Thanksgiving Crockpot Turkey Noodle Soup High Protein Under $20 Feeds 8

After the chaos of Thanksgiving, the last thing you want to do is spend hours over a hot stove. This Thanksgiving Crockpot Turkey Noodle Soup is the ultimate “set it and forget it” solution for those delicious leftovers. Not only does it transform your turkey carcass and extra meat into a cozy, comforting meal, but it also stays strictly under a $20 budget while feeding a crowd of eight. By using your slow cooker, you allow the flavors of sage, thyme, and roasted turkey to meld perfectly without any extra effort on your part. It is high in protein, budget-friendly, and tastes even better the next day.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition values

(Per serving)

• Calories: 285 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Carbs: 24g

Why Make This Thanksgiving Crockpot Turkey Noodle Soup High Protein Under $20 Feeds 8

This recipe is a game-changer for post-holiday recovery. First, it is incredibly cost-effective. You are utilizing ingredients you likely already have—like leftover turkey, celery, and carrots—meaning your grocery bill stays well under $20. Second, it is a nutritional powerhouse. Each serving is packed with over 30 grams of protein, helping you feel full and energized. Finally, the convenience of the crockpot means you can clean up the house or nap while the soup develops a rich, homemade taste that rivals any gourmet bistro.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 8 cups turkey or chicken broth (low sodium)
• 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
• 3 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 oz wide egg noodles
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
• 1 bay leaf

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables and Turkey

Start by dicing your yellow onion, slicing the carrots into rounds, and chopping the celery. If you haven’t already, shred or cube your leftover Thanksgiving turkey. Ensure you remove any skin or bones from the meat before adding it to the pot. If you have the turkey carcass, you can actually place a portion of it in the slow cooker for added depth of flavor, just remember to remove it before serving.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the shredded turkey, carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic into the basin of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Pour in the 8 cups of turkey or chicken broth. Add the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the liquid.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot with its lid. Set the temperature to LOW and cook for 6 to 7 hours, or set it to HIGH and cook for 3 to 4 hours. You want the vegetables to be tender and the flavors to fully infuse. Cooking on low is recommended for the most tender results and a richer broth.

Step 4: Add the Egg Noodles

About 20 to 30 minutes before you are ready to serve, stir in the wide egg noodles. Increase the heat to HIGH if it was on low. Cover and cook until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Do not add the noodles too early, or they will become mushy and soak up all the delicious broth.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Plating

Remove the bay leaf and any bones if you used a carcass. Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the hot soup into large bowls, ensuring everyone gets a generous portion of turkey and vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness, then serve with crusty bread or leftover dinner rolls.

Expert Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Crockpot Turkey Noodle Soup High Protein Under $20 Feeds 8

To keep the protein count high without breaking the bank, use every scrap of meat from the turkey legs and thighs; these parts are often the most flavorful. If you want to prevent the noodles from soaking up all the broth for leftovers, cook the noodles separately on the stove and add them to individual bowls when serving. Additionally, adding a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar right before serving can brighten the heavy flavors and make the soup taste much fresher.

Delicious Variations

• Creamy Turkey Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a silky texture.
• Low Carb Version: Swap the egg noodles for zucchini noodles, cauliflower florets, or extra cabbage to reduce the carbohydrate count.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the onions for a soup that clears the sinuses.
• Wild Rice Twist: Replace the egg noodles with 1 cup of wild rice. Add the rice at the beginning of the cook time instead of at the end.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked leftovers?
Yes, you can use raw turkey breast or thighs. Simply place them in the crockpot at the beginning. Once fully cooked and tender, remove them, shred with two forks, and return the meat to the pot before adding the noodles.

How long does this soup stay fresh in the fridge?
This soup will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Note that the noodles will continue to soften the longer they sit in the broth.

Can I freeze this turkey noodle soup?
You can freeze the soup base (turkey, veggies, and broth) for up to 3 months. However, it is best to freeze it without the noodles. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the soup, bring it to a simmer, and add fresh noodles then.

What if I don’t have turkey broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth works perfectly fine as a substitute. If you want a richer flavor, you can add a turkey bouillon cube or a spoonful of turkey base (like Better Than Bouillon).

How do I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot 30 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

This Thanksgiving Crockpot Turkey Noodle Soup is the ultimate way to respect your holiday budget while still serving a high-quality, high-protein meal. It takes the stress out of post-holiday cooking and ensures that not a single bit of your delicious turkey goes to waste. With its savory broth, tender vegetables, and filling noodles, it is a crowd-pleaser that provides eight satisfying servings for less than $20. Give your kitchen a break and let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting this season!