A hearty one-pot soup made with spicy sausage, lentils, vegetables, and herbs in a savory, slightly spicy tomato broth. Perfect for chilly nights or meal prep.
1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 2 cups baby spinach or kale
Fresh parsley, for garnish
In a large pot, brown sausage in olive oil over medium heat. Remove and set aside.
Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened. Add garlic and red pepper flakes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, cook 2–3 minutes.
Add lentils, broth, herbs, and cooked sausage. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30–35 minutes.
Season to taste. Stir in greens if using. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Garnish with parsley and enjoy with bread or a salad.
Add more broth for a thinner soup.
Swap sausage for turkey or plant-based alternatives.
Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.