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+ servings
Sausage and Lentil Soup

Hearty Sausage and Lentil Soup for Cozy Nights In

This Hearty Sausage and Lentil Soup is perfect for cozy nights, packed with flavors and warm comfort.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 4 slices Bacon Substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
  • 1 lb Italian sausage Use bulk sausage or remove from casings.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be used for milder taste.
  • 2 stalks Celery Substitute with fennel for a unique taste.
  • 1 medium Red bell pepper Yellow or orange peppers can be used interchangeably.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is best; avoid powdered garlic.
For the Broth
  • 6 cups Chicken broth Vegetable broth can be substituted.
  • 15 oz Tomato sauce Use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
For the Hearty Ingredients
  • 1 cup Lentils (green or brown) Rinse before use; do not substitute with red lentils.
  • 2 tsp Dried oregano Italian seasoning can replace oregano.
  • 1 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Salt Use kosher salt for better control.
  • 1 tsp Pepper

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Fry the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  2. In the same skillet, brown the Italian sausage for 7-8 minutes over medium heat.
  3. Sauté the diced onions, celery, and red bell pepper in the skillet for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  5. Transfer the sautéed mixture and the sausage to a slow cooker.
  6. Add chicken broth, tomato sauce, lentils, oregano, and pepper flakes to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Set the slow cooker to cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
  8. Once cooked, ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 340kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Rinse lentils before adding to the soup to improve texture. Fry bacon first for enhanced flavor.

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