Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe

When the chill of autumn sets in or a dreary rainy day takes over, few things are more comforting than a steaming bowl of homemade soup. And if you’re craving a dish that is hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, then creamy turkey noodle soup is the ultimate solution. This recipe brings together tender turkey, cozy noodles, and a rich, velvety broth in one satisfying dish. The combination of protein, carbs, and creaminess makes this soup not only comforting but filling, turning any meal into an event.

Imagine sitting down with a bowl of this soup, the smell of simmering herbs, and the warmth of the creamy broth wrapping around you like a soft, warm blanket. Whether you’re trying to use up leftover turkey or you’re just in the mood for something cozy, this turkey noodle soup checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

This recipe takes classic turkey noodle soup up a notch by adding a rich, creamy texture that elevates the whole experience. The turkey adds a savory depth, while the noodles lend the perfect amount of chewiness, all enveloped in a smooth, velvety broth that’s just to die for. Whether you have leftover turkey from a holiday dinner or you just want something quick and simple, this dish will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Ingredients Needed

To make this creamy turkey noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Turkey (cooked, shredded) – About 2 cups. You can use leftover turkey, but rotisserie chicken also works in a pinch.
Egg noodles – These are the classic choice for turkey noodle soup because they cook up perfectly soft but still hold their shape in the broth.
Carrots – 2 medium-sized, sliced thin. They add a bit of sweetness and crunch.
Celery – 2 stalks, finely chopped. This adds flavor and texture to the soup.
Yellow onion – 1 medium, chopped. Onion forms the aromatic base of your soup.
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced. Garlic infuses the soup with a deep, savory aroma.
Chicken broth – 4 cups. A hearty broth will give your soup its foundation, but you can mix with vegetable broth for a lighter base.
Heavy cream – 1 cup. This is the secret ingredient that makes the soup extra creamy and luxurious.
Butter – 2 tablespoons. Butter is used for sautéing the veggies and adds a richness to the base.
Flour – 2 tablespoons. This will help thicken the soup and create that creamy consistency.
Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon. A classic herb to bring out savory notes.
Dried rosemary – ½ teaspoon. It adds a subtle earthy flavor to balance the richness.
Bay leaves – 2 whole leaves. Bay leaves add a fragrant touch, but be sure to remove them before serving.
Salt & pepper – To taste. These are essential to bring out all the flavors.
Parsley (optional) – Fresh chopped parsley to garnish. This adds a burst of color and a fresh taste.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to create this creamy turkey noodle soup:

Sauté The Veggies

In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Make The Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed veggies and stir it in. This will help thicken your soup later. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to avoid a raw flour taste.
Add The Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring as you go to combine everything. Be sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to infuse the soup with extra flavor.
Add Seasonings

Toss in the bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let it come to a gentle boil.
Add The Noodles

Once the broth is boiling, add in the egg noodles and let them cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes. The noodles should be al dente (not too soft).
Stir In The Turkey And Cream

Add the shredded turkey and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You’ll notice the broth will become beautifully creamy.
Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serve And Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy the comfort of a homemade meal!

Ingredient Insights

Every ingredient in this creamy turkey noodle soup plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. Here’s a deeper dive into some of the key components:

Turkey: The star of the show, turkey brings a rich, savory flavor that’s both comforting and filling. It’s an excellent source of lean protein and works beautifully with the creamy broth, which helps to keep it moist and tender.
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are soft, delicate, and have just the right texture for soups. They absorb the creamy broth without losing their shape, making them a perfect companion for the soup.
Heavy Cream: This is what transforms a standard turkey noodle soup into a luxurious dish. The cream adds a richness that makes the soup feel indulgent but still balanced with the lighter turkey.
Herbs and Spices: Thyme and rosemary are classic herbs in soups. Thyme has a subtle earthy flavor, while rosemary brings a hint of woodsy depth. Together, they create the backbone of flavor in this soup.
Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup. Using a good-quality chicken broth (or homemade) can make a huge difference in flavor. If you’re using store-bought, look for low-sodium varieties so you can control the salt level.

Expert Tips

To ensure your creamy turkey noodle soup turns out perfect every time, consider these expert tips:

Don’t overcook the noodles: Noodles can turn mushy if they’re overcooked. Add them towards the end of the cooking process and keep an eye on them as they cook.
Add a splash of lemon juice: If the soup feels too rich, a small squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors and cut through the creaminess.
Make it ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day! If you have time, make it in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will develop, and the soup will be even more delicious.
Use leftover turkey: This is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey from a big family meal. If you’re using fresh turkey, roast or cook it before adding it to the soup.
Adjust the creaminess: You can adjust the richness of the soup by using half-and-half or milk in place of the heavy cream. For a lighter version, use more broth and less cream.

Recipe Variations

This creamy turkey noodle soup is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey and use vegetable broth along with more hearty vegetables like potatoes, squash, or cauliflower. Add some plant-based cream for the creamy texture.
Gluten-Free: Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice. Be sure to check your broth and cream for any gluten-containing ingredients.
Spicy Turkey Noodle Soup: Add a kick by incorporating a bit of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the veggies.
Low-Carb Version: Use spiralized zucchini or another low-carb noodle alternative in place of egg noodles for a keto-friendly twist.

Final Words

This creamy turkey noodle soup is the perfect meal for any season, but especially for those cozy nights when you need something comforting and filling. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers or just crave a warm bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, customizable, and, most importantly, delicious.

Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe