Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup

Name: Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cooked sausage, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

Warm and comforting, this Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup combines hearty lentils with delicious sausage for a satisfying meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T17:53:47.125Z

This Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for those chilly evenings. The smoky taste from the sausage complements the earthy lentils beautifully.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with a smoky flavor
Packed with protein and fiber from lentils
Perfect for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner

      

The Health Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, making them an excellent addition to any meal. Rich in protein and fiber, they promote satiety, helping you feel full longer. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or reduce snacking between meals. Additionally, lentils are low in fat and cholesterol-free, making them a heart-healthy choice.

Not only are lentils nutritious, but they also provide essential vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of iron, which is crucial for energy production and overall health. Folate, another important nutrient found in lentils, supports healthy cell function and is especially beneficial for pregnant women. Incorporating lentils into your diet can contribute to improved overall well-being.

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to provide comfort. This Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup is not only hearty but also packed with flavor, making it an ideal dish for those cozy nights in. The combination of smoked paprika and sausage creates a delightful smoky essence that warms you from the inside out.

Soup is also incredibly versatile; you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Feel free to swap in different vegetables or use your favorite type of sausage. This flexibility makes it easy to customize the soup to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, ensuring that you can enjoy it time and again.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup is perfect for meal prepping, making it a fantastic option for busy individuals or families. You can easily make a large batch and portion it out for the week ahead. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a healthy, satisfying meal ready to go when you need it.

To store, simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. When you're ready to enjoy a bowl, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient meal that fits seamlessly into your busy life.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cooked sausage, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to adjust the spices to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Spices and Lentils

Stir in the smoked paprika and cumin, then add the lentils. Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Add Sausage

Stir in the cooked sausage, season with salt and pepper, and let it heat through for another 5 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your warm bowl of Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup!

Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Tips for the Best Soup

To elevate the flavors of your Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup, consider adding a splash of red wine or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Cooking the lentils until they are just tender ensures they maintain their shape and texture in the soup, providing a satisfying bite with every spoonful.

If you're looking to enhance the nutritional value, toss in some leafy greens like spinach or kale during the final stages of cooking. These greens add a boost of vitamins and minerals without overwhelming the dish, allowing you to enjoy a well-rounded meal.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal. For an extra touch, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top, which can add creaminess and richness to the dish.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving the soup as a starter, followed by a light main course. Its comforting nature is sure to impress your guests and set the tone for a delightful evening.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup, allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to one week. When freezing, be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand as it freezes.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened during storage, simply add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This ensures that each bowl remains delicious and satisfying, just like when it was first made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the sausage or use a plant-based sausage alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even over rice for a heartier meal.