As the winter chill sets in and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of soup. Recently, I found myself craving something hearty and satisfying, so I turned to my trusty slow cooker for an easy yet flavorful answer: Slow-Cooker Turkey and Dumplings Soup. On a particularly busy day, the aroma wafting through my home became an irresistible invitation, pulling my family together around the dinner table.
With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking approach, this dish beautifully combines tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings simmered to perfection. It’s a delightful way to use Thanksgiving leftovers or just to indulge in a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Each bite feels like a warm hug, reminding me of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Let me show you how to create a homemade version that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up!
Why is Slow-Cooker Turkey and Dumplings Soup a must-try?
Comfort in a Bowl: This hearty soup is the ultimate remedy for chilly nights, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
Effortless Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can set your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
Ingredients You Love: Packed with tender turkey, fresh veggies, and fluffy dumplings, it celebrates wholesome flavors that please everyone.
Perfect for Leftovers: Transform your Thanksgiving turkey into a cozy meal, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love diving into this bowl of goodness, making it a hit for family dinners or gatherings.
Instantly, you’ll have a dish that feels like a warm hug and tastes like home!
Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
- 8 cups lower-sodium chicken broth – A flavorful base that keeps the soup healthful without sacrificing taste.
- 4 cups shredded cooked turkey – Perfect for utilizing leftovers while adding protein and heartiness.
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion – Brings a subtle sweetness to the mix, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup chopped carrots – Adds vibrant color and natural sweetness, boosting the nutritional value.
- 1 cup chopped celery – Provides a lovely aroma and a slight crunch, complementing the other veggies.
- 1 Tbsp. minced garlic – Infuses the soup with a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 Tbsp. dried thyme – Adds an aromatic earthiness that’s classic for soup recipes.
For the Dumplings
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour – Ensures your dumplings rise beautifully for a light and fluffy texture.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch – Helps thicken the soup while creating tender dumplings.
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt – Enhances the flavor of the dish without overwhelming it.
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth without too much heat.
- 3/4 cup whole buttermilk – Keeps the dumplings moist and adds a slight tanginess.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together for a cohesive dumpling mixture.
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and flavor to your dumplings.
For Garnish
- Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley – A vibrant finishing touch that adds freshness and color to each bowl.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a heartwarming bowl of Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup that fills not only your stomach but also your home with love and comfort!
How to Make Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup
-
Combine Ingredients: In your 6-quart slow cooker, place the chicken broth, shredded turkey, chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Cover it up and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, until the turkey and vegetables are tender and the aroma fills your home.
-
Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup water, cornstarch, and kosher salt. Stir this mixture into the turkey and veggie blend in the slow cooker. Cover and switch to HIGH heat, cooking for about 10 minutes until the mixture begins to simmer.
-
Prepare the Dumpling Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and black pepper. In a separate small bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg together. Mix the buttermilk blend into the flour mixture until just combined, then fold in the melted butter gently.
-
Cook the Dumplings: Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of the batter into the simmering soup. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20 to 25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a wooden pick into the center of the dumplings—if it comes out clean, they are ready! Garnish the dish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic weeknights! You can chop the onions, carrots, and celery up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the shredded turkey can be prepared and refrigerated overnight for added convenience. When you’re ready to cook, simply add all of the prepped vegetables and turkey to the slow cooker along with the broth and seasonings. For the dumplings, mix the dry ingredients and store them separately, then whisk in the wet ingredients right before cooking to ensure they remain fluffy. This way, you’ll still enjoy a warm, homemade bowl that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch that day!
Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to this cozy soup, enhancing flavors and textures to make it your own!
-
Vegetable Medley: Toss in additional veggies like peas or green beans for an extra nutritional boost and vibrant color.
-
Herbed Goodness: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique depth of flavor that transforms the soup.
-
Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier base that your family will love.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for those who crave a little heat in their bowl.
