Ultimate Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup: Fast, Flavorful & Perfect for Leftovers

Transforming leftover turkey into a truly exciting and delicious meal can sometimes feel like a challenge. After the holiday feasts, the thought of another turkey sandwich might not spark joy. But what if you could create a brand new, incredibly flavorful, and comforting dish in mere minutes? This hearty Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup is your ultimate solution! It’s the quickest and most appetizing way to revitalize that leftover turkey, combining tender meat with a vibrant medley of vegetables and the aromatic notes of garlic and fresh sage, all simmered in a rich, savory broth.

Say goodbye to boring post-holiday meals! This healthy turkey noodle soup isn’t just a delicious way to use up your Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey; it’s a brilliant strategy to enjoy another satisfying meal without any culinary fuss. The magic of the Instant Pot means this comforting soup comes together in an impressive 10 minutes of pressure cooking time (plus the time for it to reach pressure), making it arguably the fastest and easiest homemade soup you’ll whip up all season. Its simplicity and speed make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, not just after a big family dinner.

While this recipe brilliantly utilizes leftover roasted turkey, don’t limit its potential to just the holidays. The beauty of this homemade turkey soup is its versatility. You can easily prepare it year-round using freshly cooked turkey breast. For instance, consider using delicious smoked turkey breast for a deeper flavor profile, or quickly prepare turkey using these efficient methods: Air Fryer Turkey Breast or even this super convenient Instant Pot Turkey Breast. This ensures you can enjoy a warm, nourishing bowl of turkey noodle soup whenever the craving strikes, making it a healthy, comforting, and incredibly easy meal for any time of year.

Essential Ingredients for Your Turkey Noodle Soup

Crafting the perfect Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup begins with a selection of fresh, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is key:

• Butter: The foundation of our soup’s rich flavor, butter is used to sauté the vegetables. It adds a wonderful depth and slightly sweet note. If you prefer a dairy-free or lighter option, high-quality olive oil can be used as a fantastic substitute, offering a fruity undertone.
• Veggies: A vibrant mix of vegetables not only adds essential nutrients but also contributes to the soup’s texture and natural sweetness. For this recipe, I’ve chosen a classic combination: crisp carrots, aromatic onion, crunchy celery, and earthy button mushrooms. I always advocate for a generous amount of vegetables in soups, as they truly make the dish more satisfying and wholesome. However, feel free to adjust quantities to your preference, or even introduce other favorites like peas, corn, or diced potatoes for added heartiness. If you have leftover carrots from another dish, they’re excellent in this potato and carrot soup!
• Garlic and Fresh Sage: These two aromatic powerhouses are non-negotiable for a truly authentic turkey soup flavor. Garlic provides a pungent, savory kick, while fresh sage offers an earthy, slightly peppery, and incredibly fragrant aroma that pairs exceptionally well with turkey. If fresh herbs aren’t available, don’t worry! You can easily substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and ½ teaspoon of dried sage, though fresh will always provide a more vibrant taste.
• Chicken Stock: The backbone of any great soup. I highly recommend using a good quality, low-sodium chicken stock or, even better, homemade broth. High-quality stock makes a noticeable difference in the overall depth of flavor. Opting for low-sodium allows you to control the seasoning precisely.
• Shredded Cooked Turkey: This recipe is designed to be the hero of your leftover turkey. Whether it’s roasted, baked, or even smoked turkey, any cooked shredded turkey will work beautifully. About 2 cups of shredded meat is ideal for a rich, satisfying soup.
• Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles are the perfect choice for their tender texture and ability to absorb the savory broth without becoming overly soft. Their traditional shape and consistency make them a comforting addition. If egg noodles aren’t on hand, don’t fret! Other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or even small shells would also work wonderfully. Remember, when cooking pasta directly in the Instant Pot, you’ll generally want to reduce the cooking time to half of what the box suggests to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors. Always taste and adjust to your preference.
• Bay Leaf: A single dried bay leaf infuses the soup with a subtle, aromatic depth that complements the other herbs. Just remember to remove it before serving, as it’s meant to impart flavor, not be eaten. If you don’t have one, the soup will still be delicious, so feel free to omit it.

