Short description

A comforting and hearty soup made in the slow cooker, this recipe transforms leftover turkey into a nourishing meal. Packed with tender vegetables, flavorful broth, and egg noodles, it’s the perfect cozy dish for chilly days or when you need an easy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Turkey Noodle Soup is simple, wholesome, and satisfying. It’s the ideal way to use up leftover turkey, making sure nothing goes to waste. The slow cooker does all the work, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma while you go about your day. Warm, hearty, and full of flavor, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Slow Cooker Turkey Noodle Soup

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups chicken or turkey broth
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
2 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 cups wide egg noodles
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Place the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and seasonings into the slow cooker.
Add the shredded turkey and broth. Stir to combine.
Cook on HIGH for 3 hours or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Alternatively, cook noodles separately and add them just before serving for firmer texture.
Once the noodles are tender, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then ladle into bowls and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: 3 hours on HIGH or 6–8 hours on LOW

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey for a quick alternative.
Swap egg noodles for orzo, elbow macaroni, or gluten-free pasta.
Add extra vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
Season with your favorite herbs such as rosemary, parsley, or poultry seasoning to customize the flavor.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
For freezing, prepare the soup without noodles and store for up to 3 months. Cook and add noodles fresh when reheating.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add extra broth if needed, as noodles may absorb liquid over time.

FAQs

How long does turkey noodle soup last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for 3–4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze turkey noodle soup?

Yes, but freeze without the noodles. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

Do I need to pre-cook the noodles?

No, you can add uncooked noodles directly to the slow cooker near the end of cooking. If you prefer firmer noodles, cook them separately.

What size slow cooker should I use?

A 6- to 8-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken makes an excellent substitute.

What herbs work best in this soup?

Thyme, sage, rosemary, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves all complement the flavors well.

How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy?

Add noodles in the last 15–30 minutes of cooking, or cook them separately and stir in before serving.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance. Store the noodles separately and add them when reheating.

Is broth or stock better for this recipe?

Both work well. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand—stock tends to give a richer flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Potatoes, zucchini, peas, corn, or green beans all work great in this soup.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Turkey Noodle Soup is a comforting and nourishing meal that makes the most out of simple ingredients. With minimal prep and plenty of flavor, it’s the perfect way to repurpose leftover turkey into something warm and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or storing portions for later, this recipe is a cozy classic you’ll turn to again and again.