Carrabba’s Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe Made Easy

Warm, hearty, and packed with bold flavors, Carrabba’s Lentil and Sausage Soup is a comforting classic that belongs in your weekly meal rotation. This rustic Italian-inspired soup combines the earthiness of lentils with the savory kick of Italian sausage, simmered together with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a nutritious lunch to fuel your day, this soup ticks all the boxes with its rich texture and satisfying taste.

Not only is this recipe incredibly delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a bowl of this flavorful soup ready to enjoy in less than an hour.

Let’s dive into the details so you can bring a taste of Carrabba’s kitchen right into your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lentil and Sausage Soup is a beautiful harmony of flavors and nutrition. The lentils provide a hearty base packed with protein and fiber, making the soup both filling and healthy.

Meanwhile, the Italian sausage adds a savory depth and a hint of spice that complements the natural earthiness of the lentils.

Another reason to love this soup is its versatility. It can be made in a large batch for easy leftovers, frozen for future meals, or customized with your favorite vegetables and spices.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted to suit different dietary preferences.

Best of all, this recipe is inspired by a beloved dish from Carrabba’s Italian Grill, bringing restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth or low-sodium stock
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (for rinsing lentils)
• Ladle (for serving)
• Bowl (optional, for removing sausage)

Instructions

1. Prepare the sausage: Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside in a bowl, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add herbs and spices: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30 seconds to toast the herbs and release their aroma.
4. Combine lentils and liquids: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let the soup simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
6. Return sausage to pot: Stir the cooked sausage back into the soup. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a splash of red wine during the sautéing step.”

If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To add more depth, consider including diced mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky note.

For a creamier texture, you can partially puree the soup with an immersion blender before adding the sausage back in. This creates a velvety consistency while still maintaining some chunks of vegetables and lentils.

Looking for more spice? Swap the Italian sausage for chorizo, or add a pinch more crushed red pepper flakes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sausage and lentils.

For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted vegetables or a plate of sautéed greens like spinach or kale. A glass of dry Italian red wine, such as Chianti, complements the savory flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about a bowl of Carrabba’s Lentil and Sausage Soup — it’s the perfect blend of comforting, nutritious, and flavorful. This recipe offers a wonderful way to enjoy a classic Italian-inspired dish at home with minimal fuss and maximum taste.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this soup fits seamlessly into any menu.

With wholesome ingredients like lentils, fresh vegetables, and savory sausage, it’s a satisfying option that nourishes both body and soul. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite go-to soup for any season.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like Chicken Marsala, Shrimp Scampi, and Tuscan Garlic Chicken to keep your Italian dinners exciting and fresh!

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