgiving just a little longer. There's something so satisfying about transforming what some might throw away into something completely new and wonderful. The best part isn't just how delicious it is it's how it brings everyone back to the kitchen one more time to share another meal together. Whether you're making it the day after Thanksgiving or pulling a container from the freezer in January this soup never fails to bring back those warm holiday feelings!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I freeze this turkey soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. If using noodles, consider freezing the soup without them and adding fresh noodles when reheating.
- → How long does the soup keep in the refrigerator?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- → Can I make this soup without making homemade stock?
While homemade stock gives the best flavor, you can use store-bought turkey or chicken stock. The soup will still be delicious with good quality store-bought broth.
- → What can I substitute for poultry seasoning?
You can make your own blend using sage, thyme, marjoram, and rosemary. These herbs capture the classic poultry seasoning flavor profile.
- → Do I have to use noodles or rice?
No, the soup is delicious without them. You can skip the starches entirely for a lighter soup or add extra vegetables instead.
Conclusion
This comforting turkey soup starts with homemade stock from leftover turkey, then transforms into a hearty soup filled with vegetables, tender meat, and optional noodles or rice. It's the perfect way to extend your holiday turkey into another satisfying meal.