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Crockpot Sausage Lentil Soup

This hearty Crockpot Sausage Lentil Soup is a comforting, protein-packed, nutrient-rich meal that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker. Made with savory sausage, tender lentils, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this easy recipe is ideal for cozy weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or slow cooker meals that practically cook themselves. Perfect for anyone looking for healthy soup recipes, easy crockpot meals, or a simple way to enjoy a wholesome bowl of flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb 450g Italian sausage (mild or spicy), browned
  • 1 cup dry brown or green lentils rinsed
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Sausage
  2. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add Everything to the Crockpot
  4. Place sausage, lentils, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into the slow cooker.
  5. Add diced tomatoes, broth, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  6. Cook
  7. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until lentils are tender.
  8. Final Touch
  9. Stir in spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes, if using.
  10. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Notes

Lentil options: Brown or green lentils work best; red lentils will become mushy.
Thickness: Add more broth for a thinner soup or let it simmer longer for a thicker texture.
Storage: Keeps for 4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Extra flavor tip: Add smoked paprika or a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
Protein variations: Swap sausage for ground turkey, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage.