Making use of leftover turkey is a breeze with this comforting turkey dumpling soup! Transform holiday leftovers into a hearty, flavorful meal your family will love. Perfect for chilly days!
Turkey dumpling soup is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas. Instead of the same old turkey sandwiches, turn those leftovers into a warm, satisfying soup. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers a delicious, homemade meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
**Why This Recipe Works**
* **Uses Leftovers:** It’s a creative and delicious way to repurpose leftover turkey.
* **Comfort Food:** Nothing beats a bowl of warm, homemade soup, especially with soft, fluffy dumplings.
* **Easy to Customize:** Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to your liking.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Make a big batch and freeze some for future meals.
**Ingredients You’ll Need**
* **Leftover Turkey:** Shredded or cubed.
* **Vegetables:** Onion, carrots, and celery form the base of the soup.
* **Broth:** Turkey or chicken broth adds depth of flavor.
* **Herbs & Seasonings:** Thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper enhance the taste.
* **Dumpling Ingredients:** All-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and melted butter create light and fluffy dumplings.
**Making the Soup: Step-by-Step**
1. **Sauté the Vegetables:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened.
2. **Add Broth and Seasonings:** Pour in the turkey or chicken broth and add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. **Prepare the Dumplings:** While the soup simmers, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Add the milk and melted butter, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Add Turkey and Dumplings:** Stir the shredded turkey into the soup. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup.
5. **Cook and Serve:** Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
**Tips for the Best Turkey Dumpling Soup**
* **Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Batter:** Overmixing can result in tough dumplings. Mix until just combined.
* **Simmer, Don’t Boil, the Soup:** Simmering ensures the dumplings cook evenly without falling apart.
* **Taste and Adjust Seasonings:** Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
* **Add Fresh Herbs:** Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for added flavor and freshness.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Substitute vegetable broth for the turkey or chicken broth, and add some white beans or chickpeas instead of turkey.
**Variations to Try**
* **Add More Vegetables:** Include other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or corn.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Creamy Soup:** Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer flavor.
* **Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage.
**Serving Suggestions**
* Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
* A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt adds a tangy creaminess.
* A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the dish.
**Storing and Reheating**
* **Storing:** Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezing:** Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Freeze the soup and dumplings separately for best results.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. If the dumplings have been frozen, add them to the soup during the last 15-20 minutes of reheating.
**FAQ**
* **Can I use store-bought dumplings?**
Yes, you can use store-bought dumpling mix or frozen dumplings if you’re short on time.
* **Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?**
It’s best to make the dumplings fresh, but you can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time.
* **My dumplings are sinking. What am I doing wrong?**
Make sure your soup is simmering, not boiling. Also, avoid overmixing the batter.
* **Can I use gluten-free flour for the dumplings?**
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may be slightly different.
**Enjoy Your Leftover Turkey Dumpling Soup!**
This recipe is a delicious and practical way to make the most of your leftover turkey. Warm, comforting, and easy to customize, this turkey dumpling soup is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!