If you’ve been searching for the perfect way to cozy up on a chilly day, I have just the thing: the Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe. This comforting bowl brings together tender turkey, hearty vegetables, and buttery egg noodles all infused with rich, savory broth — all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. It’s a soul-hugging classic with a modern twist that promises both convenience and incredible flavor in less time than you think.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a special role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your soup. From the sweetness of carrots to the earthiness of mushrooms, every component breathes life into this warming dish.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness while adding a lovely richness that coats the vegetables.
- Carrots (2 large, peeled and sliced): These add subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the broth.
- Celery (2 ribs, sliced): Brings freshness and a crisp mouthfeel to balance the softness of other ingredients.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Lends a foundational flavor that deepens during sautéing.
- Button mushrooms (1 cup, sliced): Add umami depth and a tender bite to the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses a wonderful aroma and subtle pungency.
- Fresh sage (1 teaspoon, minced): Gives a warm, herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with turkey.
- Chicken stock (4 cups): Forms the savory and rich base of your soup.
- Shredded cooked turkey (2 cups): The star protein that makes this a hearty, filling meal.
- Dry egg noodles (2 cups): Cook right in the pot and soak up all those amazing flavors.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the tastes without overpowering them.
- Ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just a hint of spice and warmth.
- Dried bay leaf (1): Infuses a background layer of aromatic complexity.
How to Make Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating your Instant Pot using the Sauté setting, then add the butter until it melts and begins to gently bubble. Toss in your carrots, celery, onion, and mushrooms, stirring well so every piece gets lightly coated with butter. This step is key to unlocking natural sweetness and depth of flavor, so let the veggies cook, stirring occasionally, for about five minutes until they become tender and start to brown slightly.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Sage
Next, stir in the minced garlic and fresh sage. Let these aromatics cook for just about a minute to release their vibrant scents without burning. This little touch is what truly elevates the soup, bringing warmth and a subtle earthiness that complements the turkey beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the chicken stock, then add the shredded turkey and dry egg noodles. Sprinkle in kosher salt, ground black pepper, and toss in the bay leaf before giving everything a good stir to combine. At this point, your Instant Pot is loaded with layers of flavor ready to meld together.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Set the pressure cook mode to manual for 3 minutes. This short but powerful cooking burst is perfect for cooking noodles and warming the turkey through without overcooking anything. Once the timer goes off, carefully switch the valve to venting to release the pressure manually. Watch out for the steam as it escapes quickly!
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and give the soup a taste. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference, then ladle into bowls while it’s still steaming hot. This moment is pure magic—each spoonful delivers cozy comfort wrapped in rich, savory goodness.
How to Serve Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a simple way to add a personal touch and extra flavor dimension. Try sprinkling some chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves on top for a fresh pop of green and herbaceous lift. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the broth beautifully, or a few grinds of black pepper will add just the right kick.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crisp, crusty bread or buttery crackers that help soak up every last drop. A light spinach salad or roasted vegetable side can round out the meal without overshadowing your star dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in rustic bowls garnished with a sprig of fresh sage or a swirl of rich cream. Layered in a clear glass mug, it makes a stunning presentation perfect for a casual lunch or comforting snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The noodles will soak up some broth, so it’s best to enjoy it fairly soon for optimal texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup but I recommend omitting the noodles if you plan to freeze it, then adding freshly cooked noodles when reheating. Freeze in airtight containers for up to three months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen noodles were left out, add your freshly cooked noodles and adjust seasoning to revive that just-made flavor.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey from a holiday meal?
Absolutely! This recipe is a wonderful way to transform turkey leftovers into something comforting and delicious. Just shred your cooked turkey and use it as directed.
What if I don’t have chicken stock on hand?
Homemade or store-bought chicken broth works well too. Vegetable broth can be used if you want a lighter or vegetarian-friendly twist, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can make the soup using a large pot on the stove, sautéing the vegetables first, then simmering with the broth until the noodles are tender and the soup flavors meld. It takes a bit longer but still delicious.
What kind of egg noodles should I use?
Dry egg noodles are perfect here since they cook directly in the soup. You can also use fresh egg noodles, but reduce cooking time accordingly to avoid mushiness.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. Its make-ahead and reheating friendliness makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknight dinners or lunches throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of homemade soup, and the Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe nails it every single time. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and feeds your soul with ease and speed. So gather your ingredients, fire up that Instant Pot, and treat yourself to this cozy, tasty classic that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
