Sausage and lentil soup is a delicious, hearty, and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. This flavorful soup is a comfort food favorite loaded with savory sausage, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is a must-try recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Lentil Soup
A Perfect Balance of Flavor and Nutrition
- Savory & Hearty: The combination of Italian sausage, tender lentils, and rich broth creates a deeply satisfying taste.
- Nutritious & Filling: Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this soup both healthy and filling.
- Easy to Make: This one-pot recipe requires minimal effort but delivers big flavors.
Health Benefits of Lentils
Lentils are considered a superfood because they are:
▪️ High in fiber (great for digestion)
▪️ Rich in plant-based protein
▪️ A good source of iron and folate
▪️ Low in fat but super satisfying
Ingredients for Sausage and Lentil Soup
Main Ingredients
- Italian sausage – Adds a rich, savory taste
- Lentils – Brown or green lentils work best
- Onion & garlic – Essential aromatics for depth of flavor
- Carrots & celery – Classic soup vegetables for texture
- Tomatoes (canned or fresh) – Adds acidity and depth
- Chicken or vegetable broth – Forms the base of the soup
Best Spices for Lentil Soup
Wondering what spices are good in lentil soup? Here are the best choices:
▪️ Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor
▪️ Smoked paprika – Enhances the smokiness
▪️ Thyme & oregano – Perfect for an Italian touch
▪️ Bay leaves – Adds a subtle background aroma
▪️ Crushed red pepper (optional) – For a slight heat kick
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sausage and Lentil Soup
1. Cook the Sausage
- Heat a large pot over medium heat.
- Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Remove excess grease if needed.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery.
- Cook for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Add Lentils and Broth
- Stir in rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, and spices.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
4. Simmer Until Lentils Are Tender
- Cover and cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or extra spices.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or parmesan cheese.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Sausage and Lentil Soup
Do You Need to Cook Lentils Before Adding to Soup?
No, you don’t need to cook lentils separately! They soften perfectly in the broth while absorbing all the delicious flavors of sausage and lentil soup.
What Happens If You Don’t Rinse Lentils Before Cooking?
Skipping this step might leave dust or debris in the soup, making it slightly gritty or cloudy. Always rinse lentils before cooking for the best texture and taste.
Best Sausage for This Soup
- Mild or spicy Italian sausage – Adds a rich, classic taste
- Chicken sausage – A leaner, healthier option
- Chorizo – Gives the soup a smoky, spicy twist
These simple tips ensure your sausage and lentil soup turns out perfect every time!
What to Serve with Sausage and Lentil Soup?
Best Side Dishes for Sausage and Lentil Soup
Pairing the right side dish with sausage and lentil soup enhances the meal’s flavors and makes it even more satisfying. Here are some delicious options:
- Crusty Bread or Baguette – Perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth.
- Garlic Bread – Adds a buttery, garlicky touch to complement the soup.
- Simple Green Salad – A light, fresh contrast to the hearty soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A comforting combination of crispy bread and melted cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables – Adds extra nutrition and texture to your meal.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Looking for the perfect drink to enjoy with your sausage and lentil soup? Try these:
- Red Wine – A medium-bodied red, like Chianti or Merlot, pairs well with the sausage’s richness.
- White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio balances the soup’s earthy flavors.
- Herbal Tea – Chamomile or mint tea complements the soup’s warmth.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon – A refreshing, light option.
These pairings will turn your sausage and lentil soup into a complete, satisfying meal!
How to Store and Reheat Sausage and Lentil Soup
Storing Leftover Soup
Proper storage keeps your sausage and lentil soup fresh and delicious for days. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It stays fresh for 4–5 days.
- Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space in the container to allow for expansion.
Best Way to Reheat Sausage and Lentil Soup
To maintain the soup’s rich flavors and texture, reheat it properly:
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated evenly.
- From Frozen: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave as above.
Does Sausage and Lentil Soup Taste Better the Next Day?
Yes! The flavors deepen as they sit, making the soup even more flavorful the next day. Store it properly, and enjoy an even tastier bowl later!
Discover great ideas like Mini Chicken Pot Pies
FAQs :
1. What goes with sausage and lentil soup?
Sausage and lentil soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich or roasted vegetables. A glass of red or white wine also complements the flavors perfectly.
2. What is in Carrabba’s lentil and sausage soup?
Carrabba’s version of sausage and lentil soup includes Italian sausage, lentils, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and a blend of Italian herbs. It has a rich, savory flavor with a slight spice from the sausage.
3. Is lentil soup a healthy option?
Yes! Lentil soup is highly nutritious, packed with fiber, protein, iron, and essential vitamins. It’s a great option for a balanced meal, and using lean sausage or chicken sausage can make it even healthier.
4. Do I have to cook lentils before adding to soup?
No, lentils do not need to be cooked beforehand. They soften in the broth while absorbing the flavors of the sausage and seasonings. This makes the soup even more delicious and saves cooking time.
5. What happens if you don’t rinse lentils before cooking?
Skipping this step may leave dust, debris, or excess starch in the soup, which can make it gritty or cloudy. Always rinse lentils under cold water before cooking for the best results.
6. What spices are good in lentil soup?
The best spices for sausage and lentil soup include cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes. These add warmth, depth, and a slight smoky kick to enhance the flavor.
Conclusion:
Sausage and lentil soup is the perfect combination of hearty, nutritious, and flavorful ingredients that make for a satisfying meal any time of the year. With savory Italian sausage, protein-rich lentils, and aromatic spices, this soup is both comforting and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
One of the best things about this sausage and lentil soup is its versatility. You can customize it by using different types of sausage, adjusting the spices to your preference, or even adding extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for a more nutrient-packed meal. Plus, the spices like cumin, paprika, and thyme bring out deep, rich flavors that taste even better the next day.
Storing and reheating this soup is simple, making it a great option for leftovers. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious taste or texture. Reheating is just as easy—whether on the stovetop or in the microwave, a quick warm-up brings back all the comforting flavors.
Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s both budget-friendly and filling. Try this sausage and lentil soup recipe, and enjoy a warm, cozy bowl of homemade goodness today!