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Mexican Style Leftover Turkey Soup: A Delicious Way to Repurpose Holiday Leftovers

Don’t let your cherished holiday turkey go to waste! This vibrant and hearty Mexican Style Leftover Turkey Soup is an incredibly easy and flavorful solution, transforming tender turkey into an exciting new meal. With rich chicken broth, diced tomatoes, sweet corn, creamy coconut milk, and a kick from jalapeños, it’s a comforting bowl that breathes new life into your post-holiday kitchen.

The holiday season often brings an abundance of delicious food, and with it, a fridge full of leftovers. While a classic turkey sandwich certainly has its charm, imagine transforming that cherished holiday turkey into an entirely new culinary experience. This isn’t just about saving money or reducing food waste; it’s about extending the joy of your festive meals by creating fresh, exciting dishes. Our Mexican-style turkey soup offers a brilliant solution, reinventing leftover turkey into a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, proving that post-holiday meals can be just as exciting as the main event.

Reinventing Leftovers: Why This Mexican Turkey Soup is a Game-Changer

After the grand feast of Thanksgiving or Christmas, enthusiasm for plain leftovers can wane quickly. It’s common to find a fridge packed with turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing that no one quite knows what to do with. This is where our Mexican Style Leftover Turkey Soup steps in as a culinary hero. By introducing a completely different flavor profile – vibrant, spicy, and creamy – you can cleverly disguise the fact that you’re using leftovers. Your family and guests will be none the wiser, simply enjoying a hearty, delicious bowl of soup that feels entirely new and special. It’s an effortless way to make those coveted holiday remains disappear in the most delightful way possible, all while offering a refreshing change from traditional post-holiday fare.

The Ultimate Leftover Turkey Soup for Any Occasion

This isn’t just a recipe designed exclusively for Thanksgiving turkey; it’s perfect for any cooked turkey you might have on hand throughout the year. Whether it’s from a Sunday roast or a weeknight meal, any leftover turkey meat can be brilliantly utilized here. Even leftover cooked chicken can easily be swapped in, making this an incredibly versatile meal that transcends seasonal boundaries. Its straightforward preparation ensures that you can whip up a batch quickly, making it one of the best ways to “clean out the fridge” after a big holiday or simply to use up poultry. Beyond immediate enjoyment, this soup is also incredibly freezer-friendly. Prepare it in advance and store it for those busy weeknights when you need a quick, wholesome meal. Having a homemade, flavorful soup ready in the freezer is a true kitchen win, helping you save time and money while enjoying delicious, healthy food whenever the craving strikes.

If you’re eager to discover more innovative ways to use your turkey leftovers, you’ll love these other popular recipes: Turkey Pasta Bake, a comforting and cheesy dish perfect for a family dinner; Turkey Noodle Soup, a classic and soothing remedy for cold days; or these delightful Turkey Salad Sliders, perfect for lighter bites, picnics, or easy entertaining.

Quick & Easy Mexican Turkey Soup Recipe for Busy Days

One of the greatest advantages of this Mexican style leftover turkey soup is its incredible speed and simplicity. It truly takes just minutes of active preparation, making it an ideal choice for the day after a big holiday when you’re likely tired of cooking but still craving something satisfying and comforting. It’s light enough to feel refreshing after a heavy festive meal, yet hearty enough to leave you feeling completely content. Serve it alongside your favorite leftover vegetable sides, or whip up a fresh crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette for a perfectly balanced and enjoyable lunch or dinner that everyone will appreciate. This minimal effort, maximum flavor recipe means you can quickly get out of the kitchen and back to enjoying your post-holiday downtime.

When planning to make this soup, remember that cooked turkey should ideally be used within 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. This is a crucial food safety guideline to keep in mind. If you anticipate not making the soup within this timeframe, it’s best practice to promptly freeze your cooked turkey as soon as possible after the meal. Freezing will preserve its freshness and allow you to thaw it later whenever you’re ready to create this delicious and convenient meal. Proper storage and timely usage are key to both ensuring food safety and maximizing the delicious flavor of your ingredients.

Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Homemade Turkey Soup

Creating this rich and aromatic soup starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the distinctive Mexican-inspired flavors that make this soup so irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need to gather to bring this incredible recipe to life, along with some tips for selection and substitution:

Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil forms the base, perfect for sautéing aromatics and infusing a subtle richness into the soup. Any neutral cooking oil like canola or vegetable oil will also work if you prefer.
Onion: Diced white onion provides a foundational sweetness and aromatic depth to the soup base. Yellow or red onions can be substituted based on preference and what you have available.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic cloves are non-negotiable for the best, most pungent flavor that truly shines through. While pre-minced jarred garlic is a convenient alternative in a pinch, fresh is always superior.
Spices: The heart of the Mexican flavor profile! A thoughtfully balanced blend of garlic powder, onion powder, earthy cumin, warm chili powder, aromatic dried oregano, vibrant paprika, and essential salt and black pepper creates a complex and inviting spice blend. Don’t be shy about adjusting these to your personal taste – a little more chili powder for heat, or extra cumin for depth.
Chicken Broth: This liquid gold forms the flavorful base of your soup. Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth to maintain control over the overall saltiness of the dish, allowing you to season to perfection. For an even deeper turkey flavor, consider using homemade turkey stock or turkey broth if you happen to have some on hand from your holiday meal.
Cooked Turkey: The star of the show! Use shredded or cubed cooked turkey. This is where your Thanksgiving or Christmas leftovers truly shine, but any pre-cooked turkey breast or thighs will do, making it adaptable all year round.
Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes adds a lovely acidity, freshness, and a pleasant chunky texture to the soup, balancing the richness of the other ingredients. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a smoky complexity.
Canned Jalapeños: Chopped jalapeño peppers introduce a gentle warmth and a characteristic Mexican zing. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spice, or for less heat, make sure to remove the seeds and membranes thoroughly.
Corn: Whether you use a can of drained corn or a bag of frozen kernels, corn adds a burst of sweetness and vibrant color, complementing the savory flavors and adding a pleasant texture.
Coconut Milk: This ingredient is key to achieving a wonderfully creamy and slightly exotic texture in your Mexican turkey soup. For a richer, more indulgent soup, use full-fat coconut milk. Light coconut milk works perfectly for a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess significantly.
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro is essential for brightening the soup with its distinctive fresh, herbaceous notes, elevating the Mexican flavor profile. If cilantro isn’t your preferred herb (some find it soapy), fresh parsley can offer a milder, greener alternative without overpowering the dish.

Optional Toppings to Elevate Your Soup:

Enhance each serving with these delicious additions, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to perfection:

Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of grated sharp cheddar cheese adds a savory, melty finish and a touch of richness. For a more authentic Mexican touch, try grated Monterey Jack cheese or a pre-packaged Mexican blend.
Green Onion: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild, fresh onion flavor and a vibrant pop of green color, adding a subtle crunch.
Avocado: Diced or sliced avocado adds a luxurious creaminess and healthy fats, which can beautifully mellow any spice and provide a smooth texture contrast.
Lime Wedges: Serving with lime wedges is a must! It allows guests to squeeze fresh lime juice into their bowl, adding a bright, zesty counterpoint that truly awakens and balances all the flavors in the soup.
Extra Cilantro: A final garnish of fresh cilantro reinforces the vibrant, herbaceous aroma and taste, making for a beautiful presentation.
Tortilla Strips or Chips: For a delightful crunch and satisfying texture, crushed tortilla chips or homemade crispy tortilla strips are excellent additions that mimic the experience of a classic tortilla soup.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds tanginess and extra creaminess, perfect for balancing the spicy notes and cooling the palate.

