If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what to do with turkey leftovers, this Leftover Turkey Soup with Couscous Recipe is the perfect answer to your post-holiday kitchen dilemma. It’s a comforting, warm bowl of goodness that transforms simple ingredients into a nourishing meal that feels like a big, cozy hug. The tender turkey mingles with vegetables and tiny, chewy couscous pearls soaking up the fragrant broth, making this soup not just delicious but delightfully hearty and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to way to celebrate every bit of that leftover turkey magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This soup is a brilliant example of how simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a dish packed with flavor, texture, and beautiful color. Each component plays a key role, from the aromatic thyme to the creamy couscous, building layers of taste that make this soup truly memorable.
- Olive oil: Provides a rich foundation for sautéing vegetables and adds subtle fruitiness to the soup.
- Butter: Adds a silky richness that elevates the overall mouthfeel of the soup.
- Onion (or 2 shallots): Adds sweetness and depth when softened gently.
- Large carrot: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Celery stalks: Contribute a fresh, slightly peppery crunch for balance.
- Garlic clove: Delivers an essential aromatic punch that wakes up the broth.
- Fresh thyme sprigs (or dried thyme): Infuse an earthy, herbaceous note that rounds out the flavor.
- Bay leaves: Impart a subtle herbal complexity throughout cooking.
- Salt and pepper: To taste—these are your flavor enhancers.
- Chopped parsley: Brightens the soup at the end with a fresh, green touch.
- Turkey or chicken stock (6 cups): The flavorful base that brings everything together.
- Cooked turkey or chicken (2 cups): Adds hearty protein and familiar leftover goodness.
- Giant or pearl couscous (1/2 cup): These tiny pasta pearls add wonderful chewiness and soak up the broth beautifully.
How to Make Leftover Turkey Soup with Couscous Recipe
Step 1: Gently Sauté the Vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil and butter over low heat, then add finely chopped onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic to the pan. Cooking these slowly for about 5 minutes softens the vegetables wonderfully, releasing their sweetness and laying the flavorful foundation that will carry the whole soup.
Step 2: Add Stock, Turkey, and Herbs
Pour in the stock and toss in your cooked turkey pieces along with the bay leaves. Turn up the heat just enough to bring the soup to a gentle boil. This step lets all those ingredients mingle, with the turkey lending richness while the bay leaves and thyme deepen the aroma. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper; this little adjustment makes all the difference.
Step 3: Stir in the Couscous and Simmer
Add the couscous directly to the simmering soup and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes. The couscous will plump up and soak in the savory broth, adding texture and a hint of nuttiness. Make sure it’s tender but still pleasantly chewy—that’s the perfect bite!
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Serve Hot
Once the couscous is cooked, remove the soup from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for an herbaceous brightness that contrasts beautifully with the stock’s depth. Serve the soup steaming and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings to any table.
How to Serve Leftover Turkey Soup with Couscous Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few simple garnishes takes this soup from homey to extra special. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can lift the flavors unexpectedly, or a dollop of Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a handful of toasted pine nuts can also provide delightful texture and warmth.
Side Dishes
This soup is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm garlic naan to soak up every last drop. A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements it well, adding freshness to balance the soup’s heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Leftover Turkey Soup with Couscous Recipe in individual rustic bread bowls—edible and charming! Or ladle it into colorful bowls and top with a swirl of pesto or chili oil for a pop of color and flavor kick. Presentation will make your guests feel like they’re savoring something truly unique.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the couscous from absorbing too much liquid, which could thicken the soup overnight. When ready to eat, a little stirring and gentle reheating bring it right back to life.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but be mindful that couscous can change texture when frozen. To minimize this, consider freezing the soup and couscous separately if possible. If freezing altogether, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm your soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to refresh the broth’s consistency. Microwave reheating works too, just stir halfway through to distribute heat evenly and avoid hot spots.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Chicken works wonderfully in this soup and will deliver a similar comforting flavor profile. Whether leftover turkey or chicken, they each absorb the broth perfectly.
What can I substitute for giant or pearl couscous?
If you don’t have pearl couscous, regular small couscous, or even small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini, make great substitutes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so they don’t overcook.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture of the couscous may soften after freezing and thawing. To maintain a better texture, freeze the soup without couscous or add fresh couscous when reheating.
How can I make this soup more filling?
Consider adding additional vegetables like diced potatoes or squash, or toss in some cooked beans for extra heartiness. Adding extra turkey or a splash of cream can also boost richness if desired.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can sauté the vegetables first and then layer everything in a slow cooker, cooking on low for 4-6 hours. Add the couscous during the last 30 minutes to prevent it from becoming too mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Leftover Turkey Soup with Couscous Recipe is simply one of those soul-warming meals that turn humble leftovers into something spectacular. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for cozy nights or anytime you want a little comfort in a bowl. Give it a go, and you might just find a new favorite tradition to savor year-round.
Print
Leftover Turkey Soup with Couscous Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty leftover turkey soup recipe that transforms cooked turkey into a flavorful, nutritious meal featuring sautéed vegetables, tender giant couscous, and aromatic herbs, perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 onion (or 2 shallots), chopped
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 4 sprigs thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 6 cups turkey or chicken stock
- 2 cups cooked turkey or chicken, chopped
- 1/2 cup giant/pearl couscous
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Cook gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not browned.
- Add Stock and Turkey: Pour in the turkey or chicken stock along with the cooked turkey pieces. Add the bay leaves and thyme. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Cook Couscous: Stir in the giant couscous. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer the soup for approximately 10 minutes or until the couscous is tender and has absorbed some of the flavorful broth.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the soup from heat. Discard bay leaves and thyme sprigs if whole. Stir in the chopped parsley for freshness and garnish. Serve the soup hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use leftover roasted turkey or chicken for this soup; dark or white meat works well.
- If giant/pearl couscous is unavailable, regular couscous or small pasta can be substituted but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For added richness, a splash of cream can be stirred in at the end.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
