Irresistible Turkey Dinner Soup Dumplings Recipe Perfect for Fall

Picture this: tender dumplings bursting with the comforting flavors of a classic turkey dinner, all wrapped up in one perfect bite. These irresistible turkey dinner soup dumplings are exactly what you need to cozy up during fall. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use leftovers or just craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe has you covered. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

I first stumbled upon the idea of soup dumplings while experimenting with holiday leftovers. The result was a little pocket of joy that captured everything I love about Thanksgiving dinner — turkey, gravy, and a hint of spices — all in one neat, dumpling form. Since then, it’s become my go-to fall recipe. If you’re ready to create magic in your kitchen, let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Fall: These dumplings are like tiny comfort bombs, ideal for chilly autumn evenings.
• A Great Use for Leftovers: Transform leftover turkey and gravy into something totally new and exciting.
• Fun to Make: Folding dumplings is a hands-on activity that’s perfect for family cooking nights.
• Deliciously Unique: Combines the savory goodness of turkey dinner with the chewy delight of dumpling wrappers.
• Impressive: They’re a showstopper dish that’s surprisingly easy to make.

What makes these dumplings stand out is their ability to capture the essence of turkey dinner without being overly heavy. The dumpling wrapper adds just the right amount of chewiness, and the filling is rich, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting. Plus, they’re a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

These turkey dinner soup dumplings aren’t just food—they’re an experience. The moment you bite into one and the warm, savory filling bursts onto your palate, you’ll understand why they’ve become a fall favorite in my household.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to recreate the flavors of a hearty turkey dinner. You likely have most of these in your kitchen already, especially if you’ve just celebrated a holiday feast!

• Cooked turkey: Shredded or finely chopped (leftovers work perfectly).
• Turkey gravy: Homemade or store-bought, thickened for the soup filling.
• Carrots: Diced and cooked (adds sweetness and texture).
• Celery: Diced and cooked (for flavor and crunch).
• Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed (essential for depth).
• Fresh parsley: Chopped (for a pop of freshness).
• Dumpling wrappers: Store-bought or homemade (look for round wrappers for easier folding).
• Chicken broth: For steaming the dumplings.
• Soy sauce: Optional, for dipping.
• Salt & pepper: To taste.

If you’re missing an ingredient or have dietary restrictions, don’t worry! You can easily make substitutions. For example, use shredded chicken instead of turkey or swap celery for fennel for a fun twist. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability.

Equipment Needed

• Steamer basket: Essential for steaming the dumplings.
• Mixing bowls: For preparing the filling.
• Rolling pin: If making homemade dumpling wrappers.
• Skillet: For sautéing vegetables.
• Small spoon: Ideal for scooping the filling into the wrappers.

If you don’t have a steamer basket, you can use a metal colander placed over a pot of boiling water or even create a DIY steamer using a plate and foil. Just make sure the dumplings don’t touch the boiling water!

Preparation Method

1. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Allow to cool.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, sautéed vegetables, turkey gravy, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined. The filling should be thick but creamy.
3. Prepare your dumpling wrappers. If using store-bought wrappers, cover them with a damp cloth to keep them from drying out.
4. Place a wrapper in the palm of your hand and add a small spoonful of the turkey filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as it will make folding difficult.
5. Lightly dampen the edges of the wrapper with water using your fingertip. Fold the wrapper around the filling, pinching and pleating the edges to form a tight seal. Repeat until all the filling is used.
6. Prepare your steamer basket by lining it with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
7. Arrange the dumplings in the steamer basket, leaving a bit of space between each dumpling so they don’t touch.
8. Bring a pot of water to a boil and place the steamer basket over it. Cover and steam the dumplings for 10-12 minutes until the wrappers are translucent and the filling is heated through.
9. Serve the dumplings warm with a side of soy sauce for dipping, if desired.

Pro tip: If your filling feels too runny, add a tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs to thicken it. And for perfectly sealed dumplings, make sure the edges are moist before pinching them closed.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Creating the perfect turkey dinner soup dumplings doesn’t have to be intimidating! Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Keep the wrappers moist: Dry wrappers are hard to fold and seal, so always keep them covered with a damp cloth.
• Don’t overfill: Resist the temptation to add too much filling—it will make the dumplings harder to seal and prone to breaking.
• Seal tightly: Pinch the edges firmly to avoid any leaks during steaming.
• Use cold filling: Chilled filling is easier to handle and prevents the dumpling from becoming soggy.
• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between dumplings in the steamer to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Most importantly, have fun with it! Dumpling folding isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating something delicious and comforting for you and your loved ones.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are endless ways to customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the turkey with mashed sweet potatoes or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of gravy.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free dumpling wrappers and ensure your gravy is gluten-free.
• Seasonal Twist: Add a sprinkle of sage or nutmeg for an extra fall flavor, or swap parsley for thyme.
• Different Protein: Try shredded chicken, pork, or even tofu for a new spin on the dish.

Personally, I love adding a touch of cranberry sauce to the filling during the holiday season—it gives the dumplings a sweet and tangy twist that’s simply irresistible!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These dumplings are best enjoyed warm, right out of the steamer. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with a simple soy sauce dip or even a drizzle of warm gravy for extra comfort.

If you’re serving these as part of a meal, they pair beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables. For a more indulgent spread, add mashed potatoes or cornbread on the side.

To store leftovers, let the dumplings cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam them again for 5-7 minutes or microwave them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional benefits you’ll enjoy with these turkey dinner soup dumplings:

• Calories: Approximately 150-200 per dumpling, depending on size.
• Protein: Packed with lean protein from turkey.
• Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A from carrots and Vitamin K from parsley.
• Low Fat: The recipe uses lean turkey and avoids heavy oils.
• Dietary Considerations: Gluten-free and vegetarian adaptations are possible!

These dumplings are a great way to enjoy comfort food without feeling weighed down. Plus, they’re loaded with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your soul.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of creativity to your fall table, these irresistible turkey dinner soup dumplings are it. They’re easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and the ultimate comfort food—all wrapped up in one delicious bite.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab those dumpling wrappers, and get cooking. You’ve got a cozy, mouthwatering meal waiting for you. Happy steaming!

FAQs

Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and freeze the uncooked dumplings on a parchment-lined tray. When ready to cook, steam them directly from frozen for 12-15 minutes.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Shredded chicken works just as well and adds a slightly lighter flavor profile to the dumplings.

What’s the best way to thicken the filling?

If your filling is too runny, add a tablespoon of flour, breadcrumbs, or mashed potatoes to achieve the right consistency.

Can I fry these dumplings instead of steaming?

Yes, you can pan-fry them for a crispy bottom before steaming for a unique twist. This method is often called “potstickers.”

What dipping sauces pair well with these dumplings?

Soy sauce with a splash of vinegar is classic, but you can also try warm gravy or even cranberry sauce for a sweet-savory mix.

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