-
Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the self-rising flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
-
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace buttermilk with a plant-based milk and use a vegan butter alternative to make it dairy-free without compromising taste.
-
Cheesy Dumplings: Mix shredded cheese into the dumpling batter for a delightful cheesy surprise that melds beautifully with each bite.
-
Zesty Citrus: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the soup just before serving for a bright and refreshing finish that balances the flavors.
Expert Tips for Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables add vibrant flavors that frozen options can’t match. Try to choose organic where possible for the best taste.
-
Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking on LOW for 6 to 7 hours is key. Overcooking can make the turkey dry. Set a timer to avoid this mistake!
-
Dumpling Texture: Do not overmix your dumpling batter—stir just until combined. This will ensure your dumplings stay fluffy and soft when cooked.
-
Thickening It Up: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water. Just stir it in before adding the dumplings for consistency.
-
Leftover Storage: Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dumplings’ texture.
Storage Tips for Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: If you have extra soup, freeze it in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Ensure to leave space at the top, as liquid expands when frozen.
Reheating: To reheat from the fridge, slowly warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or microwave until steaming.
Texture Note: Dumplings may soften in the fridge, but they will still be delicious! Just be sure to reheat gently to maintain their tenderness.
What to Serve with Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup?
Pairing the right sides with this cozy soup creates a comforting, satisfying meal you’ll all cherish.
-
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every drop of the soup, this bread adds a delightful texture and complements the dish’s warmth.
-
Garden Salad: Fresh, crisp greens with a light vinaigrette balance the hearty soup, providing a refreshing contrast for your palate.
Imagine diving into the soup, then enjoying the crunch of fresh veggies in a salad—what a delightful combination!
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory broth, creating an indulgent experience.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges and natural sweetness enhance the flavors of the soup while adding a touch of elegance.
-
Sautéed Green Beans: Bright, tender green beans bring color and crunch, harmonizing perfectly with the heartiness of the turkey soup.
-
Hot Apple Cider: The warm spices in apple cider echo the comforting notes of the soup while adding a sweet and cozy touch to your meal.
Whichever side you choose, these pairings will ensure your slow-cooker feast feels whole and heartwarming!
Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! You can use any shredded cooked turkey, whether it’s from a store-bought rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey from a holiday feast. The only thing that matters is that it’s cooked beforehand—both options will add delicious flavor and heartiness to your soup.
How should I store leftovers of Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup?
Leftover soup should be cooled to room temperature, then transferred to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, making sure to stir occasionally so the dumplings don’t stick.
Can I freeze Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To do this, ladle the cooled soup into portion-sized containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. Once you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
What if my dumplings don’t rise as expected?
If your dumplings don’t rise, it could be due to overmixing the batter—this causes them to become dense. Remember, stir just until combined. Also, check that your self-rising flour is fresh; old flour can lose its leavening power.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be modified. For gluten-free options, substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend and adjust the baking powder accordingly. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet any specific allergy guidelines; for example, use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives if necessary.
How can I make this soup even heartier?
For an added boost of nutrition and texture, add a variety of seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale in the last hour of cooking. You could also include beans or potatoes for an even heartier feel. Just be mindful of the cooking time so the veggies don’t get too mushy—look for tender veggies without losing their vibrant colors!
Cozy Up with Slow-Cooker Turkey And Dumplings Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your 6-quart slow cooker, place the chicken broth, shredded turkey, chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Cover it up and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, until the turkey and vegetables are tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup water, cornstarch, and kosher salt. Stir this mixture into the turkey and veggie blend in the slow cooker. Cover and switch to HIGH heat, cooking for about 10 minutes until the mixture begins to simmer.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and black pepper. In a separate small bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg together. Mix the buttermilk blend into the flour mixture until just combined, then fold in the melted butter gently.
- Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of the batter into the simmering soup. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20 to 25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a wooden pick into the center of the dumplings—if it comes out clean, they are ready!
- Garnish the dish with chopped parsley before serving.