When comfort is calling, this Turkey Noodle Soup answers with a warm, savory hug in a bowl. It’s everything you love about classic chicken noodle soup but made with juicy, tender turkey—perfect for using up holiday leftovers or just making something cozy from scratch. Light yet filling, soothing yet full of flavor, this soup comes together quickly and makes an ideal weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s all made in one pot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Comforting: This is one of those “throw it together and feel better instantly” kind of meals. On the table in under 40 minutes, it’s a go-to for busy evenings or whenever you’re feeling under the weather.
Great Use of Leftovers: Got leftover turkey? This is hands-down one of the tastiest and easiest ways to use it up—no one will even know it’s repurposed.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor. Everything simmers together beautifully, and the result is broth loaded with goodness.
Hearty and Healthy: Full of lean protein, veggies, and noodles—this is a balanced meal in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this cozy, satisfying soup. No complicated steps, just honest ingredients working together.

Cooked turkey: Shredded or chopped—perfect for leftovers. Both white and dark meat work well.
Egg noodles: These cook up quickly and soak in the delicious broth. Use wide or medium depending on your texture preference.
Carrots and celery: Classic soup vegetables that add sweetness and crunch. Slice them evenly for faster cooking.
Onion: A must-have for building a savory base. Dice it finely so it melts right into the broth.
Garlic: Adds depth and brings the whole thing together. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Chicken or turkey broth: Go for a low-sodium broth so you can control the salt. Homemade if you have it, store-bought if you don’t.
Bay leaf and dried thyme: These classic herbs give the soup that familiar, comforting aroma. Don’t skip them!
Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste, especially near the end.
Olive oil or butter: Used to sauté the veggies and build that first layer of flavor.
Fresh parsley: For a bright, fresh finish right before serving.

Variations

Want to put your own spin on this soup? Go for it!

Add greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrition.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Use different noodles: Swap in rotini, orzo, or even broken spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a richer soup.
Vegetarian twist: Skip the turkey and use veggie broth with chickpeas or white beans instead.

How to Make Turkey Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant—this is where the soup starts smelling amazing.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Add the broth to the pot and bring everything to a boil. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Step 4: Add the Noodles

Once boiling, add your egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7–9 minutes, until tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Turkey

Reduce heat to a simmer and add the shredded turkey. Let it warm through for about 3–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Remove the bay leaf, then stir in chopped fresh parsley. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overcook the noodles: They’ll keep cooking in the hot broth, so aim for just tender, not mushy.
Add the turkey last: Since it’s already cooked, this keeps it juicy and tender instead of dry.
Taste before salting: Broths vary in salt content—season at the end to avoid oversalting.
Make it ahead: The flavor actually deepens after a day in the fridge.

How to Serve

This soup is a meal all on its own, but you can easily dress it up:

With Bread

Serve it with warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a truly satisfying meal.

As a Starter

Ladle into small bowls and serve as the opening act to a cozy dinner.

Light Lunch

Pair it with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a lighter midday meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. The noodles may absorb more broth over time, so add a splash when reheating.

Freezing

If planning to freeze, cook the noodles separately and add them when serving. Store soup (without noodles) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. Add a little broth or water if it’s too thick.

FAQs

Can I make this with raw turkey?
Yes, but you’ll need to simmer the turkey in the broth until fully cooked before adding the noodles—about 20–25 minutes depending on the size of the pieces.

What kind of noodles work best in turkey soup?
Egg noodles are traditional, but any pasta like fusilli, ditalini, or even broken lasagna sheets will work. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with cooked chicken too—use whatever you have on hand.

How can I make the broth more flavorful?
Let the soup simmer a little longer, use high-quality or homemade broth, and don’t skip the herbs and garlic. A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan can also boost flavor before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Noodle Soup is everything you want in a comforting, homemade meal—simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re warming up after a long day or looking for a delicious way to use leftovers, this soup delivers. Make a big pot, cozy up, and enjoy the magic of a meal that tastes like home.

Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe