As the chill of autumn wraps around your home, there’s nothing quite like the scent of a warm stew bubbling away on the stove. Enter my Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew, a delightful twist on those Thanksgiving leftovers that transforms ordinary turkey into a cozy, comforting dish. This recipe is not only a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken, but it also comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight dinner for busy families. With fluffy herbed dumplings floating in a rich, aromatic broth, it’s a satisfying meal that promises smiles around the dinner table. Ready to warm up your kitchen and your heart? Let’s dive in!

Why is this stew a winter favorite?

Comforting Warmth: This Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly evenings.
Easy to Make: With minimal prep and a fast cooking time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Deliciously Versatile: Easily adapt it by swapping turkey for rotisserie chicken or adding your favorite frozen vegetables for an extra boost.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of tender turkey, fresh herbs, and fluffy dumplings guarantees a satisfied family every time.
Wholesome Goodness: Packed with vegetables and high in protein, it’s a nutritious choice that warms both body and spirit. For delightful side options, try serving it with crusty bread or consider making a Dumpling Salad Zesty to accompany the meal!

Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew Ingredients

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into cozy comfort food with this flavorful stew!

For the Stew

Chicken Broth – Perfect base liquid for the stew; low-sodium options offer a healthier choice.
Roast Turkey Stock – Infuses depth of flavor; homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
Boiling Water – Essential for dissolving Better Than Bouillon chicken base.
Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base – Enhances the stew’s flavor without adding extra salt.
Onion, Chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
Baby Carrots, Sliced – Contributes natural sweetness and lovely texture.
Celery, Sliced – Provides a crunchy bite and fresh flavor to the mix.
Garlic, Minced – Adds a rich, aromatic depth that elevates the stew.
Coarse Ground Black Pepper – Use to taste for that perfect seasoning balance.
Fresh Thyme – Introduces herbal notes; dried thyme is an acceptable substitute.
Butter – Richness that rounds out the broth beautifully.
Leftover Roast Turkey – Your protein source; rotisserie chicken can easily be substituted.

For the Dumplings

Flour – The building block for dumplings, providing much-needed structure.
Baking Powder – Essential for creating fluffy dumplings that rise beautifully.
Sugar – Balances the flavors in the dumpling mixture.
Kosher Salt – A must-have for enhancing overall flavors.
Coarse Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning to the dumplings, adjust to preference.
Dried Parsley, Ground Rosemary, Poultry Seasoning, Onion Powder – A blend of spices for aromatic dumpling flavor.
Cold Butter – Keeps the dumplings tender and light when mixed in.
Cold Milk – Moistens the dumpling mixture for a delightful consistency.
Cornstarch – Thickens the stew; be sure to mix with cold milk before adding.
Regular Table Salt – Optional for final seasoning adjustments, to your taste.

This Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew is sure to bring warmth and smiles to your home! Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large stock pot, combine 6 cups of chicken broth, 2 cups of roast turkey stock, and 2 cups of boiling water mixed with 1 tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon chicken base. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, watching for bubbling to indicate it’s ready for the next ingredients. This savory base sets the stage for your flavorful Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Once the broth is boiling, add 1 chopped onion, 1 cup of sliced baby carrots, 1 cup of sliced celery, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of coarse ground black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender and aromatic. This step enriches the broth and infuses delightful flavors into your stew.

Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough
While the vegetables simmer, prepare the dumpling dough in a mixing bowl. Combine 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a teaspoon each of kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper. Cut in 1/4 cup of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then gently stir in 1 cup of cold milk. Be careful not to overmix, as this ensures fluffy dumplings.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Once the vegetables are tender, drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the boiling broth, ensuring they’re spaced apart for even cooking. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and reduce the heat to low, allowing the dumplings to simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid, as this keeps the steam in, resulting in perfectly fluffy dumplings that complement your Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew.

Step 5: Incorporate the Turkey and Thicken the Stew
After the dumplings have cooked, carefully fold in 2 cups of leftover roast turkey into the pot. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold milk until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew gently until the broth thickens, creating a luxurious texture that binds the ingredients together beautifully.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste your delicious stew and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding salt or pepper to your liking. Once satisfied with the flavors, serve the hot Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew in bowls, enjoying it with warm crusty bread if desired. This hearty meal is perfect for sharing and cozy gatherings as the chilly season sets in!

