“`html
If you are craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that practically makes itself, this Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe is an absolute game changer. Packed with savory Italian sausage, smoky bacon, tender lentils, and a melody of fresh vegetables, it’s the perfect blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re coming home after a busy day or planning a cozy weekend dinner, this slow cooker gem will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your belly with satisfying goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe is delightfully simple because every ingredient plays an important role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the crispy bacon that lends a smoky depth to the earthy lentils that add hearty substance, each component is essential for making this soup truly unforgettable.
- Bacon (6 strips, cut into small pieces): Adds a smoky, crispy base that infuses the soup with deep flavor.
- Italian sausage (16 ounces): Brings savory, spiced richness that’s the star protein of the dish.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped finely): Provides a slightly sweet and aromatic foundation when sautéed.
- Celery (2 sticks, chopped finely): Adds a subtle crunch and fresh herbal note.
- Red bell pepper (1 medium, chopped finely): Injects bright color and a gentle sweetness.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Offers fragrant warmth that ties all the flavors together.
- Chicken broth (6 cups): The savory liquid base that softens lentils and unites all ingredients.
- Tomato sauce (15 ounces): Adds a rich, tangy depth that complements the sausage beautifully.
- Dry green or brown lentils (1.5 cups): The hearty legume that gives the soup staying power and texture.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Brings an earthy, herbal note that’s classic in Italian cooking.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon or to taste): Adds just a touch of heat for a balanced kick.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors to life.
How to Make Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Start by frying the bacon over medium-high heat until it reaches that perfect crispy texture, about 10 minutes. This step not only creates a delicious crispy topping but also renders flavorful bacon fat, which is excellent for cooking the sausage and veggies in the next steps. Once crisped, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain while you continue.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon so it browns evenly and develops rich caramelized bits. This should take about 7 to 8 minutes. Browning the sausage releases those incredible flavors and ensures every mouthful bursts with savory goodness. Transfer the cooked sausage to the plate with the bacon and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Leave about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the grease in the skillet to sauté the finely chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook this mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and develop a light golden color. This process deepens the flavors and creates a sweet, aromatic base that elevates the entire soup.
Step 4: Add the Garlic and Transfer Ingredients
Stir in the minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for roughly 30 seconds, just enough to release its robust aroma without turning bitter. Then, transfer the sautéed veggie mixture right into your slow cooker, setting the stage for the rest of the ingredients to join the party.
Step 5: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Add the cooked bacon and sausage to the slow cooker along with chicken broth, tomato sauce, lentils, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything gently, ensuring the lentils are fully submerged. Set your slow cooker to high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. This slow, patient cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while the lentils soften to a tender, comforting consistency.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Optional Blend
Before serving, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a slightly creamier texture, grab an immersion blender and pulse a few times to blend part of the soup while leaving plenty of chunky goodness. This step adds a velvety touch without losing the soup’s hearty, rustic character.
How to Serve Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a handful of grated Parmesan adds a burst of freshness and an extra pop of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s rich, savory base. A drizzle of good olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten each spoonful and elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
Serve this soup alongside crusty artisan bread or garlic-rubbed toasted baguette slices to soak up every last bit of the luscious broth. A simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup wonderfully for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and top with crispy bacon crumbs and freshly cracked black pepper. Another idea is to serve it in bread bowls for an inviting, comforting presentation that your guests will love. You could even garnish with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a silky finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the second day around if not better!
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its taste or texture, making it a perfect meal prep option.
Reheating
When you’re ready for a warm bowl, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until piping hot throughout. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage works wonderfully thanks to its savory spices, feel free to experiment with other varieties like chorizo, bratwurst, or even chicken sausage for a different flavor profile that still complements the lentils well.
Do I need to soak lentils before adding them to the slow cooker?
No soaking is required for green or brown lentils in this soup. They cook perfectly in the 3-4 hour high or 6-8 hour low setting of the slow cooker, softening up nicely without getting mushy.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the lentils are tender and flavors meld. Just stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.
How spicy is this soup as written?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a subtle warmth and a slight kick, but you can easily adjust the heat level by using more or less. For no spice, simply omit the red pepper flakes entirely.
Can I use canned lentils instead of dry lentils?
While you can, dry lentils hold up better in slow cooking and absorb more flavor. Using canned lentils would require adding them towards the end of cooking and slightly reducing cooking time to prevent them from becoming overly mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe is a true kitchen champion—effortless to prepare yet brimming with bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or feeding a hungry crowd, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. Give it a try and discover why it’s one of my all-time favorite slow cooker meals to share.
“`
Print
Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (240 minutes)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hearty and flavorful Sausage and Lentil Soup cooked slowly in a slow cooker, combining crispy bacon, Italian sausage, tender lentils, and a medley of vegetables in a rich tomato and chicken broth base. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Meats
- 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped finely
- 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped finely
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Sauces
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 1.5 cups dry green or brown lentils
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- Brown the sausage: In the same skillet, add the Italian sausage and cook for 7-8 minutes, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. Transfer the sausage to the same plate as the bacon.
- Sauté the vegetables: Leave 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet, then add the chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
- Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then transfer the vegetable mixture into the slow cooker.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Add the cooked bacon and sausage, chicken broth, tomato sauce, lentils, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Slow cook the soup: Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 3-4 hours, or set to low and cook for 6-8 hours until lentils are tender and flavors meld.
- Season and blend: Season the soup with salt and pepper as needed. Optionally, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture while leaving some lentils whole.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it with an immersion blender before serving.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes for more or less heat according to taste.
- If you don’t have Italian sausage, you can substitute with spicy or sweet sausage varieties.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for longer storage.
