Turkey Soup for the Slow Cooker
This is how I take care of the turkey carcass. But you can make this soup by following the directions and using 12 cups of chicken broth with 1/2 teaspoon of poultry seasoning. You can freeze the carcass and make the broth when convenient for you.
This is how I take care of the turkey carcass. But you can make this soup by following the directions and using 12 cups of chicken broth with 1/2 teaspoon of poultry seasoning. You can freeze the carcass and make the broth when convenient for you.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 turkey carcass
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery
- 2 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon granules
- 12 cups water
- 2 onions
- noodles uncooked your choice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 1 leaf
- 2 slice them)
- 2 cups turkey shredded (include reserved turkey from above)
- Carbohydrate 3.84929076653679 g
- Cholesterol 24.323 mg
- Fat 1.19863382478517 g
- Fiber 0.826275626971811 g
- Protein 8.66790907852175 g
- Saturated Fat 0.391257440170592 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (318g)
- Sodium 53.2950026789385 mg
- Sugar 3.02301513956497 g
- Trans Fat 0.194148866452942 g
- Calories 62 calories
Step-by-step
- Turkey Broth: Put the turkey carcass in your slow cooker on Low with an onion, celery stalk, a carrot, salt and pepper, bay leaf, 1/2 poultry seasoning, 2 teaspoons chicken powder, and water. Cook on Low overnight.
- Next morning, strain the broth and pour it back in the slow cooker.
- Remove turkey meat from bones, set meat aside.
- Soup: In the slow cooker with the broth, add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook at High for 4 hours; add turkey, noodles, and parsley.
- Cook another 1/2 hour.
- Enjoy!
My Simple, Comforting Slow Cooker Turkey Soup
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding quick and easy recipes that still taste amazing is a constant quest. That's why I'm so excited to share this recipe for slow cooker turkey soup—it’s a lifesaver! Not only is it incredibly flavorful and satisfying, but it’s also remarkably simple to make, even on my busiest days. The best part? It uses up leftover turkey, reducing food waste and stretching your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious weeknight meal.
This recipe is all about maximizing flavor with minimal effort. The secret lies in making the broth ahead of time in the slow cooker. The gentle heat of the slow cooker extracts all the goodness from the turkey carcass, resulting in a rich and deeply flavorful base for the soup. You can even make the broth a day ahead or freeze it for a future meal. I usually do this and have a quick meal ready within 4 hours.
I love the versatility of this soup. Feel free to adjust the vegetables to your liking. Add extra carrots, celery, or even some diced potatoes for a heartier soup. I often add a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients. And the type of noodles you use can really change it up, I've used everything from egg noodles to tiny pasta shapes.
This turkey soup isn't just about convenience; it's about comfort. The warm, savory broth is incredibly soothing, especially on a chilly evening. The tender turkey meat, combined with the soft vegetables and flavorful broth, makes for a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. It's the perfect way to enjoy the lingering flavors of Thanksgiving long after the holiday has passed. It's also a great way to use up those turkey leftovers and avoid wasting any part of that beautiful bird.
Beyond the practical benefits, this recipe holds sentimental value. It reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen, filled with the aroma of simmering soups and the warmth of family gatherings. Her slow cooker turkey soup was a staple at our family reunions and it is what inspired me to make this recipe. It's a tradition I’ve happily carried on, adapting it to my own busy lifestyle.
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique twist. A splash of Worcestershire sauce, a dash of hot sauce, or even some chopped fresh herbs can elevate this simple soup to new heights. Remember, cooking should be fun and creative—don't be afraid to personalize this recipe and make it your own. I've been tweaking it for years!
Making this soup is an act of self-care. It's a way to nourish my body and soul with a delicious and comforting meal, without spending hours in the kitchen. And that’s something I truly cherish. So, the next time you find yourself with a leftover turkey carcass, don't throw it away! Give this slow cooker turkey soup recipe a try. I guarantee it will become a new family favorite.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a richer broth: Roast the turkey carcass before using it to make the broth.
- Add some greens: Spinach, kale, or chard add nutrients and a vibrant color to the soup.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick to the soup.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
- Freeze the broth: Make a large batch of broth and freeze it for future use. It keeps for up to three months.
This simple recipe has become a staple in my home, a warm embrace on a cold day, and a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of love. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
