Lentil sausage soup has a special place in the hearts of comfort food enthusiasts. With its hearty texture, savory flavors, and nourishing ingredients, this dish is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. Inspired by Smitten Kitchen’s signature recipe, this version of lentil sausage soup combines wholesome ingredients and an effortless cooking process to create a bowl of pure delight. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or looking to impress at a family gathering, this recipe is your perfect go-to.

The Magic of Lentil Sausage Soup

Lentil sausage soup’s popularity lies in its ability to be both rustic and refined. The recipe, rooted in Smitten Kitchen’s renowned culinary approach, elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary. But what makes this soup so magical?

The Unique Blend of Ingredients: The combination of protein-packed lentils and flavorful sausages creates a balance of textures and tastes that’s hard to beat.
The Origins of the Recipe: Smitten Kitchen’s rendition stays true to the comforting essence of traditional lentil soups while incorporating subtle modern twists that make it shine.
A Universal Crowd-Pleaser: Its hearty nature appeals to meat lovers and vegetarians alike (with easy tweaks), making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Choosing Quality Ingredients

The secret to an exceptional lentil sausage soup lies in the quality of its ingredients. Here’s how to make the best choices:

Picking the Right Lentils: Opt for green or brown lentils, which hold their shape during cooking. Avoid red lentils, as they tend to break down into a mushier consistency.
Sausage Selection: Go for spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a kick, or choose mild sausage for a more balanced flavor. For a healthier option, lean chicken or turkey sausage works beautifully.
Key Supporting Ingredients: Swiss chard adds an earthy depth, while tomatoes bring brightness to the dish. Don’t skimp on fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor.
Vegetarian or Vegan Variations: Swap out the sausage for plant-based alternatives, such as smoked tofu or vegan sausage crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Smitten kitchen lentil sausage soup Recipe

This hearty soup is the perfect remedy for cold winter days. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and doesn’t require broth—water works perfectly due to the aromatics and seasoning. Vegetarian and vegan modifications are possible (skip the sausage and cheese), but don’t skip the finishing touch of sizzling garlic oil—it elevates the dish to something unforgettable.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

– **1/2 cup olive oil** divided
– **2 large links about 8 ounces** of sweet Italian sausage (or your preference)
– **1 medium onion** diced
– **2 celery ribs** sliced or diced
– **2 medium carrots** peeled and sliced into half-moons or diced
– **4 cloves garlic** sliced (reserve half for later in recipe)
– **Kosher salt**
– A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes optional
– **1 cup brown lentils** sorted and rinsed
– **2 bay leaves**
– **1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes**
– **6 cups water** approximately 2 empty tomato cans worth
– Freshly ground black pepper
– **3 to 4 cups shredded Swiss chard leaves** or kale, as a substitute
– Grated **Pecorino Romano cheese** to finish

Instructions

#### On the Stove

**Sauté the Sausage:** Heat **1/4 cup olive oil** in a large pot over medium to medium-high heat. Add sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned (about 5 minutes).
**Cook the Vegetables:** Add onion, celery, carrots, half of the garlic, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Cook with sausage until vegetables soften slightly (about 5 more minutes).
**Simmer the Soup:** Add lentils, bay leaves, tomatoes, water, and additional salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until lentils are tender, about 40 minutes. If the soup gets too thick, add a bit more water.
**Add the Greens:** Stir in the chard or kale just before serving and cook for a few minutes until tender. Discard bay leaves.

#### In an InstantPot or Multicooker

Use the sauté function to cook the sausage, followed by the vegetables as described above.
Add lentils, bay leaves, tomatoes, and water. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for **15 minutes**. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Return to sauté mode to bring the soup to a simmer and add the greens. Cook until wilted.

#### To Finish

Heat the remaining **1/4 cup olive oil** with the reserved garlic in a small skillet over medium heat until the garlic softens and sizzles.
Drizzle the garlic oil over each serving of soup and top with freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Pass additional cheese at the table.

Secrets to the Perfect Lentil Soup

To elevate your soup to restaurant-quality levels, focus on these tips:

Cooking Lentils Properly: Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove debris. Cook them until tender but still firm to the bite, avoiding overcooking that leads to a mushy texture.
Avoiding Blandness: Layer your flavors by sautéing garlic, onions, and carrots in olive oil before adding the broth. A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can add depth.
Seasoning Wisely: Season with salt and pepper gradually as you cook, tasting frequently to adjust the balance.
Ideal Cooking Time: Simmer the soup for 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without losing the distinct texture of each ingredient.

Serving and Variations

Presentation is key to making your lentil sausage soup irresistible. Consider these ideas:

Serving Suggestions: Ladle the soup into deep bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Pairing with Sides: Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light cucumber salad are excellent companions.
Recipe Variations: Add diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a hint of sweetness. Kale or spinach can replace Swiss chard if preferred.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Closing Thoughts

Smitten Kitchen’s lentil sausage soup isn’t just a recipe – it’s a celebration of comforting, wholesome food that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you’re making it for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this soup is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your table. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the magic of cooking, and savor every spoonful of this culinary masterpiece.

With its delightful balance of flavors and textures, lentil sausage soup is truly a dish worth sharing. Try this recipe today and let it become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.