Name: Hearty Sausage Lentil Soup with Kale in 50 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb (454g) ground Italian pork sausage (mild); 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1/2 cup chopped celery (~ 2 stalks); 1/2 cup diced carrots; 3 cloves garlic; 2 cups diced sweet potato (1 large sweet potato); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper; 1 cup brown lentils; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 bay leaves; 4 cups lacinato (aka dinosaur) kale, roughly chopped and loosely packed (1 large bunch); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Grated parmesan, for topping

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Sausage Lentil Soup with kale is a dish that warms both the heart and the soul. This hearty and delicious soup combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, earthy lentils, and nutrient-rich kale in a well-spiced broth. The best part? It comes together in just one pot and takes less than 50 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening or a nutritious option to feed your family, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Lentil Soup with

This hearty Sausage Lentil Soup is not only packed with flavor but also provides numerous health benefits. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Rich in protein from the sausage and lentils, making it a high-protein Sausage Lentil Soup.
Loaded with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, especially kale.
Simple and quick to make, perfect for easy Sausage Lentil Soup recipe enthusiasts.
One-pot meal saves on cleanup time.
Comforting and filling, ideal for the whole family.
Versatile, allowing for variations like vegan Sausage Lentil Soup alternatives.

This soup is not just delicious; it’s a nutritious option for a balanced diet, classified as gluten-free and falling under the Italian cuisine category.

Ingredients for Sausage Lentil Soup with

Gather these items:

1 lb (454g) ground Italian pork sausage (mild)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1/2 cup chopped celery (~ 2 stalks)
1/2 cup diced carrots
3 cloves garlic
2 cups diced sweet potato (1 large sweet potato)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
1 cup brown lentils
8 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
4 cups lacinato (aka dinosaur) kale, roughly chopped and loosely packed (1 large bunch)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Grated parmesan, for topping

How to Make Sausage Lentil Soup with Step-by-Step

Step 1: To a large pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage and cook, stirring frequently, until browned.
Step 2: Next, remove the cooked sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving the oil behind. Reduce the temperature to medium heat, and add in the onions and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until they begin to soften and become translucent. Next, add in the sweet potato, carrots, celery, and garlic and cook for 3-5 minutes, until celery and carrots begin to soften.
Step 3: Add in the spices, lentils, cooked sausage, chicken broth, and bay leaves, and bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Step 4: Once the lentils are cooked, add in the lemon juice and kale and stir, then cook for 2 more minutes until the kale is wilted. Serve with a little grated parmesan, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Lentil Soup with

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Substitute the sausage with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
This dish is a comforting Sausage Lentil Soup that can be easily reheated.

Best Ways to Serve Sausage Lentil Soup with

Pair this delicious soup with:

Crusty bread for dipping.
A fresh salad for a complete meal.
Over rice or quinoa for a heartier option, making it a one-pot Sausage Lentil Soup meal.

How to Store and Reheat Sausage Lentil Soup with

To store your soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. This is a fantastic dish for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Lentil Soup with

What is Sausage Lentil Soup?

Sausage Lentil Soup is a nutritious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of savory sausage, lentils, and vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s both filling and comforting, perfect for any occasion.

Why is Sausage Lentil Soup healthy?

This soup is rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the lentils and sausage. The addition of vegetables like kale and sweet potatoes enhances its nutrient profile, making it a wholesome choice for a meal. For more information on the health benefits of lentils, check out this Healthline article.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sausage Lentil Soup?

Common mistakes include not cooking the lentils long enough or over-seasoning the soup. Always taste as you go, and adjust the cooking time based on the lentils’ doneness to ensure a perfect consistency.

Variations of Sausage Lentil Soup with You Can Try

Here are some creative variations to consider:

Swap the Italian sausage for a spicy chorizo for a kick.
Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Create a vegan version by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead.

For a delicious side, consider pairing this soup with Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage or a Creamy Potato Soup.