Italian Lentil Soup with Sausage and Spinach is a hearty comfort meal that brings together one-pot simplicity, protein-rich lentils, and savory Italian sausage flavor. Brown lentils, sausage, tomatoes, and fresh spinach simmer together in this Italian soup recipe using a simple stovetop cooking method that builds deep flavor with pantry ingredients.
If you love rustic Italian soups, you might also enjoy our Beef and Bean Pasta Soup, Tuscan Tortellini Soup, or this White Bean Soup with Guanciale.
Italian Lentil Soup Recipe at a Glance 🔎
- 🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
- ⏱️ Cook Time: 40 minutes
- 👥 Servings: 6
- 🔥 Cook Method: Stovetop simmer
- 🍽️ Cuisine: Italian
- 👩🍳 Pair With: Crusty bread, simple side salad, Easy Zeppole
- ⭐ Difficulty Level: Easy
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Browning the sausage first creates flavorful bits on the bottom of the pot that give the soup a richer base. ~Jami
Why We Love This Recipe
- Rich and Hearty Flavor: Italian sausage adds depth and spice to the broth, just like our Easy Instant Pot Lasagna Soup, a one-pot dish with all the flavors of classic lasagna in a cozy soup!
- One-Pot Convenience: Easy cleanup and simple cooking method.
- Protein-Packed: Lentils provide fiber and protein for a satisfying meal.
- Customizable: Can be easily adapted with different vegetables or spices.
Key Ingredients
- Lentils: A great source of protein and fiber, they soak up the flavors of the broth well. Love lentils? Try our Easy Greek Lentil Soup with classic Mediterranean flavors.
- Italian Sausage: Adds a rich flavor with a slight spice. Use mild or spicy based on preference.
- Chicken Broth: Provides a flavorful base; opt for low-sodium for better control over seasoning.
- Carrots, Celery, Onion: The classic soup trio that builds a flavorful foundation.
- Diced Tomatoes: Adds a hint of acidity and sweetness.
- Garlic: Improves the overall dish.
- Italian Seasoning & Bay Leaf: Traditional Italian herbs that add flavor.
- Fresh Spinach: Stirred in at the end for added nutrients and freshness.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- Lentils: Swap with red or green lentils for a different texture.
- Italian Sausage: Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a leaner option.
- Spinach: Substitute with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green.
How To Make Hearty Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup with Spinach
STEP 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
STEP 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
STEP 3: Simmer the Soup and Add Spinach
Return the sausage to the pot. Add lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
Stir in fresh spinach. Let it wilt for 2-3 minutes.
STEP 4: Add Parmesan and Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and more meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Brown the sausage well for the best flavor.
✔️ DO Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
✔️ DO Add extra broth if soup thickens.
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Storage
Store Italian Lentil Soup in an airtight container for 3 days. Freeze the lentil soup in portions for up to 3 months.
Lentil Soup with Sausage Recipe FAQs
Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the Italian sausage first, then add all ingredients (except spinach) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in fresh spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking for the best texture and flavor.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the lentils with a spoon while cooking or let the soup simmer longer to reduce excess liquid. Stirring in a small amount of blended cooked lentils can also create a heartier texture without changing the flavor.
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep because the flavors deepen over time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain the ideal consistency.
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📖 Recipe
Italian Lentil Soup with Sausage and Spinach
Equipment
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups dry brown lentils rinsed
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pound mild or sweet italian ground sausage seasoned
- 1 jumbo carrot diced
- 2 medium celery stalks diced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- pinch red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- grated Parmesan cheese for garnish optional
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon (5-7 minutes). Remove the sausage and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and the browned sausage back into the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts (2-3 minutes). Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
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Notes
- Rinse the lentils before cooking to remove excess starch and debris.
- Simmer the soup gently so the lentils cook evenly without splitting.
- Taste and adjust salt after the soup finishes simmering since sausage already contains seasoning.
- Add spinach only during the final few minutes of cooking.
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