This Sausage and Lentil Stew is the ultimate cozy meal for busy nights—quick to make, filling, and full of rich, savory flavor. Using fully cooked smoked sausage and canned brown lentils, it comes together in about 30 minutes with minimal effort. It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll want on repeat all season long.

Even picky eaters will warm up to this dish. The smoky sausage, tender lentils, and chunky vegetables all simmer together in a tomato-rich broth that feels hearty without being too heavy. It’s familiar and flavorful—nothing too “out there.”

Bonus: It freezes beautifully. Double up the batch and stash some away for those nights when cooking feels like an impossible task.

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 450–550 calories per serving

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage
• Canned brown lentils
• Carrots
• Celery
• Yellow onion
• Garlic
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Olive oil
• Dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Instructions

• Sauté the Veggies: Cook onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil until softened.
• Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic and thyme or seasoning blend.
• Combine Ingredients: Add sliced sausage, brown lentils, tomatoes, and broth.
• Simmer: Let simmer for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
• Serve: Spoon into bowls and serve warm, optionally with crusty bread.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap Sausage: Use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Change Lentils: Green or French lentils can be used instead of brown, but may require longer cooking if uncooked.
• Make It Spicy: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for added heat.
• Add Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving for extra nutrients.

What Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Storage & Reheating Guidelines

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the stew thickens too much.

Top Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook vegetables in an even layer for proper browning and flavor.
• Prep Ahead: Slice the sausage and chop all the vegetables in advance for quicker cooking.
• Taste and Adjust: Add more broth, herbs, or a splash of vinegar if it needs a flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I freeze this stew?
  Yes—let it cool, then freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Do I need to rinse canned lentils?
  Yes, drain and rinse them before adding for best flavor and texture.

Related Recipes

• Sausage Pasta Bake: Meaty, cheesy, and cozy—this bake brings big comfort in one pan, using family-friendly flavors.
• Chicken Fried Rice: A fast, one-pan meal that helps use up leftovers while giving you total control over seasoning.

Food Safety Guidelines

• Cook Sausage Thoroughly: If using raw sausage, cook to an internal temp of 160°F before adding.
• Cool Before Storing: Let stew cool before sealing in containers to avoid condensation.
• Reheat Safely: Heat until steaming hot (165°F) before serving leftovers.