Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sausage and Lentil Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines smoky sausage with earthy lentils and savory vegetables for a well-balanced, protein-packed meal. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a satisfying bowl of nourishment, this one-pot recipe is easy to make and bursting with flavor. The lentils provide fiber and texture, while the sausage adds richness and spice.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
onion
carrots
celery
garlic
smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or Italian sausage)
brown or green lentils
diced tomatoes (canned)
tomato paste
chicken or vegetable broth
bay leaf
thyme
salt
black pepper
spinach or kale (optional)
fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Slice the sausage and add to the pot. Cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

Add tomato paste and stir to coat the ingredients.

Pour in the diced tomatoes, lentils, broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 30-35 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

If using, add chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use spicy sausage for added heat.
Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
Swap spinach for Swiss chard or omit greens altogether.
Use red lentils for a softer texture, though they cook faster.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

What type of lentils work best?

Brown or green lentils hold their shape well and are ideal for soups.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth for a meatless version.

Do I need to soak the lentils?

No soaking is needed for brown or green lentils, but rinse them before using.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, just brown it slightly for flavor before adding the rest of the ingredients.

How do I thicken the soup?

Simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid or mash some of the lentils for a thicker texture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the vegetables and sausage first, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Conclusion

Sausage and Lentil Soup is a wholesome, flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients for a satisfying, warming meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this versatile soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.