How to Master Your Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup

Making this incredible turkey noodle soup in your Instant Pot is a breeze, promising a warm, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to achieving perfect results every time:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by turning on the “Saute” function on your Instant Pot. Once hot, add the butter. As it melts, add your chopped carrots, celery, onion, and mushrooms. Stir frequently to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated and cook until they begin to soften and lightly brown, which typically takes about 5 minutes. This crucial step develops a foundational layer of flavor for your soup.
2. Infuse with Flavor: Next, add the minced garlic and fresh sage to the pot. Continue to sauté for just one more minute. This short cooking time allows the aromatics to become fragrant without burning, ensuring their flavors are perfectly integrated into the soup.
3. Combine & Pressure Cook: Pour in the chicken stock, then add your shredded cooked turkey, uncooked egg noodles, bay leaf, kosher salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly and ensure the noodles are mostly submerged in the liquid.
4. Seal & Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the sealing valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time to 3 minutes on High Pressure. The Instant Pot will take some time to build pressure before the cooking countdown begins.
5. Quick Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure by switching the valve to the “Venting” position. Always use caution and keep your hands and face away from the steam vent!
6. Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Your delicious, hearty Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup is ready to be enjoyed!

For a complete, printable recipe card with exact measurements, be sure to scroll down to the recipe box below.

Storing Leftovers:

Any leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and comforting meal later.

No Instant Pot? No Problem! Here’s the Stovetop Method

Don’t have an Instant Pot? You can absolutely still make this incredibly delicious turkey soup on the stovetop. While it requires a little more active attention, the end result is just as comforting and flavorful. For another versatile soup that can be made on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or a slow cooker, check out this excellent Chicken Pastina Soup.

Here’s how to adapt this recipe for traditional stovetop cooking:

1. Sauté in a Stockpot: Grab a large stockpot or Dutch oven and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and mushrooms. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned, which could take 7-10 minutes. This caramelization is key to building flavor.
2. Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh sage and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Broth: Add the chicken stock, shredded turkey, bay leaf, kosher salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it gently simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Cook Noodles Separately: This is a crucial step for stovetop turkey noodle soup. In a separate pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Cooking the noodles separately prevents them from soaking up too much of your precious broth and becoming mushy. Nobody wants a thick, starchy soup!
5. Combine and Serve: Once the noodles are cooked al dente, drain them thoroughly and add them directly to the simmering soup base. Stir everything together, taste, and adjust seasonings (salt and pepper) as needed. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade stovetop turkey noodle soup!

Unlocking Kitchen Efficiency: What Exactly is an Instant Pot?

If you’re new to the world of pressure cooking, you might be wondering, “What is an Instant Pot?” Simply put, an Instant Pot is a modern, multi-functional electric pressure cooker that has revolutionized home cooking. It’s designed to prepare food in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, making it a game-changer for busy households and anyone looking to simplify their meal prep.

Beyond just pressure cooking, these versatile appliances boast a multitude of functions, often combining the capabilities of several kitchen gadgets into one. Depending on the model, an Instant Pot can act as a slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, food warmer, and even a yogurt maker! This “one-pot solution” approach not only saves counter space but also significantly streamlines the cooking process.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Instant Pot is how it takes the intimidation out of traditional stovetop pressure cooking. With intuitive digital controls and built-in safety features, you can simply add your ingredients, set the program, and walk away, returning to a perfectly cooked, delicious warm meal. No more constantly monitoring pots or worrying about pressure levels – the Instant Pot handles it all with ease.

If you’re contemplating purchasing one and are looking for reasons and recommendations, I found an informational post that offers great insights and may help guide your decision. Many models are available, but a popular choice, and the one I personally use, is this 6-Quart Instant Pot. It’s an excellent all-rounder, offering great value for its multi-functional capabilities.

Choosing the Perfect Pasta: Best Noodles for Your Turkey Soup

While this recipe calls for egg noodles, understanding your pasta options can elevate your soup experience. Egg noodles are a beloved classic for soups, and for good reason! They stand apart from typical boxed durum wheat pasta in several ways, offering a distinct taste, texture, and color.

Traditionally, egg noodles are broader and possess a noticeably yellow hue, thanks to the eggs incorporated into the dough. This egg content also contributes to a richer, more savory flavor profile and a wonderfully tender, yet resilient, texture that holds up well in brothy soups and hearty casseroles alike. They absorb the soup’s flavors beautifully without dissolving into mush.

However, if egg noodles aren’t readily available, don’t let that deter you! This turkey soup is remarkably flexible, and you can use almost any type of small to medium pasta you prefer. Options like rotini, ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even small shells are excellent choices. For inspiration, you can see how well rotini works in this Rotisserie Chicken Soup recipe.