How to Prepare Your Delicious Mexican Turkey Soup, Step-by-Step

This incredibly flavorful and satisfying soup comes together in approximately 20 minutes, making it an ideal meal for those busy days when you crave something homemade and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bowl every time:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. Begin by placing a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil, allowing it to shimmer slightly. Once hot, add your diced onions and cook them gently, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, fragrant, and translucent. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, and they will start to release their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Infuse with Garlic and Spices. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. Immediately add the full array of spices: garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir constantly for about one minute, allowing the spices to toast lightly and bloom in the hot oil. This crucial step enhances their flavors significantly and releases their aromatic compounds.

Step 3: Combine with Turkey and Broth. Introduce your shredded or cubed cooked turkey to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it fully coats the turkey and mixes with the aromatics and spices. Give it a good stir to combine all the initial flavors and create a harmonious base.

Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients. Next, add the diced tomatoes (which should be drained to avoid excess liquid), canned jalapeños (chopped), drained corn (canned or thawed frozen), and the creamy coconut milk. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure all ingredients are well distributed in the broth and simmering liquid.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady, gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This simmering time is crucial as it allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and for the soup to warm through completely. The coconut milk will integrate smoothly, creating a rich, luscious consistency.

Step 6: Finish and Serve. Finally, stir in the fresh chopped cilantro. This adds a burst of vibrant flavor and freshness that is characteristic of Mexican cuisine. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately with your chosen optional toppings, allowing each person to customize their perfect bowl. Enjoy the delightful blend of Mexican-inspired flavors!

Storing and Freezing Your Mexican Turkey Soup for Future Enjoyment

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this delicious soup for days to come or save it for a future meal, making meal planning a breeze. Once your Mexican Style Leftover Turkey Soup has cooled down completely to room temperature (this is important to prevent bacterial growth and protect your refrigerator’s efficiency), transfer it to an airtight container or a heavy-duty, re-sealable plastic freezer bag. It’s always a good practice to label your containers with the date and contents to keep track of freshness and avoid any guesswork later. The soup can be safely refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for convenient meal prep or easy lunches throughout the week.

For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture. If using Ziploc bags for freezing, make sure to leave some headspace (about an inch or two) at the top to allow for expansion as the soup freezes, then lay the bags flat in the freezer for efficient and space-saving storage. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or warm it in the microwave until thoroughly hot and steaming. For a quicker thawing process, you can place the sealed bag or container in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes or so until the soup is thawed enough to transfer to a pot for reheating. Remember, for paramount food safety, any leftover turkey soup that has been left at room temperature for more than two hours should be discarded to prevent the risk of foodborne illness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leftover Turkey Soup

How long is leftover turkey good for soup? For optimal safety and flavor, it is best to use cooked leftover turkey for soup within 3-4 days of its original preparation, provided it has been properly refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
Can I make soup with week-old turkey? To ensure food safety, it’s strongly recommended to make and consume your turkey soup within the 3-4 day window after your initial turkey meal. Cooked poultry stored for a week or longer in the refrigerator poses a higher risk of bacterial growth, even if it appears and smells fine. If you don’t plan to prepare the soup within this timeframe, freeze your leftover turkey as soon as possible after the meal. You can then defrost it safely when you’re ready to make the soup, preserving both quality and safety.
Why is my turkey soup bland? A bland soup often means it needs more seasoning! Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder to taste throughout the cooking process. A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the very end can also brighten the flavors significantly, cutting through richness and adding zest. Liberal use of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add an extra layer of freshness and vibrancy. Consider adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier kick.
How do you thicken turkey soup broth? There are several effective ways to thicken your soup if you desire a heartier consistency. One common and easy method is to create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water until smooth, then stirring it into the simmering soup and cooking for a few more minutes until thickened. Alternatively, for a natural thickening, you can mash a portion of the cooked beans or vegetables (like corn or tomatoes) against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon. Or, simply load the soup with plenty of hearty vegetables and additional shredded turkey for a naturally fuller body and texture.
What can I serve with Mexican turkey soup? This versatile soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider warm tortillas, crispy tortilla chips for dipping and crunch, a side of fluffy rice, or even a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. Don’t forget an array of toppings like avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, extra cilantro, and lime wedges for a complete and customizable meal experience.

