This Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) recipe is hearty and flavorful, perfect for an easy weeknight meal. Ready with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker)
If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that requires minimal effort, this Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) is perfect. This soup combines savory Italian sausage with tender lentils and vegetables, slow-cooked to develop deep flavors. It’s an easy go-to for cozy weeknights or batch cooking. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it nourishing as well.
Why You’ll Love It
This slow cooker sausage and lentil soup is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time. The slow cooking process melds the rich sausage flavors with earthy lentils, creating a bowl that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Using pantry staples and fresh veggies, you can have a warm meal waiting for you at the end of the day. It also freezes beautifully for future meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage, casings removed (can substitute with turkey sausage or vegan sausage for a lighter or meatless option)
- 1 large onion, diced (yellow or red onion works well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh or jarred)
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced (can add parsnips for extra sweetness)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (optional but adds crunch and depth)
- 1 cup dried brown lentils, rinsed (green lentils can be used but may require adjustment in cooking time)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (vegetable broth for vegan)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted adds extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (fresh thyme also works)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika as a substitute)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional, adds color and nutrients)
- Olive oil for sautéing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Brown the sausage, breaking it apart, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer cooked sausage to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 5 minutes. Transfer vegetables to the slow cooker.
- Add rinsed lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until lentils are tender and flavors melded.
- If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale 10-15 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
For more comforting dishes, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and try our Hearty Vegetable Stews for meatless inspiration. To explore cooking techniques, Food Network offers excellent guidance and tips.
Expert Tips
To get the best flavor, don’t skip browning the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker. This step renders fat and creates a richer taste. If your lentils start to get too soft, shorten the cooking time on your next attempt. Feel free to swap kale or spinach for other leafy greens such as swiss chard. Leftovers reheat well; avoid adding spinach until reheating to keep it fresh.
Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth and omit any dairy-based toppings.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if using gluten-free sausage. Double-check labels.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe contains no dairy, so it’s safe for dairy-free diets.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt to control sodium levels.
FAQ
- Can I make Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) in advance?
- Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day after flavors meld. Prepare it a day ahead and simply reheat.
- What type of lentils are best for this soup?
- Brown lentils are ideal because they hold their shape well. Green lentils are a good substitute but may require less cooking time.
- Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
- Yes, pre-cooked sausage can be added at the end of cooking to heat through. Reduce slow cooking time accordingly.
- Is this soup freezer-friendly?
- Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
- How do I thicken Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker)?
- To thicken, simmer uncovered after slow cooking to reduce liquid or mash some lentils against the side of the pot.
Call to Action
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