This comforting and hearty Sausage and Lentil Soup combines flavorful Italian sausage with nutritious lentils and vegetables, simmered in a savory chicken broth. It’s the perfect meal for chilly days when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. With its combination of protein, fiber, and rich seasonings, this old-fashioned soup is a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add Lentils and Broth: Stir in the dried lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Variations
- Spicy Version: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the vegetables.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables or a plant-based sausage substitute for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add Greens: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
- Use Different Lentils: If you prefer, you can use green or brown lentils, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. You may need to add a little extra broth or water if the soup thickens too much while stored.
10 FAQs
- Can I use ground turkey instead of Italian sausage? Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. You may want to add additional seasoning to make up for the flavor of the sausage.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Do I need to pre-soak the lentils? No, there’s no need to soak lentils before cooking. They cook fairly quickly, making this a great soup for a weeknight meal.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- What if I don’t have Italian sausage? You can use any type of sausage you prefer or even ground beef or turkey. Just be sure to season the soup accordingly.
- Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute for chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly.
- How do I thicken the soup? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the lentils with a potato masher or blend a portion of the soup until smooth.
- Is this soup spicy? No, this soup is not spicy unless you add chili flakes or fresh peppers. It has a savory, mildly seasoned flavor.
- Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance the soup’s flavor and texture.
- What should I serve with this soup? This soup is great on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, a green salad, or a side of cheesy garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This homemade Sausage and Lentil Soup is an easy and nourishing meal that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you’re craving something comforting. The savory sausage, tender lentils, and mix of vegetables make for a filling dish that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or making it for a weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.