Italian Sausage Lentil Soup
A hearty Italian sausage and lentil soup packed with flavorful vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a comforting meal, this dish combines the richness of sausage with the earthiness of lentils and aromatic seasonings, making it ideal for chilly days or satisfying weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the lentils and broth in a large kettle.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Add diced potatoes, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery.
- Simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
- Add sliced Italian sausage to the soup.
- Cover and heat for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Season with salt, parsley, a pinch of thyme, a pinch of basil, and a bay leaf during the last 10 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. If you need a vegetarian option, substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and add more vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, especially if you're using a flavored broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian Sausage Lentil Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top, enhancing the flavors. This soup is also excellent with a drizzle of olive oil or a dash of red pepper flakes for added heat. Consider pairing it with a light white wine for an elevated dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Sausage Lentil Soup contains roughly 1580 calories, with 42g protein, 212g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (154% of the Daily Value), protein (84% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1864mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. If using canned, add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through. Reduce the broth slightly to account for the liquid in the canned lentils.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage instead of mild. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).