The crucial point when cooking pasta directly in the Instant Pot is to adjust the cooking time. A general rule of thumb is to cook it for approximately half the amount of time indicated on the pasta package directions. For example, if traditional egg noodles typically cook in 7 minutes on the stovetop, a 3-minute pressure cook time is usually perfect for achieving that ideal al dente texture in the Instant Pot for this recipe.

Herbal Harmony: Enhancing Your Turkey Soup with Aromatics

The right blend of herbs can transform a simple soup into an aromatic masterpiece. In keeping with the classic, comforting essence of turkey soup, particularly after a holiday meal, I’ve chosen the timeless combination of garlic and sage. This pairing instantly evokes memories of Thanksgiving and festive gatherings. To me, it’s a perfect culinary marriage that infuses the soup with a robust, earthy, and warmly aromatic flavor that is simply irresistible.

This garlic and sage duo is my absolute favorite way to season this soup, not just for holiday leftovers but throughout the year. However, the world of herbs offers endless possibilities to enliven any soup, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to your personal preference.

Many other herbs also create winning combinations with turkey. Common and highly complementary additions include:

• Thyme: Offers a subtle, earthy, and slightly floral note.
• Parsley: Provides a fresh, clean, and slightly peppery taste, often added at the end for brightness.
• Oregano: Imparts a bold, warm, and somewhat bitter flavor, common in Mediterranean cuisine.
• Chives: Delivers a mild oniony zest without overpowering other flavors.
• Basil: Adds a sweet, peppery, and slightly minty aroma, great for a fresher take.

For those who enjoy experimenting with different taste profiles, more adventurous choices like dill (for a fresh, slightly tangy note), lemon balm (for a bright, citrusy aroma), or even a hint of mint (for an unexpected cooling sensation) can create unique and intriguing flavor combinations. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

While fresh herbs undoubtedly provide the most vibrant and nuanced flavors, it’s not always feasible to have them on hand. If you find yourself without fresh herbs, dried alternatives are a perfectly acceptable substitute. Just remember that the concentration of flavor differs significantly between fresh and dried forms, so the amounts you use will need careful adjustment. We’ll delve into the specifics of dried vs. fresh herb conversions next.

If you’re exploring other soup ideas or prefer a different flavor altogether, you might enjoy this great-looking Zucchini Carrot Soup! And for another super flavorful option with a unique twist, try this Curried Butternut Squash Soup.

The Art of Conversion: Dried vs. Fresh Herbs in Your Cooking

Understanding the difference in potency between dried and fresh herbs is crucial for successful seasoning. It might seem counterintuitive, but dried herbs are generally more potent than their fresh counterparts. This is primarily because fresh herbs, like basil and parsley, contain a high water content—often 80 to 90 percent. When herbs are dried, this water evaporates, leaving behind a more concentrated flavor due to the intensified essential oils and aromatic compounds.

Here are some general rules of thumb for converting between fresh and dried herbs:

• Flaky Dried Herbs (like oregano, thyme, rosemary, or sage): The most common ratio is 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs to 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. So, for the 1 teaspoon of fresh sage in this recipe, you would use about ⅓ teaspoon of dried sage. (The original recipe specified 1/2 teaspoon dried sage, which is also a common adjustment for strong flavors.)
• Ground Dried Herbs: If you’re using ground versions of flaky herbs (e.g., ground oregano instead of dried oregano leaves), their flavor is even more concentrated because the surface area is larger, releasing more oils. The rule here is approximately 1 teaspoon of dried leaf herbs to ½ teaspoon of ground dried herbs.
• Pungent Ground Spices (like ground ginger or turmeric): For very pungent ground spices, the ratio can be even more extreme, often around 4 parts fresh to 1 part dried. This means you’d use much less of the dried form.

It’s important to remember that herbs like rosemary and thyme, which have heartier, woodier leaves, tend to have an even greater flavor intensity when dried compared to softer-leafed herbs like basil. Therefore, it’s always wise to start with a conservative amount of dried hard-leafed herbs and add more to taste.

For this specific Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup recipe, if you’re substituting fresh herbs, I recommend using approximately 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and ½ teaspoon of dried sage in place of the fresh garlic and sage. These general guidelines will help you achieve perfectly balanced and delicious seasonings in your soup.

Customizing Your Soup: Chicken Instead of Turkey? Absolutely!

Don’t have any leftover turkey on hand, or simply prefer chicken? No problem at all! This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to use chicken instead of turkey, resulting in an equally delicious and comforting soup. A roasted chicken would be an excellent choice, providing a rich, savory base similar to roasted turkey.

