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Hearty Turkey and Pearl Barley Soup: The Coziest Way to Use Leftovers

Hearty Turkey & Pearl Barley Soup

A warm and nourishing soup packed with tender shredded turkey, hearty pearl barley, and a colorful mix of vegetables simmered in a rich tomato-infused broth. Comforting, filling, and perfect for using leftover turkey from holidays or family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 14 minutes
Course Main Dish, Soup
Cuisine Comfort Food, Rustic
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups tomato puree or passata
  • ½ cup pearl barley
  • 2½ cups cooked turkey, shredded
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 ounces shaved parmesan cheese (for serving)
  • Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Sauté the Vegetables
    Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
  • Bloom the Spices
    Stir in oregano, paprika, thyme, and Italian seasoning. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add Broth and Barley
    Pour in chicken broth and tomato puree. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Stir in the pearl barley, then reduce heat to medium. Cover and simmer 45–65 minutes, or until barley is tender.
  • Add Turkey & Greens
    Uncover and stir in shredded turkey, spinach, and parsley. Cook 6–8 minutes until turkey is warmed through and spinach is wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Serve
    Ladle into bowls and top with shaved parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

Pro Tips & Variations

  • Swap the turkey: Rotisserie chicken works just as well.
  • Add depth: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.
  • Make it heartier: Add diced potatoes or extra barley.
  • Meal prep-friendly: Freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • Vegetarian version: Replace turkey with white beans and use vegetable broth.
Keyword barley soup, comfort food recipe, hearty winter soup, leftover turkey soup, tomato broth soup