Creative Substitutions for Your Mexican Turkey Soup

One of the joys of home cooking is the freedom to customize recipes to your liking, experimenting with ingredients that suit your personal taste, dietary needs, and what you conveniently have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this Mexican turkey soup truly your own!

Protein Alternatives: If turkey is scarce or you prefer a different protein, cooked rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken can be seamlessly substituted for the turkey. For a hearty vegetarian version, simply omit the meat entirely and load up on plant-based proteins like black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans. If going the vegetarian route, ensure you use vegetable broth or stock instead of chicken broth.
Broth Options: For an even deeper, richer turkey flavor that truly highlights the poultry, consider using homemade turkey stock or turkey broth instead of chicken broth. It’s a fantastic way to maximize the flavor from your holiday bird.
Tomato Variations: Instead of regular diced tomatoes, try a can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a subtle smoky depth that complements the Mexican spices. Alternatively, for a different layer of authentic Mexican flavor and a slightly thicker consistency, a good quality red enchilada sauce can be used.
Creaminess Boost: While coconut milk provides a wonderful creamy texture and subtle sweetness, you have other options. You can substitute it with half & half, heavy cream, or even a dairy-free creamer for different flavor and texture profiles. For a tangier creaminess, a swirl of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream can be added into individual bowls at the end of cooking.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables you have in your fridge. Diced bell peppers (any color), zucchini, sweet potatoes (diced small), or even a handful of fresh spinach or kale can add nutrients, color, and texture. Add harder vegetables with the broth to ensure they cook through properly.
Bean Power: To add more substance and fiber, consider adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans to the soup along with the corn and tomatoes. They’ll make the soup even heartier and more filling.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Mexican Turkey Soup

Unlock the full potential of your Mexican-style turkey soup with these handy tips and creative additions, ensuring every spoonful is packed with flavor:

Adjust the Spice Level to Your Liking: For those who love a serious kick, don’t shy away from adding extra cayenne pepper, a pinch of red chili flakes, finely diced poblano pepper, or canned green chilies along with the jalapeños. A dash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the pot or at the table can also personalize the heat for each diner.
Thoughtful Serving Suggestions: Elevate the meal by serving the soup with crunchy tortilla chips or homemade crispy tortilla strips for a delightful texture contrast. Warm, soft flour or corn tortillas are excellent for dipping, and a side of fluffy rice or a simple salad can complete the meal.
Try the Slow Cooker Method for Convenience: Turn this into an even more hands-off meal by using your crock pot. After you’ve completed the initial sautéing of the garlic and onions (steps 1 & 2), transfer them along with all the remaining ingredients (except fresh cilantro) into your slow cooker. Let it simmer on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours. Stir in the fresh cilantro just before serving for ultimate freshness.
Enhance Creaminess Even More: For an extra layer of rich, velvety texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt into each individual bowl just before serving. This also adds a pleasant tang that beautifully complements the savory and spicy notes of the soup.
Add Extra Color and Crunch with Bell Peppers: Incorporate some vibrant diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green work wonderfully) into the pot when you add the corn and tomatoes. They’ll add a touch of sweetness, a slight crunch, and enhance both the visual appeal and nutritional value of the soup.
Boost Mexican Flavor with Taco Seasoning: For an even more pronounced and authentic Mexican flavor profile, stir in a packet of taco seasoning or a homemade blend of your favorite Mexican spices during the simmering stage. This can deepen the overall complexity and bring an extra layer of zesty goodness to your soup.
Fresh Herb Power: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs! Besides cilantro, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or even a touch of epazote (if you can find it at a specialty market) can add authentic nuances and brightness.

