Sausage Lentil Soup! A truly comforting, robust, and incredibly satisfying stew that’s surprisingly easy to prepare in either your Instant Pot or slow cooker. Packed with savory flavors, this recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished family favorite.
Originally shared in December 2017 and updated in 2023, this heartwarming Sausage Lentil Soup continues to be an all-time reader and family favorite recipe. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its delicious taste and straightforward preparation.
If you’re constantly seeking effortless, flavorful, and profoundly satisfying soup recipes, your search ends here. This Sausage Lentil Soup offers everything you crave in a hearty meal. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and comfort on a chilly evening, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.
We’ve been enjoying this delightful soup for years, and it consistently earns rave reviews from everyone who tries it. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages, even the pickiest eaters. We often serve it alongside a generous slice of gluten-free cornbread or a batch of fluffy gluten-free corn muffins, which perfectly complements its rich flavors. My kids absolutely adore this meal!
Why This Sausage Lentil Soup Will Be Your New Go-To
There are countless reasons why this Sausage Lentil Soup stands out as a must-try recipe. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience in wholesome comfort and flavor.
- Effortlessly Easy to Make: With minimal active cooking time, this recipe simplifies dinner prep, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you prefer the speed of an Instant Pot or the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe adapts beautifully to both methods, fitting seamlessly into any busy schedule.
- Incredibly Hearty and Comforting: A generous bowl of this soup is like a warm embrace on a cold day. It’s packed with ingredients that satisfy your hunger and soothe your soul, making it ideal for cozy evenings.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of savory Italian sausage, earthy lentils, aromatic vegetables, and a medley of herbs creates a complex, deeply satisfying flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Wholesome and Nutritious: Rich in protein from the sausage and fiber from the lentils and vegetables, this soup is a nourishing meal that contributes to a balanced diet, keeping you full and energized.
- A True Family Favorite: This recipe has earned its stripes as a consistent hit in our household, beloved by adults and children alike. It’s a reliable choice for family dinners and gatherings.
Watch How to Make This Delicious Soup!
For a visual guide to preparing this incredible Sausage Lentil Soup, be sure to check out our step-by-step video. It walks you through each stage, ensuring your soup turns out perfect every time. (Video content here, if available, would be embedded using a standard
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Sausage Lentil Soup
Crafting this flavorful soup begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at the key components and some helpful notes to ensure the best results:
- Sausage: I typically opt for mild Italian sausage, which lends a rich, savory depth without overwhelming the other flavors. However, if you enjoy a bit of heat, hot Italian sausage is an excellent alternative. While pork sausage is my go-to, chicken or turkey sausage also works wonderfully for a leaner option, just ensure it’s well-seasoned.
- Lentils: For the best texture and flavor, I highly recommend using small, French green lentils. They hold their shape beautifully during cooking, preventing the soup from becoming mushy. Brown lentils are another great choice, offering a similar earthy flavor. Red lentils can be used but tend to break down more, creating a creamier soup, which some prefer. Always remember to rinse your lentils thoroughly before cooking!
- Kale: Adding some chopped kale towards the end of cooking not only introduces vibrant greens and extra nutrition but also perfectly complements the sausage. Even those who are hesitant about kale often find it delicious in this stew, as it softens and blends seamlessly into the rich broth. Feel free to use spinach or Swiss chard as alternatives if kale isn’t available.
- Chicken Stock: This forms the base of our savory broth. While chicken stock is preferred for its deeper flavor, chicken broth will also work well. I often use the convenient boxed variety, especially from larger retailers like Costco, for its quality and value. Ensure it’s low-sodium if you want to control the salt content.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A mere half teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile without making the soup overly spicy. It provides just enough zing to elevate the dish. If you crave more heat, feel free to increase the amount to your liking.
- Aromatics (Onion, Celery, Carrots, Garlic): This classic combination forms the foundational flavor base, known as mirepoix. Sautéing these vegetables properly brings out their sweetness and aromatic qualities, creating a deeply flavored broth. Don’t rush this step!
- Tomato Paste: A tablespoon of tomato paste adds a concentrated umami richness and a slight acidity that balances the savory elements of the soup.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs (often including oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary) is crucial for imparting the signature Italian-inspired flavor.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Adds tanginess and chunks of tomato for texture and robust flavor.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the sausage and vegetables, building the first layers of flavor.
Important Note for Gluten-Free Diets
For those following a gluten-free diet, it’s crucial to be aware that lentils can sometimes be cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains during harvesting or processing. To ensure your soup remains entirely gluten-free, always purchase certified gluten-free lentils if possible, and make sure to meticulously rinse and pick over them before cooking. As mentioned, French green lentils are often a safer bet as they tend to be cleaner and maintain their shape better.
To serve, you can top this glorious soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory goodness. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese – it’s delicious either way! My husband, a fan of all things spicy, loves to finish his bowl with a dash of his favorite hot sauce, adding a fiery kick.
This recipe yields a substantial batch of soup, which is fantastic news because the leftovers are absolutely divine and often even better the next day! It’s a perfect candidate for your weekly meal rotation, especially when you need a reliable and satisfying Instant Pot or slow cooker dinner. If you enjoy hearty, gluten-free meals, you might also love our gluten-free chicken pot pie, a succulent sirloin tip roast, or our classic gluten-free beef stew. Don’t forget to explore our full collection of gluten-free soup recipes for more delicious inspiration!
More Comforting Soups to Warm Your Soul
If you’ve enjoyed this Sausage Lentil Soup, you’ll love exploring our other cozy and satisfying soup recipes. Each one is designed to bring comfort and flavor to your table, perfect for any season.
