Turkey Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially when the weather turns chilly or when you need a nourishing bowl of warmth and flavor. This hearty soup combines tender shredded turkey, fresh vegetables, and homemade-style egg noodles in a creamy, herb-infused broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover turkey or craving a deliciously satisfying meal, this recipe is a must-try for any soup lover.

Top Reasons to Make Turkey Noodle Soup

Deliciously comforting: The creamy broth paired with tender turkey and soft noodles creates a soothing and satisfying experience.
Perfect for leftovers: It’s an excellent way to reinvent cooked turkey, making it taste fresh and exciting again.
Loaded with veggies: Carrots, celery, and peas add nutrition, flavor, and color to every spoonful.
Family-friendly: This soup appeals to all ages and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes.
Simple to prepare: With a handful of pantry staples and straightforward steps, it’s a fantastic weeknight meal.

What Goes In

4 tbsp butter – for sautéing the veggies and adding richness
1/2 onion, diced – adds savory depth to the soup base
3 carrots, peeled and diced – for a subtle sweetness and texture
2 celery stalks, diced – brings a fresh, aromatic crunch
1 tsp garlic, minced – enhances flavor with a gentle kick
1 1/2 tsp dried thyme – a classic herb that pairs beautifully with turkey
1 tsp dried parsley – adds a mild, fresh note
1/2 tsp dried basil – rounds out the herbal profile
1/3 cup flour – used to thicken the soup and create a creamy texture
8 cups turkey broth (or chicken broth) – the flavorful liquid base
4 cups turkey, shredded – the star protein of the soup
12 oz canned evaporated milk – adds creaminess without heaviness
1 1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste) – essential for seasoning
1/2 tsp pepper (or more to taste) – adds a subtle heat
12 oz dried homemade style egg noodles – tender noodles that soak up the broth perfectly
1 cup frozen peas (added last) – a pop of sweetness and color

Setup & Equipment

Large stockpot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup evenly and with plenty of space.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: To sauté vegetables and stir the soup without scratching your pot.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping veggies and shredding turkey.
Ladle: To serve your delicious soup with ease.

Step-by-Step: Turkey Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in your large stockpot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Flour

Sprinkle in the dried thyme, parsley, and basil, stirring to combine. Next, gradually sprinkle the 1/3 cup of flour over the veggies, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, which will help thicken the soup later and give it a lovely velvety texture.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Slowly whisk in the 8 cups of turkey broth, making sure to break up any lumps from the flour. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add Turkey and Seasonings

Stir in the shredded turkey, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the soup is heated through and the seasoning is balanced.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Add the dried egg noodles to the pot, cooking according to package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until tender but still firm to the bite. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Step 6: Finish with Peas and Serve

Finally, stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes until warmed through. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the Turkey Noodle Soup into bowls and enjoy the perfect harmony of creamy broth, hearty turkey, and tender noodles.

Year-Round Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a warming heat.
Fresh Herbs: Swap dried herbs for fresh thyme, parsley, and basil for a brighter flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Include diced potatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and noodles to accommodate dietary needs.
Non-Creamy Version: Skip the evaporated milk and add more broth for a lighter, broth-based soup.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Not sautéing the flour: Failing to cook the flour with butter and veggies can leave a raw flour taste and a lumpy texture.
Overcooking noodles: Adding noodles too early or boiling too long can make them mushy and lose their texture.
Forgetting to season gradually: Season your soup in stages and taste often to avoid under or over-salting.
Adding peas too soon: Frozen peas can become mushy if cooked for too long; add them last for the best texture.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Turkey Noodle Soup freezes beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. For best results, cook the noodles fresh when serving or add them after reheating to maintain their texture.

Reader Questions

Can I use chicken instead of turkey broth?

Absolutely! Chicken broth is a great substitute if turkey broth is unavailable. It will still provide a rich, savory base that complements the herbs and turkey meat beautifully.

Is evaporated milk necessary for the creaminess?

Evaporated milk adds a lovely creamy texture without heaviness, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer. Just adjust the quantity to taste and consistency.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the turkey and use vegetable broth. You can increase the amount of vegetables and add plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu to keep it hearty.

How do I keep the noodles from getting soggy?

Cook the noodles separately and add them to each bowl when serving. If cooking noodles directly in the soup, add them just before serving and avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on timing.

Keep Cooking

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup – A traditional favorite with a twist.
Creamy Turkey Alfredo Pasta – Use leftover turkey in a rich pasta dish.
Easy Vegetable Soup – A vibrant, healthy option for veggie lovers.
Homemade Turkey Broth – Make your own broth for maximum flavor.

Next Steps

Now that you have this luscious Turkey Noodle Soup recipe in your culinary arsenal, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Experiment with the herbs and vegetables to make it your own, and don’t forget to share this cozy creation with friends and family. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual lunch, this soup will quickly become a go-to favorite. Enjoy the comfort, warmth, and deliciousness that only a homemade Turkey Noodle Soup can bring.

Turkey Noodle Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, heartiness, and simplicity. From the rich broth to the tender turkey and perfectly cooked noodles, every spoonful is satisfying and nourishing. So grab your ladle and dive into a bowl of this timeless classic that’s just waiting to comfort and delight you.

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