This hearty sausage and lentil soup is packed with flavor and warmth! Juicy sausage, tender lentils, and veggies come together in a cozy bowl perfect for chilly days.
I love how filling and easy this soup is to make. Just simmer everything together, and you’ve got dinner ready in no time. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the heart of the soup, adding rich flavor. You can go with mild or spicy based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage or plant-based sausage are great substitutes.
Lentils: I recommend using green or brown lentils for this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking. If unavailable, red lentils can work, but they will break down and make the soup thicker.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a nice depth, but vegetable broth works beautifully for a vegetarian version. You can also use low-sodium broth to control the salt level in the soup.
Spices: Dried thyme and smoked paprika add great flavor. If you’re out of thyme, Italian seasoning can be a good alternative. For a kick of heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes.
How Do You Saute Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables is a key step that enhances the soup’s flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use medium heat to cook the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. This helps them soften without burning.
- Keep it moving! Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Cook for about 5 minutes or until they’re just tender. Adding garlic and bell pepper later keeps their flavors fresh and vibrant.
Using these tips will help you build a rich foundation for your soup, making every bowl satisfying and delicious.
How to Make Sausage and Lentil Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep work and around 30-40 minutes for cooking. Overall, you can expect to bring this flavorful sausage and lentil soup to the table in about 50 minutes. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies until they’re softened, which should take about 5 minutes. This will create a tasty base for your soup!
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Cook this mixture for an additional 2 minutes until everything smells delicious and the garlic is fragrant. Keep stirring to ensure nothing burns!
3. Brown the Sausage:
Now it’s time to add the Italian sausage. Remove the casing from the sausage and crumble it directly into the pot. Cook the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks so it mixes well with the veggies.
4. Add Lentils and Liquids:
Then, stir in the rinsed lentils, chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (make sure to include the juice!), dried thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Bring this entire mixture to a boil; it will make your kitchen smell amazing.
5. Simmer Until Tender:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes. This will give the lentils time to soften and absorb all those wonderful flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
6. Final Seasoning:
After the lentils are tender, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you find the soup too thick for your liking, feel free to add extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf for safety and better eating! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve it warm and enjoy your hearty meal with family or friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, feel free to substitute with turkey sausage for a leaner option, or even a vegan sausage if you’re looking for a plant-based choice. Just adjust the cooking time as needed if you’re using a different type.
How Can I Modify the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder soup, you can use mild Italian sausage or omit any additional spices. If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage. Always taste as you go to find the right heat level for you!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup is perfect for make-ahead meals! It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just let it cool before transferring to airtight containers. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
What Should I Serve With This Soup?
This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, you can serve it alongside some garlic bread for dipping!
