Delicious and Easy Leftover Turkey Soup in Crock Pot Recipe for a Cozy Meal
#### Leftover Turkey Soup in Crock Pot RecipeAfter the holiday feast, many of us are left with an abundance of turkey. Instead of letting it go to waste, wh……
#### Leftover Turkey Soup in Crock Pot Recipe
After the holiday feast, many of us are left with an abundance of turkey. Instead of letting it go to waste, why not transform those leftovers into a hearty and comforting soup? This **leftover turkey soup in crock pot recipe** is perfect for those chilly days when you want something warm and satisfying. Utilizing your slow cooker, this recipe allows for a hands-off approach, letting you enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.
#### Ingredients You'll Need
To make this scrumptious soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of leftover turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 6 cups of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1 cup of corn (optional)
- 1 cup of egg noodles or rice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Vegetables**: Start by prepping your vegetables. Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the celery. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
2. **Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot**: In your slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Add the shredded turkey, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. If you like, you can also add corn at this stage.
3. **Cook the Soup**: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
4. **Add Noodles or Rice**: If you’re using egg noodles or rice, add them to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This ensures they are cooked perfectly without becoming mushy.
5. **Finish and Serve**: Once the soup is done cooking, stir in the frozen peas and let them warm through for about 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
#### Why This Recipe Works
This **leftover turkey soup in crock pot recipe** is not only straightforward but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. If you prefer different vegetables, feel free to substitute with what you like or have in your fridge. Green beans, potatoes, or bell peppers can all make great additions.
Moreover, using a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop beautifully over time. The turkey becomes tender, and the broth is infused with the essence of the vegetables and herbs. It’s a one-pot meal that makes cleanup easy and gives you more time to relax.
#### Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
#### Conclusion
This **leftover turkey soup in crock pot recipe** is a fantastic way to enjoy your holiday leftovers while creating a warm and comforting meal for your family. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any day of the week. So next time you have turkey leftovers, don’t hesitate to whip up this delightful soup!