If you are a fan of cozy, comforting meals that feel like a warm hug, this Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It takes that classic holiday stuffing you love and transforms it into pillowy dumplings that swim in a flavorful, hearty turkey and vegetable broth. Each spoonful is a beautiful balance of textures and rich savory notes, making it perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a soul-soothing bowl of soup. Trust me, this recipe is a delightful way to reinvent leftovers or simply enjoy a unique twist on traditional comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but vital for crafting the perfect Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe. Each one plays a specific role, from building the dumplings’ texture to layering the soup with vibrant flavors and colors.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: The base for your dumplings that gives them structure and tenderness.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder to hold the dumpling mixture together.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness right into the dumplings.
- 2 cups leftover stuffing: The star ingredient that brings flavor, moisture, and seasoning to the dumplings.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: For sautéing vegetables and enriching the soup’s base.
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced: Provide sweetness and color to brighten the broth.
- 2 stalks celery, cut into chunks: Adds a subtle earthiness and crunch to the soup.
- 1 large onion, diced: Gives depth and natural sweetness to the flavor profile.
- 6 cups chicken stock (or turkey stock): The flavorful liquid that brings everything together in a cozy pot.
- 2 cups shredded cooked turkey: Tender protein that makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: A final pop of color and freshness on top.
How to Make Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dumpling Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, lightly beaten eggs, and chopped fresh parsley. Then fold in your leftover stuffing until everything is combined into a cohesive mixture. This step brings the dumplings to life by transforming simple ingredients into soft, flavorful morsels that will be cooked separately before joining the soup.
Step 2: Cook the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Using a spoon dipped in hot water (to prevent sticking), drop large dollops of the stuffing dumpling mixture into the boiling water. Cook them gently until they float to the surface—this usually takes a few minutes. Once they rise, scoop them out carefully with a slotted spoon and set them aside to join the soup later. The dumplings get perfectly tender and pillowy this way!
Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in the diced carrots, celery chunks, and onion, seasoning lightly with kosher salt. Sauté the vegetables until they soften and release their fragrant, sweet aromas — about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is all about building the foundation for that delicious broth.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Pour the chicken or turkey stock into the pot with the softened vegetables and bring it all to a boil. Reduce the heat so the soup simmers gently for 30 to 40 minutes. This simmer allows the flavors to mingle beautifully and the vegetables to reach that perfect tender bite without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Add Turkey and Dumplings
Stir in the shredded cooked turkey and the dumplings you cooked earlier. Let the soup simmer until the turkey is warmed through and the dumplings soak up some of the broth, about 5 to 10 minutes. This step brings everything together into one marvelous bowl of comforting goodness.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste your soup and season with fresh cracked black pepper and additional salt if needed. Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish generously with fresh parsley for an inviting burst of color and herby freshness. Time to dive in and enjoy those hearty bites!
How to Serve Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a must to add a vibrant green contrast that brightens each spoonful. For an extra special touch, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can elevate the flavors beautifully. Some people love adding a pinch of grated Parmesan for richness.
Side Dishes
This soup is substantial enough to be a meal on its own, but if you want to round out your table, crusty artisan bread or a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette pairs wonderfully. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a warm apple chutney can also complement the savory notes delightfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe in rustic bowls to enhance that cozy, homemade vibe. For a fun twist, turn the soup into a stew by adding extra vegetables like diced potatoes or green beans, creating a heartier dish perfect for guests. Or try a bread bowl for a charming presentation that doubles as edible serveware!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store leftover Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your second helping even more delicious.
Freezing
While the soup can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the broth and vegetables separately from the dumplings if possible to maintain their texture. If freezing everything together, expect the dumplings to soften somewhat after thawing. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags and enjoy within 2 months.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water. Avoid reheating in the microwave to preserve the dumpling’s texture.
FAQs
Can I make dumplings without leftover stuffing?
Absolutely! While leftover stuffing adds extra flavor, you can make dumplings with fresh breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasoning mixed with the flour and eggs. Just keep in mind your dumplings may taste a bit different but still delicious.
What if I don’t have turkey stock?
Chicken stock works perfectly as a substitute and is what I often use. Vegetable broth is another option, though the soup will be lighter in flavor. Homemade or good-quality store-bought stocks provide the best taste.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the turkey and use vegetable broth, then replace the dumplings’ stuffing with a vegetarian-friendly mixture. Roasted mushrooms or hearty beans can add depth and protein to keep it filling.
How do I prevent dumplings from sticking together while cooking?
Dipping your spoon in hot water before scooping the dumplings helps prevent sticking. Also, gently drop dumplings into boiling water without crowding the pot. Stir gently if needed to separate them as they cook.
Is it okay to prepare this soup entirely ahead of time?
You can prepare the dumpling mixture and soup base separately in advance, but it’s best to cook the dumplings fresh before adding to the soup to keep their texture perfect. The assembled soup can be reheated just before serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe. It takes humble leftover stuffing and turns it into an unforgettable comfort food experience that’s as satisfying as it is cozy. Whether you’re looking to revive holiday leftovers or simply crave a delicious bowl of homemade soup, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and your belly. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a cherished classic in your kitchen.
Print
Stuffing Dumpling Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Stuffing Dumpling Soup combines flavorful leftover stuffing turned into tender dumplings with a hearty turkey and vegetable broth. Perfect for warming up on chilly days, this recipe transforms holiday leftovers into a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and delicious.
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 bowl, combine the flour, lightly beaten eggs, and chopped fresh parsley. Add the leftover stuffing and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, forming a sticky dough mixture.
- Cook Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Dip a spoon into the hot water to prevent sticking, then drop large spoonfuls of the stuffing dumpling mixture into the boiling water. Cook the dumplings until they float to the surface, which indicates they are cooked through. Remove them gently with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Make Soup Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add diced carrots, celery chunks, and chopped onion. Season lightly with salt to enhance flavors and cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly softened and fragrant.
- Simmer Soup: Pour in the chicken or turkey stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer 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 the cooked dumplings into the simmering soup. Continue to simmer just until everything is heated through evenly.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper as desired. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot to add a burst of bright color and flavor.
Notes
- Using leftover stuffing adds a rich, savory depth to the dumplings, but you can make fresh stuffing if you prefer.
- To speed up the dumpling cooking process, ensure they are dropped gently into boiling water and cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Turkey stock adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but chicken stock is a perfect substitute if unavailable.
- This soup can be made vegetarian by omitting the turkey and using vegetable stock, and substituting stuffing accordingly.
- For a gluten-free variation, use gluten-free flour and stuffing made with gluten-free bread.
- Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and makes excellent leftovers.