More Comforting Soup Recipes to Love

If you’re a soup enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled to explore these other heartwarming and flavorful recipes, perfect for any season and guaranteed to bring comfort to your table:

Cream of Reuben Soup (pictured above) – A unique and savory twist on a classic sandwich, offering a surprisingly delicious creamy broth with familiar deli flavors.
French Sauerkraut Soup – A surprisingly delicate and flavorful soup with a rich history, offering a tangy and savory experience.
Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup – All the beloved flavors of chicken parmesan in a comforting, rich, and cheesy soup form, perfect for Italian food lovers.
Cabbage Roll Soup – Enjoy the classic savory flavors of hearty cabbage rolls without all the tedious rolling work, a true weeknight wonder.
Hamburger Soup With or Without Noodles – A versatile and hearty family-favorite, packed with ground beef and vegetables, perfect for a chilly evening.
Easiest Lasagna Soup – Get the comforting taste of rich, cheesy lasagna in a fraction of the time with this simple and satisfying soup recipe.

Creative Recipes to Repurpose Your Holiday Leftovers

Never let a single delicious morsel go to waste after a big holiday feast! No matter what ingredients you find remaining in your kitchen, we have an array of creative and inspiring solutions to help you make the most of your festive bounty. Our comprehensive Round-up of Holiday Leftovers Recipes offers fantastic ideas to transform those delicious remnants into entirely new, epic meals. From savory casseroles to delightful sandwiches and more innovative soups, these recipes ensure that tomorrow’s dining is just as wonderful and exciting as yesterday’s celebration, preventing food waste and sparking culinary creativity.

This Mexican-style leftover turkey soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a brilliant strategy to ensure your cherished Thanksgiving or holiday turkey leftovers are enjoyed to their fullest potential. Coming together in mere minutes, it frees you from the kitchen quickly, allowing you to relax, enjoy the holiday spirit, or even take advantage of those fantastic Black Friday shopping deals. Enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that makes the most of your festive bounty, without any of the post-holiday cooking fatigue!

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Overhead of Mexican Style Leftover Turkey Soup in a white bowl

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Mexican Style Leftover Turkey Soup

Leftover turkey, swimming in chicken broth, with diced tomatoes, corn, coconut milk, and jalapenos makes for a delicious and hearty Mexican Style Leftover Turkey Soup. An easy way to repurpose your Thanksgiving leftovers into a flavorful soup.

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

20 mins

Total Time

30 mins

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American/ Mexican

Keyword: easy leftover turkey soup, homemade turkey soup, leftover turkey for soup, leftover turkey soup, leftover turkey soup ideas, leftover turkey turkey soup, Mexican turkey soup, spicy turkey soup, turkey soup, turkey soup recipe, without noodles, without rice

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 294 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Classic Red Enamel Dutch Oven (Island Spice Red)
AmazonBasics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Lid, 8-Quart
Herb Scissors
12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
3 cups cooked turkey, shredded
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup canned jalapeños, chopped
1 can (15.25 ounces) corn, drained
1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional Toppings:
Cheddar cheese
Green onion
Avocado
Lime wedges
Cilantro

Instructions

Place a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Add the onions and cook until translucent (3-5 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Then, add the spices (garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper) and continue to cook for another minute, stirring constantly to toast the spices.
Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (drained), corn (drained), chopped jalapeños, and coconut milk, along with the shredded cooked turkey. Stir everything to combine well.
Allow the soup to come to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat slightly and let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Finally, stir in the fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately with your favorite optional toppings.

Notes

Once the turkey soup has cooled to room temperature, store it in an airtight container or a re-sealable plastic bag. It’s always a good idea to label the container with the date and contents. The soup can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. If freezing in a Ziploc bag, leave some space at the top for the soup to expand and lay the bags flat in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly hot.

To quicken the thawing process, you can place the sealed bag or container in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes or so until the soup is thawed enough to transfer to a pot for reheating. Note that leftover turkey soup that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be discarded to ensure food safety.

Nutrition