Are you craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Smoked Sausage Lentil Soup! Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with rich, savory aromas and a perfectly prepared dinner that requires minimal effort. This recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal preparation time. Packed with protein-rich lentils, smoky sausage, and a medley of tender vegetables, this soup is about to become your new favorite comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables. Slice smoked sausage into half-moon rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Rinse dried lentils under cold water to remove any debris or small stones. Drain thoroughly.
- Place chopped onions, carrots, and celery into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, creating an even base layer.
- Add sliced smoked sausage on top of the vegetable layer, distributing evenly across the slow cooker.
- Pour rinsed lentils over the sausage and vegetables, ensuring they are spread uniformly.
- Sprinkle dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the ingredients for seasoning.
- Slowly pour chicken broth over all ingredients, making sure to cover the lentils and vegetables completely.
- Cover slow cooker with lid and set to low heat setting for 8 hours.
- After cooking time is complete, stir soup gently to combine ingredients and check seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or crusty bread on the side.
Tips
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Choose a high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor profile. Brands like Hillshire Farm or Johnsonville work great.
- Lentil Prep is Key: Always rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and prevent any unwanted grit in your soup.
- Layer Strategically: Follow the recipe's layering technique - vegetables first, then sausage, then lentils - to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Don't Skimp on Seasoning: While the recipe calls for basic salt and pepper, consider adding a bay leaf or a dash of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Liquid Level is Crucial: Ensure the lentils and vegetables are completely covered by the chicken broth to prevent drying out.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep.
- Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add additional vegetables like diced potatoes or spinach for extra nutrition and variety.
- Serving Suggestion: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can elevate the presentation and add a fresh touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
