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Cozy Turkey Carcass Soup Recipe Perfect for Leftovers

turkey carcass soup - featured image

A hearty, flavorful soup made from turkey leftovers, packed with veggies and a rich homemade broth. Perfect for chilly days and making the most of your holiday turkey.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Turkey carcass (bones and leftover meat)
  • 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
  • 23 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 23 celery stalks, chopped
  • 12 bay leaves
  • 23 garlic cloves, smashed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 cups water or broth
  • Optional: cooked rice, noodles, or potatoes
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or dill) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Break the turkey carcass into smaller pieces if needed to fit into your pot. Add it to the stockpot along with the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, and a generous pinch of salt.
  2. Pour enough water to fully cover the carcass and vegetables, usually around 8 cups.
  3. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 2-3 hours. Skim off any foam that accumulates on the surface.
  4. Once the broth is rich and fragrant, carefully strain it through a colander or fine mesh sieve into another pot or large bowl. Discard the bones and cooked vegetables.
  5. Return the broth to the pot and add fresh chopped carrots, celery, or any other veggies you like. Simmer for another 20-30 minutes until tender.
  6. Shred any leftover turkey meat and stir it into the soup. Heat through for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Add salt and pepper as needed. If you like extra flavor, toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
  8. Ladle into bowls, garnish with herbs, and enjoy warm!

Notes

[‘Simmer gently to avoid cloudy broth.’, ‘Skim foam for a cleaner-tasting broth.’, ‘Wait until the end to adjust seasoning.’, ‘Add fresh herbs just before serving for brightness.’, ‘Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkey soup, leftovers, Thanksgiving recipe, hearty soup, homemade broth, comfort food