Lentil Sausage Soup: 5 Hearty Steps to Comforting Bliss

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of lentil sausage soup, especially on those chilly days when all you want is to wrap your hands around something comforting. This soup is a hug in a bowl, bursting with hearty flavors from the ground beef sausage, fresh vegetables, and a perfect blend of spices. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s simmering is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! Trust me, every bite is a delightful mix of savory and satisfying. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it instantly became a family favorite. The lentils add a wonderful texture and a boost of nutrition, making it a meal you can feel good about. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table or curling up on the couch, this lentil sausage soup is sure to warm both your body and soul.

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious lentil sausage soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb. ground beef sausage (hot or mild, depending on your spice preference)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced (for that sweet, aromatic base)
• 1 cup carrots, diced (adds a lovely color and natural sweetness)
• ½ cup celery, diced (for crunch and flavor depth)
• 2 tablespoons butter (to sauté the veggies and enhance the richness)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
• 2 tablespoons flour (to help thicken the soup)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for a deep, savory flavor)
• 6 cups chicken broth (a flavorful base; feel free to use low-sodium if you prefer)
• 2 cups beef broth (for added richness and depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for umami goodness)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, but it adds a nice kick)
• 1 cup dry brown lentils, rinsed (the star ingredient, packed with protein)
• 1 bay leaf (for that subtle aromatic touch)
• 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes, drained (to add some juicy texture)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (for a hint of herbaceous flavor)
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (to brighten things up)
• ½ teaspoon oregano (for that classic Italian note)
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder (adds a unique depth)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready before you start cooking, as it’ll keep the process flowing smoothly and make your kitchen smell utterly divine!

How to Prepare Lentil Sausage Soup

Getting ready to make this lentil sausage soup is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal in no time. I promise, it’s easier than it looks!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Sausage

First, grab your trusty large pot and heat it over medium heat. Add the 1 lb. ground beef sausage to the pot. You’ll want to cook and crumble it for about 10 to 12 minutes until it’s fully cooked through and browned. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks so that you have nice, small pieces. Once it’s done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve about 1 tablespoon of the drippings; you’ll need that flavor later!

Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the drippings back in along with 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and get all bubbly. Now toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery and sauté them for about 4 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and the veggies to soften just a bit. At this point, add in the 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!

Building the Soup Base

Next up, stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously to combine. This step is crucial as it builds a rich base for your soup! Gradually pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to get all those delicious bits. This will help infuse the broth with even more flavor.

Adding Lentils and Seasonings

Now it’s time for the star of the show: the lentils! Add 1 cup of dry brown lentils, 1 bay leaf, and all your seasonings (don’t forget that 1 teaspoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of hot sauce if you’re feeling spicy!). Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, partially covered, for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep everything moving and ensure those lentils cook evenly!

Final Steps

After the lentils have softened, return the cooked sausage to the pot along with 1 can of drained diced tomatoes. Let everything simmer together for another 10 minutes to meld those flavors beautifully. If the soup seems too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency. Now you’re ready to serve up this comforting bowl of lentil sausage soup! Enjoy every hearty bite!

Tips for Success

To ensure your lentil sausage soup turns out absolutely delicious, here are some handy tips that’ll make the process even smoother:

• Don’t skip rinsing the lentils: Rinsing them before adding to the soup helps remove any debris and ensures a cleaner flavor.
• Adjust the spice level: If you love a kick, feel free to add more hot sauce or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat!
• Use fresh herbs: If you have them on hand, fresh basil or parsley can elevate the soup’s flavor. Just toss them in at the end for a burst of freshness.
• Let it sit: This soup tastes even better the next day! Let it cool and refrigerate overnight, then reheat to enjoy the deepened flavors.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to throw in some diced potatoes or kale for added texture and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best lentil sausage soup that your family will rave about!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying hearty lentil sausage soup, it’s always good to have a general idea of its nutritional content. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can’t provide exact numbers, here’s a general overview of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: 439 kcal
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 1843 mg
• Cholesterol: 64 mg

This soup is not only comforting but also packs a punch with its protein and fiber content, making it a filling choice for any meal. So, enjoy your bowl of lentil sausage soup knowing it’s a delicious and nutritious option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lentil sausage soup is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience you’ll want to savor again and again. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time and about an hour of cooking, you can whip up a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty Flavor: The combination of ground beef sausage, tender lentils, and vibrant vegetables creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. Each spoonful feels like a warm embrace!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the sausage and lentils, plus fiber from the vegetables, this soup is a wholesome choice that will keep you feeling full and energized.
• Versatile & Adaptable: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. It’s a great way to use up what you have in the fridge!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal option for meal prep. Enjoy it now or save some for later; it tastes even better the next day!

With all these wonderful benefits, it’s easy to see why this lentil sausage soup is a beloved recipe in my home. Give it a try, and I know you’ll fall in love with it too!

Variations

The beauty of lentil sausage soup is its versatility! You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add more vegetables! Diced potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Different Lentils: While I love using dry brown lentils, you can experiment with green lentils for a firmer texture or even try black lentils for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
• Herb Variations: Switch up the dried herbs with fresh ones! Try adding some fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch. Toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep that vibrant flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mix. They’ll give your soup a delightful kick that warms you from the inside out!
• Protein Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can swap out the ground beef sausage for turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
• Creamy Version: Want to take your soup to the next level? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end for a creamy texture and rich flavor that’s simply irresistible.

These variations not only keep things interesting but also make this lentil sausage soup a canvas for your culinary creativity. So, get adventurous and make it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious lentil sausage soup properly ensures that you can enjoy those hearty flavors for days to come! Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

First, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your soup watery. I usually use glass containers for storage, but any airtight option works just fine. If you plan to eat the soup within a few days, it can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Just make sure to label your containers with the date, so you know when to enjoy it by!

If you want to keep your lentil sausage soup for a longer time, consider freezing it. It freezes beautifully! Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers or even freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just pull it out of the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

Now, for reheating, I recommend doing it gently to preserve that wonderful flavor and texture. If you’re reheating from the fridge, just pour the soup into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If it’s from the freezer, it’s best to let it thaw in the fridge overnight first, then reheat on the stove. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick after reheating. This will help bring back that rich, comforting consistency!

For microwaving, just be sure to use a microwave-safe container and cover it loosely to allow steam to escape. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot all the way through. This way, you’ll avoid any hot spots that can make parts of your soup too hot while others stay chilly.

Following these storage and reheating tips will ensure your lentil sausage soup remains as delicious as the day you made it, ready to warm your soul again whenever you need it!

For more recipes follow me in page Pinterest.

Print