Since the recipe calls for approximately 2 cups of shredded cooked meat, you can effortlessly transform a rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken breast or thighs into this hearty soup whenever the craving strikes. It’s a fantastic way to make a comforting meal using ingredients you likely already have. You could even use flavorful leftovers from these Smoked Chicken Quarters or from this Chicken Leg Quarters recipe.

If you’re starting with raw chicken breast, simply dice it and sauté it in the Instant Pot (or stockpot) alongside the vegetables until it’s cooked through before adding the broth and other ingredients. This ensures the chicken is tender and fully flavored. If you have some cooked chicken left from another meal, this Baked Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is another hearty meal perfect for chilly nights.

And if you’re specifically looking for a dedicated chicken soup recipe, I highly recommend trying this Chicken Wild Rice Soup for another delightful variation.

Freezing Your Soup: Tips for Optimal Storage

The question of freezing noodle soup often arises, and the answer is a bit nuanced: yes and no. While it’s generally possible to freeze most soups, I don’t typically recommend freezing this turkey noodle soup with the noodles already incorporated. The reason is simple: pasta tends to get mushy and loses its desirable texture once thawed and reheated after freezing. In my household, a mushy noodle is a definite no-no!

However, you absolutely can freeze the soup base (the broth with vegetables and turkey) without the noodles. This is a brilliant strategy for meal prepping and enjoying homemade soup whenever you wish. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Prepare the Base: Make the turkey soup as directed, but do not add the noodles at any stage.
2. Cool Thoroughly: Allow the soup base to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This prevents ice crystals from forming and preserves quality.
3. Portion and Store: Pour the cooled soup base into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, lay them flat on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then stack to save space.
4. Freeze: The soup base can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for future meals.
5. Thaw and Finish: When you’re ready to enjoy your turkey noodle soup, simply transfer the frozen soup base to the fridge overnight to thaw.
6. Reheat and Add Noodles: Once thawed, pour the base into a stockpot and gently reheat it on the stovetop until simmering. Meanwhile, in a separate pot, cook your egg noodles (or preferred pasta) according to package directions until al dente. Drain the cooked noodles thoroughly, transfer them directly to the hot soup base, give it a quick stir, and serve immediately. This method ensures your noodles remain perfectly textured and delicious!

The Ultimate Base: Homemade Turkey Broth vs. Chicken Stock

Using homemade turkey broth instead of store-bought chicken stock is not only possible but highly encouraged for an even richer, deeper flavor profile in your turkey noodle soup! Many culinary enthusiasts make delicious homemade turkey stock from leftover turkey carcasses after major holidays like Thanksgiving. This is a fantastic way to maximize the use of your holiday bird and creates an unparalleled soup base.

Homemade turkey stock freezes beautifully and can be stored for months, acting as a secret weapon for incredibly flavorful soups and gravies long after the holidays are over. It provides a unique depth of flavor that store-bought chicken stock, while good, often can’t match.

In recent years, with smaller holiday gatherings, I haven’t always had a full turkey carcass to make homemade stock. For instance, this year, for our family of three, I might opt for an Air Fryer Turkey Breast, which provides just enough roasted turkey for this soup without leaving behind a substantial frame for broth. In such cases, I confidently use a high-quality, low-sodium chicken stock as an excellent and convenient alternative.

However, if you have the luxury of a batch of homemade turkey stock readily available—whether from a recent holiday or one you’ve thoughtfully prepared and frozen—then by all means, use it! It will elevate this turkey noodle soup to an extraordinary level of savory goodness.

Beyond Soup: Complementary Recipes & Other Hearty Meals

This Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but sometimes a little something extra can round out the dining experience. If you’re looking for perfect accompaniments, I often serve this soup with light, savory sides like these yeast-free Dinner Muffins or a slice of moist Dairy-free Cornbread. Both are wonderful for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth!

My passion for hearty and wholesome soups is boundless. If you share that love, you must try this Instant Pot Tortellini Soup – it’s incredibly quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a healthy family favorite. Similarly, this Beef and Barley Soup is another fantastic, robust option that promises warmth and satisfaction on a chilly day.

For a refreshing yet substantial side salad that pairs beautifully with any soup, my go-to is this Panzanella Salad. This Tuscan-style bread salad, with its vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and crusty bread, is wonderfully filling and a truly terrific complement.

And for those seeking another delightful way to enjoy turkey, don’t miss out on this fantastic Turkey Chops Recipe!

I genuinely hope you enjoy preparing and savoring this Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup. If you give it a try, please take a moment to leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you. Your feedback is greatly appreciated! Happy cooking! 🙂