Sausage and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker)

This hearty sausage and lentil soup is a comforting, stick-to-your-ribs meal perfect for cooler weather. Slow cooked with Italian sausage, smoky bacon, vegetables, and earthy lentils, it’s a nourishing bowl of flavor that requires minimal effort. Just set it in your crockpot and let it simmer until everything is tender and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is rich, flavorful, and satisfying enough to be served as a full meal. The combination of smoky bacon, savory sausage, and protein-packed lentils creates a filling dish that’s both rustic and comforting. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy—simply prep the ingredients, let them simmer, and return to a ready-to-eat dinner. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces

• 16 ounces Italian sausage

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 celery sticks, finely chopped

• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups chicken broth

• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 1.5 cups dry green or brown lentils

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Fry bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the fat in the skillet.

2. In the same skillet, cook sausage until browned, about 7–8 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Transfer to the plate with bacon.

3. Leave 1–2 tablespoons of grease in the skillet. Add onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly browned.

4. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Transfer everything from the skillet to the slow cooker.

5. Add bacon, sausage, chicken broth, tomato sauce, lentils, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

6. Cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–8 hours, until lentils are tender.

7. Season with salt and pepper. For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 4 hours (on high) or 6–8 hours (on low)

• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (high) or 6 hours 15 minutes (low)

Variations

• Swap Italian sausage for spicy sausage to add heat.

• Use brown lentils, French green lentils, or a mix for different textures.

• Add chopped spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra greens.

• Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving for brightness.

• For a stovetop version, simmer all ingredients in a Dutch oven for about 1 hour.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much. This soup also freezes well—cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this without bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon, though it adds a smoky depth. Use a little olive oil to sauté the vegetables instead.

What type of lentils work best?

Green or brown lentils hold their shape well and provide great texture in this soup.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, but the flavor won’t be as rich. Browning raw sausage adds depth and helps season the broth.

Do I need to soak lentils first?

No soaking is necessary—just rinse them before adding to the slow cooker.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, but chicken broth gives the soup a more robust flavor.

Will this recipe work in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then allow a natural release for 10 minutes.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Zucchini, carrots, or spinach are great additions.

How do I keep the soup from getting too thick?

Add extra broth or water toward the end of cooking if needed.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes very well. Store in portions for easy thaw-and-heat meals.

Conclusion

Sausage and lentil soup is the ultimate slow cooker comfort food—rich, hearty, and brimming with flavor. With smoky bacon, savory sausage, and protein-packed lentils, it makes a complete and nourishing meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Easy to prep, freezer-friendly, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your dinner rotation

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