Explore Our Collection
Carrot Ginger Soup
Sausage Lentil Soup
Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup
Gluten-Free Beef Stew
Dairy-Free Potato Soup
Sweet Corn Soup
Sausage Lentil Soup (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker!)
Erin Collins
10 mins
25 mins
35 mins
10 servings
Sausage Lentil Soup! One of our family’s all-time favorite meals. A cozy, hearty stew made easy in the slow-cooker or Instant Pot. Full of flavor and so satisfying!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, pork or chicken)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3-4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 29 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 5 cups chicken stock (+1-2 more cups for the slow cooker)
- 1 1/2 cups dry lentils, rinsed and picked over (preferably French Green Lentils)
- 1 cup finely chopped kale (optional, or use spinach)
Instructions
FOR THE INSTANT POT:
- Press the SAUTE button on the Instant Pot and let it preheat for 1-2 minutes. Add the olive oil and Italian sausage. Cook, breaking into small pieces with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot to the Instant Pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, chicken stock, and the rinsed lentils. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring nothing is stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the vent is sealed. Press the MANUAL (or Pressure Cook) button and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully quick release any remaining steam. Once the float valve drops, open the lid.
- Stir in the finely chopped kale until it wilts into the hot soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy!
FOR THE SLOW COOKER:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and Italian sausage. Cook, breaking the sausage into small pieces with a spoon, until it is no longer pink and is fully browned.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Add the canned diced tomatoes, 6 cups of chicken stock (the slow cooker may require slightly more liquid), and the rinsed and picked over lentils. Stir all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded.
- Stir in the finely chopped kale during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking until it’s tender. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired, and savor this comforting stew!
Notes
This recipe makes a larger batch, which is perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. The leftovers are incredibly delicious and tend to deepen in flavor overnight!
This soup also freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
GLUTEN-FREE? As noted above, lentils are sometimes cross-contaminated with other grains. Always be sure to carefully rinse and pick through your lentils before adding them to the soup. I prefer using small green French lentils as they are typically very clean and hold their shape beautifully.
Nutrition
Calories: 357kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 883mg | Potassium: 778mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 3239IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 4mg
Nutrition facts are an estimate based on ingredients used and may vary.
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
This Hearty Sausage Lentil Soup is a complete meal on its own, but it truly shines when paired with a few simple accompaniments. For a classic comfort food experience, serve it with warm, crusty bread or our aforementioned gluten-free cornbread or muffins, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth. A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stew.
Beyond the basics, consider these delightful toppings and sides: a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a creamy tang, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro brightens the flavors. For those who enjoy an extra layer of spice, a dash of hot sauce or a few more red pepper flakes can customize each bowl. Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese, which adds a wonderful salty, umami kick.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips for Busy Weeks
One of the best qualities of this Sausage Lentil Soup is how well it stores and reheats, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Its flavors deepen over time, often tasting even better the next day!
Refrigerator Storage:
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might need to add a splash of extra chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency, as the lentils can absorb more liquid as they sit.
Freezer Storage:
This soup is a freezer superstar! Allow the soup to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Lay bags flat to freeze for easy stacking. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Freezing individual portions makes for quick and easy weeknight meals.
Reheating Tips:
- When reheating from the fridge, stir well. If it’s too thick, add a little more broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- From frozen, you can gently reheat it on the stovetop directly from frozen on low heat, stirring frequently, or thaw it first for faster reheating.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Sausage Lentil Soup
While this classic recipe is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand:
- Spice Level: For a milder soup, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For a bolder kick, add an extra pinch or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional content and flavor by adding other vegetables. Diced zucchini, bell peppers, spinach (stirred in at the very end), or even small potato chunks can be excellent additions.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs always elevate a dish. Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or a sprig of thyme for an aromatic finish. You can also add dried bay leaves during cooking for an extra layer of savory depth, removing them before serving.
- Different Proteins: Not a fan of Italian sausage? Try ground beef, ground turkey, or even a plant-based sausage alternative for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the protein is fully cooked.
- Creamy Texture: For a richer, creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk (for a dairy-free option), or even a tablespoon of softened cream cheese right before serving.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for a deeper, more complex smoky flavor profile.
- Heartier Grains: While lentils are the star, you could also add a small amount of quick-cooking grains like quinoa or rice during the last stages of cooking for an even heartier stew.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sausage Lentil Soup
Got questions about making the best Sausage Lentil Soup? Here are some common queries and our expert answers:
Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can! While French green lentils are recommended for their ability to hold shape and texture, brown or regular green lentils are excellent alternatives. Red lentils can also be used, but they tend to break down more, resulting in a creamier, less chunky soup. Adjust cooking times as needed, as red lentils cook faster.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! This Sausage Lentil Soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. It makes for an excellent make-ahead meal option.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply swap the Italian pork sausage for a plant-based Italian sausage substitute or omit it entirely. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Consider adding mushrooms or extra vegetables for more bulk and umami flavor.
What if my soup is too thick or too thin?
If your soup is too thick after cooking, simply stir in additional chicken stock or water, a quarter cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, or mash a small portion of the lentils against the side of the pot to naturally thicken the broth.
Do I need to soak the lentils?
No, lentils generally do not require soaking before cooking, unlike other dried legumes. A thorough rinse is usually sufficient to remove any debris. Soaking can sometimes lead to overly soft or mushy lentils, which we want to avoid for this hearty soup.
This Sausage Lentil Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a wholesome, flavorful tradition waiting to be made in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish will undoubtedly make it a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table!