Name: Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled; 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; Spinach or kale, chopped (about 1 cup)

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If you are searching for a cozy and nourishing meal to warm you up on any day, this Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe hits every mark. Hearty and comforting, it combines the earthy richness of lentils with the savory, bold flavors of Italian sausage in one satisfying pot. Every spoonful offers a perfect blend of textures and tastes that feels like a warm hug from the inside, making it a fantastic choice whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping for a busy week ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white tray holds nine clear glass bowls filled with various ingredients arranged closely together. In the top row, there are diced white onions with a clean texture on the right, and chunks of bright red tomatoes in a sauce with a shiny surface on the left. Below, bowls of small diced bright orange carrots and pale green chopped celery sit side by side, with dried green herbs in a small bowl above the celery. To the left, a bowl with finely chopped pale garlic and a larger bowl with chopped brown mushrooms with white insides add earthy colors. In the center is a small bowl filled with red pepper flakes, deep red and textured. The bottom row features a bowl of round brown lentils with bay leaves on top to the left, next to a bowl of dark green dried herbs, and finally a bowl of raw meat balls showing a mix of pink and white shades with a rough texture to the right. The tray is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the aromatic vegetables to the protein-packed lentils and sausage, every element brings its own unique flavor and texture that come together beautifully to create a well-rounded dish.

1 tbsp olive oil: The perfect base to sauté your veggies and sausage, adding a subtle fruity richness.
1 onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory foundation that enhances the soup’s depth.
2 carrots, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a pleasant bite to balance the heartiness.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that livens up every spoonful.
1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled: Offers savory, spiced protein that makes the soup truly satisfying.
1 cup brown lentils, rinsed: The star ingredient delivering fiber, protein, and a lovely earthy flavor.
6 cups chicken broth: The soup’s flavorful liquid medium, creating a rich and comforting base.
1 tsp thyme: A subtle herb that brightens the broth without overpowering it.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning that lifts and balances all the flavors.
Optional: spinach or kale, chopped: Adds vibrant color and nutritious greens for extra health benefits.

How to Make Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté Vegetables

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they become soft and fragrant—about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the flavor base that will infuse the entire soup with a lovely warmth and sweetness.

Step 2: Cook the Italian Sausage

Next, add the crumbled Italian sausage to your pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned all over. This browning not only brings out the sausage’s rich, savory flavors but also renders some fat that will meld beautifully into the broth.

Step 3: Combine Lentils, Broth, and Seasonings

Once the sausage is perfectly browned, mix in the rinsed brown lentils, chicken broth, dried thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the flavors. The lentils will soak up the seasonings and broth as they cook, becoming tender and delicious.

Step 4: Simmer Until Lentils Are Tender

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the lentils have softened without losing their shape, and the broth is filled with a rich, hearty taste.

Step 5: Stir in Greens and Finish Cooking

For an added burst of nutrition and color, stir in your chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt beautifully and blend into the soup, enhancing its texture and giving it that inviting, wholesome look.

How to Serve Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with thick, orange-brown soup containing visible pieces of green beans, small chunks of cooked meat, lentils, and leafy greens scattered throughout. The soup looks hearty with a slightly glossy surface, and a silver spoon is partially submerged on the right side of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Bring out the best in this Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe by topping each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little grated Parmesan cheese. A swirl of extra virgin olive oil or a dash of red pepper flakes can add exciting depth and a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. If you want to keep things hearty, roasted root vegetables or garlic bread are fantastic companions to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup inside hollowed-out bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation. Alternatively, ladle it over cooked grains like quinoa or barley in bowls for a deconstructed, hearty stew experience. These ideas make your meal feel extra special whether served casually or for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal that tastes even better.

Freezing

This Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe freezes like a dream. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags and store for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space for expansion, and avoid freezing with the greens; add fresh when reheating.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy your frozen or refrigerated soup, reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly, and add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency. Add fresh chopped greens toward the end to revive the vibrant texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of sausage in this soup?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage gives a lovely spiced flavor, you can substitute with chorizo, chicken sausage, or even a mild breakfast sausage depending on your taste preferences. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.

Are brown lentils the only type that works here?

Brown lentils are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking, but you can use green lentils too. Red lentils will cook much faster and tend to break down, making the soup thicker and more pureed-like.

Is this soup suitable for freezing with the greens included?

It’s best to add fresh spinach or kale when reheating after freezing to maintain their vibrant color and texture. Freezing greens can cause them to wilt excessively and lose freshness.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added protein and flavor, try sautéing mushrooms or adding smoked paprika to replace the savory notes of sausage.

How can I thicken the soup if I prefer a heartier consistency?

To thicken, mash some of the cooked lentils against the pot’s side with your spoon or use an immersion blender for a few quick pulses. Alternatively, a small slurry of flour and water stirred in while simmering can add body.

Final Thoughts

This Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because it offers the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and nutrition all in one pot. I encourage you to try it out and tweak it your way—it’s hearty comfort food that’s just waiting to be part of your regular rotation. Once you experience its cozy embrace, I’m sure it will become a beloved dish in your home too!