There is something truly comforting about a homemade soup that warms you from the inside out, and this Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe is one of my all-time favorites for good reason. It combines tender chunks of turkey, wholesome vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a savory broth that’s both hearty and light. Whether you have leftover turkey or just want a nourishing meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this recipe promises a deliciously simple dish that’s bursting with flavor and good vibes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe plays a vital role in crafting layers of taste, texture, and color that make this soup so inviting. From the earthy vegetables to the fragrant herbs and wholesome turkey, these essentials come together beautifully and are easy to find in any kitchen.
- ½ cup chopped onions: Offers a sweet, aromatic base that softens perfectly in the broth.
- ½ cup chopped carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of orange color.
- ½ cup chopped celery: Brings a subtle crunch and fresh herbal notes.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté veggies for a rich, golden flavor foundation.
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste: Deepens the soup’s color with a concentrated tomato flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses warmth and a tempting aroma that wakes up the palate.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Adds a sweet, slightly peppery herbal lift.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties the Mediterranean flavors together.
- 1 (14-oz) can Italian diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides juiciness and a fresh tomato bite.
- 2 (32-oz) cartons turkey broth: Creates the savory, comforting liquid that’s the heart of the soup.
- 8 oz chopped turkey meat, bite-size pieces: The star protein delivering tenderness and satisfying substance.
- ½ (10-oz) pkg frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed: Sneaks in nutrient-rich greens with mild flavor and lovely texture.
- ¾ tsp salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- ½ tsp pepper (or to taste): Adds just the right amount of gentle spice.
- 1½ cups medium egg noodles: Provides the classic noodle comfort, soaking up the savory broth beautifully.
How to Make Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatic Vegetables
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook these together until the vegetables begin to soften, releasing their natural sweetness and aroma. This step builds the flavorful base and ensures your soup has depth right from the start.
Step 2: Add Tomato Paste and Herbs
Next, stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and dried basil. Cook the mixture for about one minute to toast the tomato paste slightly and let the garlic’s aroma bloom. This brief step intensifies the flavors and adds a subtle richness that will shine through in the final dish.
Step 3: Combine Tomatoes, Broth, Turkey, and Spinach
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes along with the turkey broth. Then add the chopped turkey meat and the thawed, squeezed frozen spinach. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for 20 minutes. This simmering melds all the ingredients into a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and wholesome.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Finally, add the egg noodles to the pot and cook an additional 15 minutes or until the noodles are soft and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the noodles are cooked through, your Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe is ready to serve—steaming, fragrant, and full of heartiness!
How to Serve Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the soup’s presentation and flavor, consider topping each bowl with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A dash of freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten and brighten the flavors instantly, adding a fresh finish.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls, perfect for soaking up every last drop. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the soup’s heartiness and adds a refreshing contrast on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and garnish with a swirl of pesto or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serving in bread bowls can add an element of fun and indulgence, making it perfect for a cozy get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve with time, making leftovers a delicious second meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep the soup longer, freeze it without the noodles to avoid sogginess. Store the broth, turkey, and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and add fresh noodles during reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Add cooked or fresh noodles at the end of reheating so they stay tender and don’t overcook.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked turkey works perfectly in this Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe and adds even more depth of flavor, making it a great way to repurpose Thanksgiving or roasted turkey.
What type of noodles are best for turkey noodle soup?
Medium egg noodles are ideal because they have just the right bite and absorb the broth beautifully without turning mushy too quickly.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can adapt the recipe by substituting turkey broth with vegetable broth and omitting turkey meat. Adding beans or tofu can boost protein without losing the hearty feel.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy if I’m making this ahead?
The best approach is to cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating the soup. Noodles tend to soak up liquid and soften further over time, so this keeps their texture just right.
Is frozen spinach a good substitute for fresh spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works well here. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the soup to avoid watering down your broth.
Final Thoughts
If you love a warm bowl of something wholesome, flavorful, and nurturing, I can’t recommend this Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe enough. It’s straightforward, flexible, and filled with comforting flavors that feel like home in every sip. Give it a try and soon it’ll be your go-to for cozy nights and happy gatherings!
Print
Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This hearty Turkey Noodle Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for chilly days or when you need a wholesome dish. Featuring tender turkey pieces, fresh vegetables, and tender egg noodles simmered in a flavorful broth enriched with Italian herbs and diced tomatoes, this soup combines delicious taste with wholesome ingredients for a family-friendly dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- ½ cup chopped onions
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- ½ cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ (10-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed
Liquids & Broth
- 1 (14-oz) can Italian diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 (32-oz) cartons turkey broth
Protein
- 8 oz chopped turkey meat, bite-size pieces
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp pepper (or to taste)
Pasta
- 1½ cups medium egg noodles
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Aromatics and Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and dried basil. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring the tomato paste is well incorporated.
- Add Liquids and Meat: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and turkey broth. Add the chopped turkey meat and thawed spinach. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and turkey to heat through.
- Cook Noodles: Add the medium egg noodles to the simmering soup. Continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
Notes
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade turkey broth if available.
- You can substitute spinach with kale or another leafy green of your choice.
- Ensure the frozen spinach is properly thawed and squeezed to remove excess water to avoid a watery soup.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 1 month.
