Lentil Sausage Soup

There’s nothing more comforting than a big pot of soup simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with rich, savory aromas. This Lentil Sausage Soup is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. Made with Italian sausage, tender lentils, and a deeply flavorful broth, it’s hearty enough for cold nights, relaxed weekends, or make-ahead family dinners. Whether you serve it straight from the stovetop or let it slowly cook in the Crock Pot, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, savory flavor from Italian sausage and herbs
• Hearty and filling thanks to protein-rich lentils
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Stove top and slow cooker friendly
• Easy to customize with greens like kale or spinach

Ingredients

Seasonings

• Dried basil (1 tsp): Adds subtle sweetness and herbaceous depth
• Dried parsley (½ tsp): Brightens the flavor
• Oregano (½ tsp): Classic savory note
• Mustard powder (½ tsp): Enhances overall flavor without standing out
• Black pepper (¼ tsp): Gentle warmth

Soup Base

• Ground Italian sausage (1 lb): Hot or mild, the heart of the soup
• Yellow onion (1 small): Builds a savory base
• Carrots (1 cup, diced): Natural sweetness and color
• Celery (½ cup, diced): Classic soup aroma and balance
• Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Boosts flavor
• Flour (2 tbsp): Slightly thickens the broth
• Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Deepens flavor and color
• Chicken broth (6 cups): Main liquid base
• Beef broth (2 cups): Adds richness and depth
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Savory umami enhancer
• Hot sauce (1 tsp): Flavor booster without heat
• Dry brown lentils (1 cup, rinsed): Hearty texture and protein
• Bay leaf (1): Adds subtle aromatic flavor
• Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, drained): Bright acidity to balance richness

How to Make Lentil Sausage Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Remove casings if using sausage links. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the sausage. Cook, crumbling as it browns. Once halfway cooked, partially cover and continue cooking until fully done, about 10–12 minutes total. Transfer sausage to a paper towel-lined plate and reserve 1 tablespoon of drippings.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add reserved drippings and butter to the pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

Add flour and tomato paste, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly add chicken and beef broth in splashes, scraping the bottom of the pot to release all the flavorful bits.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Add Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lentils, bay leaf, and all seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Partially cover and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the cooked sausage to the pot along with the diced tomatoes. Simmer for another 10 minutes. Add extra broth or water if a thinner consistency is desired. Remove bay leaf and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Rinse lentils well to remove excess starch
• Simmer gently to avoid breaking down lentils
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end
• Use low-sodium broth if your sausage is salty

Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

• Add Greens: Stir in chopped kale during the last 5 minutes or spinach during the last 3 minutes
• Lighter Version: Use ground turkey instead of sausage
• Brothier Soup: Reduce sausage to ½–¾ lb
• Extra Heat: Use hot Italian sausage and extra hot sauce

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty bread or garlic bread
• Simple green salad
• Grated Parmesan cheese on top
• Side of roasted vegetables

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze Lentil Sausage Soup?
Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Can I use green lentils instead of brown?
Yes, but green lentils take longer to cook due to their tougher skin.

Can I use red or canned lentils?
No, they break down too quickly and change the soup’s texture.

Does the hot sauce make it spicy?
No, it enhances flavor without adding noticeable heat.

Crock Pot Method

Brown the sausage in a skillet and set aside. Melt butter in the Crock Pot and add onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and tomato paste. Toss to coat. Add cooked sausage, lentils, seasonings, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, diced tomatoes, and both broths. Cover and cook on high for 4–5 hours or low for 7–8 hours, until lentils are tender.

Final Thoughts

This Lentil Sausage Soup is rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying—a true one-pot meal that brings comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or warming up on a chilly evening, this recipe delivers big flavor and cozy vibes every time. Give it a try and make it a staple in your soup rotation.

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