If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug from your favorite cozy blanket, look no further than this delightful Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe. Imagine tender, flavorful dumplings made from leftover stuffing swimming in a rich, savory broth filled with tender turkey and vibrant vegetables. It’s the perfect way to transform those familiar holiday flavors into a year-round comfort meal that satisfies both heart and belly. Whether you’re dealing with leftovers or just want to whip up something truly special, this soup is pure magic in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture in this soup. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fluffy dumplings to the cozy broth packed with veggies and turkey.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: The base for our dumplings, giving them structure and that tender bite.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten: They bind the dumpling mixture perfectly while adding richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs bring brightness and a pop of color to the dumplings.
- 2 cups leftover stuffing: The star ingredient that adds deep savory flavor and texture to the dumplings.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used to soften the vegetables, lending sweetness and silkiness to the soup base.
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced: These add beautiful color and subtle sweetness to balance the savory notes.
- 2 stalks celery, cut into chunks: Celery adds crunch and an aromatic depth that elevates the broth.
- 1 large onion, diced: Essential for a flavor foundation, caramelizing slightly for natural sweetness.
- 6 cups chicken stock (or turkey stock): This hearty liquid defines the rich, comforting soul of the soup.
- 2 cups shredded cooked turkey: Tender bits of turkey make the soup hearty and filling, perfect for any leftovers.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: For seasoning and bringing all flavors into harmonious balance.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: A fresh, vibrant finishing touch that brightens each serving.
How to Make Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dumplings
Start by combining the flour, eggs, and chopped parsley in a bowl. This mixture forms the base of your dumplings, delivering a tender yet slightly chewy bite. Then add the leftover stuffing, folding it in gently until everything is well combined. The stuffing adds an irresistible savory flavor and a wonderful texture throughout the dumpling, making these the heart of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Wet your spoon in hot water to prevent sticking, then gently drop large dollops of the dumpling mixture into the boiling water. These cook quickly and will float to the surface when ready. Carefully scoop them out with a slotted spoon and set aside while you prepare the soup base. This method keeps the dumplings tender and light.
Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion, seasoning with a pinch of kosher salt. Cook gently until the vegetables soften and begin to release their natural sweetness—this is where your soup really starts developing its depth of flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Pour in six cups of chicken or turkey stock and bring everything up to a boil again. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully into the broth.
Step 5: Add Turkey and Dumplings
Now it’s time to add the shredded turkey and those pillowy dumplings back into the pot. Stir gently to combine and let the soup simmer just long enough to heat everything through. The turkey adds a welcomed protein boost, while the dumplings soak up all those mouthwatering flavors.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finish by tasting and adjusting the seasoning with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Sprinkle fresh parsley over each bowl for a vibrant burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and watch how every comforting spoonful feels like a warm, delicious hug.
How to Serve Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic, easy garnish that adds a crisp, herbal finish, but feel free to sprinkle on a little shredded Parmesan or a few drops of good-quality olive oil for a subtle richness. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely kick if you enjoy a bit of heat with your comforting soup.
Side Dishes
This soup shines best alongside a crusty baguette or warm cornbread to mop up all the savory broth. A simple side salad with bitter greens or a light vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the soup without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or rustic bread bowls. If you want to impress guests, garnish each bowl with a sprig of thyme or rosemary alongside the parsley. For a family-friendly option, let everyone sprinkle their own cheese, herbs, or a drizzle of cream right at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe keeps very well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the soup in an airtight container, making sure the dumplings are covered with broth to keep them from drying out. The flavors meld even more after a day, so leftovers can be even tastier!
Freezing
If you want to freeze, it’s best to keep the broth and vegetables separate from the dumplings. Dumplings can become mushy after freezing and thawing, so store them in a separate container and add them fresh when reheating. Broth and veggies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add the dumplings after the soup is hot to avoid overcooking them. If the soup feels too thick, simply stir in a splash of stock or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I make dumplings without leftover stuffing?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with leftover stuffing, you can easily create dumplings using fresh bread crumbs mixed with herbs and seasonings to mimic that comforting flavor.
What if I don’t have turkey stock? Can I use chicken stock?
Chicken stock works wonderfully as a substitute and is often more readily available. Both bring lovely richness to the soup, so don’t stress if turkey stock isn’t on hand.
Can this soup be made vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the turkey stock for vegetable broth and leave out the turkey meat. Use mushroom-based stuffing for the dumplings to add a meaty flavor, and you’ll still have a hearty, delicious soup.
How do I get the dumplings to hold together without falling apart in the soup?
Cook the dumplings separately in boiling water first until they float, then add them to the soup. This technique helps them hold their shape instead of breaking down in the broth.
Can I use frozen turkey meat?
Definitely! Just be sure to thaw it completely and shred before adding to the soup to ensure even heating and the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe is a heartfelt way to transform humble leftovers into a cozy, soul-satisfying meal that shines anytime you’re craving something warm and special. It’s truly one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again, sharing that comfort with family and friends. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and dive into this irresistible bowl of goodness — your kitchen is about to smell like pure happiness.
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Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting Stuffing Dumpling Soup that transforms leftover stuffing into delicious dumplings, simmered in a flavorful turkey or chicken broth with tender vegetables and shredded turkey. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup combines hearty textures and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Dumplings
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cups leftover stuffing
Soup
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, diced
- 6 cups chicken stock (or turkey stock)
- 2 cups shredded cooked turkey
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Make Dumplings: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, lightly beaten eggs, and chopped fresh parsley. Add the leftover stuffing and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined into a cohesive mixture suitable for shaping into dumplings.
- Cook Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Dip a spoon into the hot water to prevent sticking, then use it to drop large dollops of the stuffing mixture into the boiling water. Cook the dumplings until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through. Carefully remove the dumplings with a slotted spoon and set aside for later use.
- Prepare the Soup Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery chunks, and diced onion. Season lightly with kosher salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Simmer Soup: Pour in the chicken or turkey stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Add Turkey and Dumplings: Stir in the shredded cooked turkey and gently add the cooked stuffing dumplings to the pot. Continue simmering just until the turkey and dumplings are heated through, about 5 additional minutes, ensuring the dumplings remain intact.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot to enjoy a warming meal perfect for any chilly day.
Notes
- Use leftover stuffing to add extra flavor and texture to the dumplings, avoiding waste.
- Be gentle when dropping and stirring the dumplings to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Cooking the dumplings in boiling water before adding them to the soup ensures they hold their shape and cook evenly.
- Chicken stock can be substituted with turkey stock for deeper flavor if available.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute stuffing and turkey with vegetable-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid breaking the dumplings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
