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 dried green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Wellness Kitchen Ideas

Enjoy a hearty and flavorful Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup that warms you from the inside out. Packed with nutrients and delicious spices, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-29T19:42:28.121Z

This Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup is a delightful combination of earthy lentils and savory sausage, perfect for those seeking a comforting meal. The rich flavors are enhanced by the addition of smoked paprika, giving it an irresistible depth.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with a smoky twist
Packed with protein and fiber from lentils
Perfect for meal prep or cozy family dinners

      

The Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, making them an excellent choice for soups and stews. They are rich in protein and fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to maintain a healthy diet or lose weight. Additionally, lentils are low in calories, which means you can enjoy this hearty soup without the guilt.

Beyond their nutritional value, lentils are packed with vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining overall health, supporting everything from energy levels to immune function. Incorporating lentils into your meals can help you meet your daily requirements for these essential nutrients.

Smoky Flavors that Delight

The combination of smoked sausage and smoked paprika in this soup creates a rich, smoky flavor profile that is both comforting and unique. The smokiness adds depth to the dish, elevating it from a basic lentil soup to a truly satisfying meal. This flavor is particularly appealing on chilly evenings when a warm bowl of soup can truly hit the spot.

Using smoked sausage not only enhances the flavor but also contributes additional protein to the dish. The sausage's savory notes complement the earthiness of the lentils, making every spoonful a delight. Whether you're a fan of spicy or mild sausage, choosing your preferred type can personalize the soup to your taste.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best things about this Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup is its versatility for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. The flavors deepen and improve after a day or two, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking.

When stored properly, this soup can last up to five days in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick, hearty meal. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or for those who want to have nutritious meals ready to go without the daily cooking stress.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Sausage and Spices

Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly. Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Combine Lentils and Broth

Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is ready, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your hearty Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup!

Serving Suggestions

This Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. A slice of warm, buttery bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth. Alternatively, a simple green salad can add a refreshing crunch and balance to the hearty soup.

For a little extra flair, consider topping your soup with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The creaminess complements the smoky flavors beautifully and adds a tangy contrast that elevates each bite.

Storage Tips

To ensure your Smoky Lentil Sausage Soup stays fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container. If you plan to freeze it, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easy reheating. This way, you can grab a single serving whenever you need a quick meal without having to thaw the entire batch.

When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to bring back the soup's desired consistency. This will help prevent it from becoming too thick after being stored, ensuring every bowl is just as delicious as the first.

Variations to Try

While the recipe as it stands is a winner, don't hesitate to get creative! You can easily swap out the smoked sausage for a vegetarian alternative or even try adding different vegetables such as spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost. Each variation offers a new twist on this classic recipe, keeping your meals exciting.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mix. This can elevate the flavor profile and give the soup an additional kick that pairs wonderfully with the smoky undertones.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for later.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

→ Can I use other types of beans or lentils?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different lentils or even add canned beans for variety.