If you’re craving something cozy and comforting after a long day, this Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a heartwarming bowl brimming with tender shredded turkey, vibrant vegetables, and luscious noodles all enveloped in a rich, creamy broth. Whether you’re using leftover turkey or cooking fresh, this soup brings together flavors and textures that feel like a warm hug. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, and every spoonful sings with savory goodness that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to making this soup shine. Each one plays a vital role: the turkey lends savory depth, veggies add fresh texture and color, and the creamy broth ties everything together into a luscious finish. You’ll be amazed how these basic pantry staples transform into something so indulgently satisfying.
- 3-4 cups cooked shredded turkey: The star protein that adds heartiness and rich flavor to the soup.
- 4 carrots (peeled and chopped): For sweetness and a pop of color that brightens the bowl.
- 3 celery stalks (peeled and chopped): Adds a subtle earthy crunch and aromatic depth.
- 1 small onion (diced): Gives a savory base flavor that melds perfectly with the broth.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that keeps every bite moist.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: A blend that brings out the best in the turkey and vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and a touch of savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- 24 ounces frozen noodles: Convenient and tender, these soak up the creamy broth beautifully.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: This creamy finish makes the soup indulgently smooth and rich.
How to Make Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by placing the shredded turkey, chopped carrots, celery, diced onion, chicken broth, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and salt into your slow cooker. This combination is the foundation that will slowly develop into a rich, comforting soup. The turkey brings natural savoriness, while the veggies and seasoning add layers of flavor and aroma.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker to low for about 6 hours or high for 4 hours. This slow simmering allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, softening the vegetables and infusing the broth with depth and warmth. It’s this patient cooking that makes the soup taste like it’s been lovingly prepared for hours.
Step 3: Add Noodles and Cream
Once the slow cooking is done, gently stir in the frozen noodles and heavy whipping cream. Cover and continue cooking for another hour or until the noodles are tender. The cream swirls through the soup, turning the broth luxuriously smooth without overpowering the delicate vegetable and turkey flavors.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
After the noodles are perfectly tender, give the soup a final stir and it’s ready to delight your taste buds. Ladle this creamy, comforting soup into bowls and prepare to savor every luscious spoonful. It’s the ultimate cozy meal that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day.
How to Serve Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your soup with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a little cracked black pepper for a bright, fresh contrast. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, cheesy note that complements the creaminess beautifully. A swirl of extra cream can make the presentation even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls, perfect for dipping. A crisp green salad or steamed green beans provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup. For an extra comfort factor, serve alongside a baked sweet potato or roasted vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. Not only does this make a stunning presentation, but the bread soaks up the creamy broth for extra flavor in every bite. You can also layer the soup with toasted croutons in clear glass mugs for a layered, rustic look that’s perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, allowing the flavors to deepen even more overnight. Just give the soup a gentle stir before reheating to bring it back to life.
Freezing
This Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat the soup slowly on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid high heat to keep the cream from curdling and preserve that silky texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use fresh noodles instead of frozen for the Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh noodles work wonderfully and will cook even faster in the final hour. Just be mindful to add them toward the end as the cooking time decreases to avoid overcooking and getting mushy noodles.
Is it possible to make this soup without cream?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy whipping cream with milk or a mixture of milk and a bit of flour for thickening. The soup will be lighter but still flavorful and satisfying. Another option is using a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños during the slow cooking stage. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce right before serving to customize the spice level to your taste.
Can I prepare this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Definitely! Start by sautéing the vegetables until tender, then add the turkey, broth, and seasonings. Let it simmer gently for about an hour, then add the noodles and cream, cooking until the noodles are soft. Stir frequently and adjust time as needed to avoid overcooking.
What’s the best type of turkey to use in this recipe?
Leftover cooked turkey from a roast works perfectly, especially dark meat for juiciness. If you’re cooking turkey specifically for the soup, shredded breast meat is lean and tender. Either way, avoid overly dry turkey as the creamy broth balances and enhances moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe is one of those soul-soothing dishes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and so satisfying that it feels like a homemade treasure for your family and friends. Give it a try on a crisp day—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
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Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Turkey Noodle Soup is a hearty, slow-cooked meal perfect for using leftover turkey. Packed with tender shredded turkey, fresh vegetables, savory seasonings, and creamy broth with tender noodles, it’s an easy, warming dish ideal for chilly days or anytime you crave a homestyle soup.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 3–4 cups cooked shredded turkey
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 celery stalks, peeled and chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Noodles & Cream
- 24 ounces frozen noodles
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: To your slow cooker, add the shredded turkey, chopped carrots, celery, diced onion, chicken broth, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
- Add Noodles & Cream: After the initial cook time, stir in the frozen noodles and heavy whipping cream. Cover again and cook for an additional hour, or until the noodles are tender and the soup is heated through.
- Serve: Once the noodles have softened, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, enjoying the creamy, hearty flavors.
Notes
- Using cooked shredded turkey makes this soup a great way to use leftovers.
- If frozen noodles are not available, fresh or dried egg noodles can be substituted but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the soup will be less rich.
