One Pot Italian Lentil Soup

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If you’re looking for the perfect way to enjoy a warm, comforting meal, this hearty Italian lentil soup recipe is just what you need! Made with protein-rich lentils, spicy Italian sausage, and a blend of nutritious ingredients, this delicious soup is packed with big flavors and rustic texture.

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Why You’ll Love This Hearty Lentil Soup

• Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
• Cooks in just one large pot, making cleanup easy
• Packed with protein-rich lentils and fresh vegetables
• Full of warming Italian flavors

Ingredients for Lentil Soup

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced or pressed
• 6 cups of broth (vegetable broth, chicken broth, or beef broth)
• 1 cup lentils (green lentils, red lentils, or brown lentils)
• 8 oz Rotel
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Italian Lentil Soup

Brown the Italian Sausage

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the sausage into smaller pieces. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and slightly crispy on the edges. If there is excess grease, drain some of it, but leave a small amount to enhance the soup’s flavor.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the sausage is browning, chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend well into the soup.

Sauté the Aromatics

Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

Add the Garlic

Mince or press the garlic cloves and add them to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can develop a bitter taste.

Pour in the Broth

Slowly pour in the broth of your choice—vegetable broth, chicken broth, or beef broth. Each type of broth will bring a slightly different flavor, but all work well in this recipe. Stir to combine.

Add the Lentils

Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any excess starch or debris. Add them to the pot, stirring gently to mix them evenly with the broth and other ingredients. Green lentils, red lentils, or brown lentils all work well in this soup.

Stir in the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add the Rotel and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Then, season the soup by adding salt, ground cumin, bay leaf, dried thyme, curry powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to distribute the seasonings throughout the broth.

Add the Apple Cider Vinegar

Pour in the apple cider vinegar, which helps enhance the soup’s overall flavor and adds a subtle tangy depth to balance the richness of the sausage and lentils.

Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.

Check for Doneness

After 30 minutes, check the lentils. They should be tender but not mushy. If they need more time, continue simmering for another 5-10 minutes.

Remove the Bay Leaf and Adjust Seasoning

Take out and discard the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, black pepper, or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Garnish and Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. For extra richness, drizzle a little olive oil over each bowl before serving.

Pair with a Side

Serve with crusty bread for dipping, or add leafy greens like baby spinach or Swiss chard for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this soup with crusty bread or toasted garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
• Add baby spinach or Swiss chard for extra leafy greens and nutrients.
• Stir in a splash of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor combination.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen!
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for a make-ahead meal.

Variations of Lentil Soup

• Vegetarian Lentil Soup: Omit the sausage and use vegetable stock for a vegan soup packed with flavor.
• Instant Pot Version: Brown the sausage using the sauté function, then add the rest of the ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes and let it naturally release.
• Slow Cooker Method: Brown the sausage, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

This hearty lentil soup is a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, flavor-packed meals. Whether you’re new to lentil recipes or it’s already in your regular rotation, this dish is sure to impress. So next time you’re craving a warm, homemade soup, give this recipe a try!

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