How to Store and Freeze Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew

Fridge: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the stew (without dumplings) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the stew is too thick. Enjoy your comforting Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew warm!

Dumplings: For the best texture, it’s ideal to prepare dumplings fresh. If freezing, place them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a bag after they’re frozen to prevent clumping.

Make Ahead Options

These Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the broth and add the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store the prepared broth (without dumplings) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bring the broth back to a boil, drop in fresh dumpling dough, and add the leftover turkey for a delightful finish. To maintain quality, avoid cooking the dumplings until just before serving for optimal fluffiness. With this prep, you’ll enjoy a cozy, homemade meal with minimal effort!

Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew Variations

Feel free to get creative with this stew, transforming it based on your taste buds and pantry staples!

Rotisserie Chicken: Swap out leftover turkey for rotisserie chicken to save time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner with that same cozy taste!
Vegetable Boost: Add frozen corn or peas for extra color and nutrition. They’ll brighten the stew and add a delightful texture.
Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for a seasonal flavor profile. Each herb brings a unique warmth to the dish!
Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk in the dumpling mix and olive oil instead of butter for a delicious dairy-free version. Your stew will still be comforting!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the broth for a zesty kick that will awaken your senses.
Grain Variation: Swap the dumpling flour for whole wheat flour or gluten-free alternatives for a healthier twist. This change won’t compromise that fluffy texture!
Rustic Add-ins: Toss in diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier stew. They’ll absorb flavor and create a satisfying dish the whole family will enjoy.
Curry Flavor: Make it adventurous by blending in curry powder to the broth, giving it an exotic flair. This offers a yummy fusion of comforting stew and exciting spices!

If you’re loving what you made, consider serving it alongside some Roasted Carrots Farro or even trying a warming Curry Dumpling Soup for a whole new experience!

What to Serve with Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew

There’s nothing quite like pairing your hearty stew with delightful sides that enhance the overall dining experience.

Crusty Bread: Slices of warm, crusty bread provide the perfect vehicle for dipping into the rich broth, making every bite satisfying.
Garden Salad: A light, refreshing garden salad brings a burst of color and crispness, balancing the warmth of the stew. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette for an extra flavor kick!
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a wonderful addition, adding extra comfort and making the meal heartily filling. Consider a hint of garlic for depth.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add texture and a hint of sweetness—great for rounding out your plate.
Sautéed Greens: Pair with sautéed spinach or kale, seasoned with garlic, offering a nutritious counterpart that complements the stew beautifully.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream ends the meal on a sweet note, harmonizing with the stew’s savory richness.

Let these suggestions inspire you as you enjoy your comforting Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew!

Helpful Tricks for Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew

Lid On: Do not lift the lid while cooking the dumplings. This ensures they steam properly, resulting in fluffy dumplings that elevate your stew.
Veggie Tenderness: Make sure your vegetables are tender before adding the dumplings. Undercooked veggies can lead to a mismatch in texture and flavor.
Cornstarch Mixing: Always mix cornstarch with cold milk before adding to the stew. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, thickened broth in your Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme for a burst of flavor. If unavailable, dried thyme is a good alternative but use half the amount.
Leftover Swap: Feel free to replace turkey with rotisserie chicken—it’s just as delicious and saves time!

Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best turkey for this stew?
Absolutely! When choosing turkey, opt for meat that is firm and evenly colored; avoid any with dark spots or an off-putting smell. If using leftovers, ensure they are fresh and within 3-4 days of cooking for the best flavor in your stew.

What are the best storage methods for leftover stew?
Make sure any leftover stew cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it—just leave out the dumplings as they don’t freeze well. This way, you can enjoy your delicious Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew any time!

Can I freeze Roast Turkey & Herbed Dumpling Stew?
Absolutely, but to maintain the best texture, freeze the stew without the dumplings. Pour the cooled stew into a freezer-safe container and it’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.

What if my dumplings don’t turn out fluffy?
If your dumplings are dense, the issue may be overmixing. For fluffy results, gently combine ingredients and avoid overworking the dough. Also, ensure you keep the lid on while they cook, as lifting can disrupt the steam needed for proper rising.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! If cooking for someone with allergies, ensure to specify ingredients like flour and any seasonings. For gluten-free options, you can substitute the dumpling flour with a gluten-free blend, adjusting the baking powder as needed. Always check for safe ingredients when preparing meals for pets too, as some components like onions are harmful!