Lentil Sausage Soup Recipe

This Lentil Sausage Soup is a rich and comforting dish that combines ground sausage, lentils, and vegetables in a flavorful, savory broth. Packed with chicken broth, beef broth, tomato paste, and a variety of aromatic seasonings like basil, oregano, and mustard powder, this soup offers a satisfying meal that’s both filling and nutritious. Perfect for chilly days, this hearty sausage and lentil soup is also high in protein and fiber, making it an excellent option for meal prep or cozy weeknight dinners. With a savory depth from Worcestershire sauce and a kick from hot sauce, this hearty lentil soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Soup:

• 1 lb. ground sausage (hot or mild)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• ½ cup celery, diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 cup dry brown lentils, rinsed (see notes)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained

Instructions:

1. Cook the sausage: If using sausage links, remove the casings. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the sausage. Cook and crumble the sausage, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked. Once done, set the sausage aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the drippings. (If you don’t have drippings, substitute with butter.)
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the sausage drippings (or butter) over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots and cook for about 4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Create the base: Stir in the flour and tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the chicken and beef broth in splashes, using a silicone spatula to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Add lentils and seasonings: Add the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lentils, bay leaf, and seasonings. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover partially and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish the soup: After 45 minutes, add the cooked sausage and diced tomatoes to the pot. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes. If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more water or broth.
6. Serve: Once the soup is heated through and the flavors have melded, serve and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lentil Sausage Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal, combining the rich flavors of ground sausage, lentils, and vegetables in a savory broth. The beef broth adds depth, while the tomato paste and seasonings bring a comforting, flavorful kick. Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also filling and nutritious, making it the perfect dish for cooler days or as a make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

Tips

• Rinse lentils: Make sure to rinse the brown lentils before adding them to the soup to remove any dust or debris.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasonings to your liking. Adding extra hot sauce can give it a nice heat boost!
• Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for later.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sausage alternatives: If you prefer a different protein, you can swap the sausage with ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a lighter version.
• Different lentils: You can use other types of lentils like green lentils or red lentils. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly.
• Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added color and nutrients.
• Spice level: If you like a milder soup, reduce or omit the hot sauce and use a mild sausage.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of dry lentils?
It’s best to use dry lentils in this recipe, as canned lentils may become too mushy when simmered for so long.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils are tender.

How can I thicken the soup?
If the soup is too thin for your liking, you can mash some of the lentils with a spoon to thicken it naturally, or add a little more flour at the beginning when you sauté the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty Lentil Sausage Soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic bread for dipping. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would also pair nicely to add freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the soup. Enjoy with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra boost of flavor.