Name: Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 3/4 cup chopped onions; 1 large poblano pepper (seeded and chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 1/2 cups leftover mashed potatoes; 6 cups chicken broth (or turkey stock); 3 cups roughly chopped cooked turkey; 2 cups cooked orzo (or 2 1/2 cups leftover orzo stuffing); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly winter day. That’s why I love making Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup after the holidays. It’s a heartwarming way to use up those leftovers while creating something entirely new. I remember the first time I whipped this up; the aroma wafting through the kitchen felt like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. As the broth simmers and the flavors meld together, I can’t help but feel grateful for those cozy moments spent gathered around the table with family. Plus, it’s not just delicious—it’s practical! I mean, who wouldn’t want to turn leftover turkey into something extraordinary?

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Skillet, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Whisk

The Charm of This Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup

Why do I love the Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup? Here are just a few reasons:

It’s the Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s something about soup that instantly comforts the soul. The warmth, the flavors, it all feels like a warm embrace on a cold day. This soup is rich and full of flavor, making it the perfect dish to cozy up with.

Perfect for Cold Winter Days

As winter settles in, the need for hearty meals increases. This soup not only helps combat the cold but also uses up those holiday leftovers. You can feel good about reducing waste while enjoying a delicious meal.

Versatile and Customizable

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also adaptable. You can add in whatever leftover vegetables or grains you have on hand, making it a great way to clean out your fridge while still enjoying a meal that feels fresh and exciting.

Easy to Make

With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can whip up this flavor-packed soup. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Family-Friendly

This soup is a hit with everyone in the family. It has just the right amount of spice without being too overwhelming, making it suitable for kids and adults alike. Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love!

Nutritious and Hearty

With ingredients like turkey, vegetables, and broth, you’re not just satisfying your taste buds, but you’re also nourishing your body. It’s a great way to get in some veggies while enjoying a comforting bowl of soup.

Everything You Need for Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup

When it comes to crafting the perfect bowl of soup, the ingredients matter. In my Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup, each component plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. The combination of turkey, broth, and spices meld together to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for winter.

2 tablespoons butter: This is the base of your soup, providing richness and depth of flavor.
3/4 cup chopped onions: Onions bring sweetness and earthiness to the dish.
1 large poblano pepper, seeded and chopped: This adds a mild heat and smokiness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for flavor, adding aromatic richness.
1 1/2 cups leftover mashed potatoes: A great way to thicken the soup while adding creaminess.
6 cups chicken broth or turkey stock: The foundation of the soup; it’s where all the flavors come together.
3 cups roughly chopped cooked turkey: The star of the show, bringing protein and heartiness.
2 cups cooked orzo or 2 1/2 cups leftover orzo stuffing: This adds a wonderful texture and heartiness to the soup.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

How to Make Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup

Making the Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll find that the process is simple, and the result is a cozy, satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out. Let’s dive into the steps!

Start by placing a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the butter to the pot. Once the butter has melted and begins to bubble, it’s time to add the other ingredients.
Add the chopped onions, poblano peppers, and garlic to the pot. Sauté these for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. You want to see them softening and beginning to caramelize.
Next, introduce the leftover mashed potatoes and the broth into the pot. Whisk everything together gently, ensuring that the mashed potatoes dissolve into the broth and create a creamy base. Bring this mixture to a soft boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it bubble for about 15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the soup to thicken slightly.
After 15 minutes, add in the roughly chopped cooked turkey and orzo stuffing (if using). Stir everything together and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. During this time, the turkey will heat through, and the orzo will soak up the delicious flavors.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. It’s essential to taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
Once everything is heated and seasoned, remove the pot from the heat. Let the soup sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. This helps the flavors to settle.
Serve the Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup warm in bowls. Don’t forget to enjoy it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Things Worth Knowing

Texture Matters: Aim for a creamy texture in your Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup. If it’s too thick, add some more broth or water to adjust.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh onions and garlic will elevate the flavor. Always sauté them until they’re fragrant.
Leftover Adaptability: Feel free to incorporate any leftover vegetables you have. They would work beautifully in this soup.
Spice Levels: You can adjust the spice by adding more or less poblano pepper or even using a different pepper variety.

Make It Your Own

Your version of the Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup can reflect your personal taste and creativity. Here are some tips to consider to make this recipe truly yours:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Pairing: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to make this a hearty meal.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes while simmering.
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the turkey for roasted vegetables or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness before serving.

How to Serve Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup

Serving the Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup is as enjoyable as making it! Here’s how to make it a memorable meal:

Comforting Dinner: This soup is perfect for a winter dinner, providing warmth and comfort, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top each bowl with fresh cilantro or parsley. It not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor.
Pair with Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette pairs beautifully with the soup. It’s perfect for dipping!
Serving Temperature: Serve the soup hot for the best experience. It’s comforting and soothing, especially in cold weather.
Occasional Delight: This soup is perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving, but it can easily be served any weeknight.
Heat Options: If you have leftovers, reheat them gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Casual Lunch: Leftover soup makes for an easy lunch. Just reheat and enjoy with a side salad or sandwich.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you don’t have leftover turkey, feel free to use fresh turkey. Just cook it thoroughly before adding it to the soup. You can roast, boil, or sauté it first, then chop it into cubes to ensure it blends well with the other flavors.

This recipe is quite versatile! You can add any leftover vegetables you have on hand, like carrots, celery, or even green beans. Just chop them finely and toss them in after sautéing the onions and peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

If you want to adjust the spice level, consider using milder peppers or simply reducing the amount of poblano pepper you use. For a bit of heat, you can also add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while it simmers.

Yes! You can make the Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!

Conclusion

The Spicy Leftover Turkey Soup is truly a delightful way to use up holiday leftovers, transforming what could be waste into a comforting meal. I encourage you to give it a try, whether it’s during the holidays or any chilly night. It’s a recipe that surely warms the heart and fills the belly, making it perfect for the whole family. Enjoy every cozy spoonful!