THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Comforting Leftover Turkey Soup with Dumplings
This cozy soup is the perfect way to transform your leftover turkey into a warm, satisfying meal. With tender dumplings and hearty vegetables, it’s a comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Comforting Leftover Turkey Soup with Dumplings
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
FROM OUR VIDEO COLLECTION
Noodles with Meat Sauce
Something delicious to watch next.
01
Step 1
Start by placing the turkey carcass in your slow cooker and cover it with broth, water, and a splash of lemon juice. Toss in the carrots, celery, onion, parsley, bay leaves, garlic, and all the herbs and spices—pepper, thyme, poultry seasoning, oregano, dill, onion powder, and garlic powder. Set the slow cooker to high and let everything cook for about 4 hours.
02
Step 2
Once that’s done, take out the carcass and pick all the meat off the bones. Return the shredded turkey to the slow cooker, discard the bones, and keep cooking on high for another 4 hours to let all those flavors deepen.
03
Step 3
About half an hour before you’re ready to eat, bring a pot of water to a boil. While you wait, mix together the flour, Parmesan, baking powder, and rosemary in a bowl. Cut in the shortening until the mixture looks crumbly, then stir in enough milk to make a thick batter that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
04
Step 4
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the boiling water. Turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let the dumplings simmer gently for 5 minutes. When they’re cooked, spoon the dumplings right on top of your turkey soup and enjoy!
Why you’ll love it
This soup is a warm and satisfying way to use up leftovers. It combines rich turkey flavor with soft, fluffy dumplings that make every spoonful comforting. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want something easy and nourishing.
How to serve
Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a bright touch. It also pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon for extra zest.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the dumplings soft. You can freeze the soup without dumplings for up to 2 months and add fresh dumplings when reheating.
