Easy Bacon Lentil Soup
This hearty, and easy Bacon Lentil Soup recipe combines the smokiness of bacon with the earthy flavor of lentils for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a cozy evening, this soup is both flavorful and filling.
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Get ready to dive into a bowl of comfort with this hearty and delicious Bacon Lentil Soup!
Packed with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, the earthiness of lentils, and a colorful array of veggies, this soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s the perfect companion for lunch or dinner when you’re craving something that’s not just tasty but also super satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for a fuss-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a nourishing option to serve your family or a quick fix for your weekday lunch, this Bacon Lentil Soup has got you covered. It’s brimming with wholesome ingredients that are good for you while still delivering that comforting, hearty vibe we all love in a soup. Trust me, one bowl of this goodness and you’ll be hooked! So, let’s dive into everything you need to know about this fantastic recipe.
What is Bacon Lentil Soup?
Bacon Lentil Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the smoky, salty flavor of bacon and the rich, nutty taste of lentils. This soup also features a medley of fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, along with some fragrant herbs and spices. The result is a bowl of deliciousness that’s perfect for warming you up from the inside out!
What makes this Stove Top Lentil Soup Healthy?
This soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, thanks to the lentils and veggies. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and are rich in iron, folate, and other vital nutrients. The vegetables add an extra punch of vitamins and minerals, while the use of broth keeps the soup light but flavorful. And, believe it or not, even bacon can fit into a healthy diet in moderation—it adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
RELATED: Slow Cooker, Low Carb, Zucchini Soup – Wholesome and hearty, this Slow Cooker Low Carb Zucchini Soup boasts a medley of lean ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all simmered to perfection for 6 hours to create a nourishing and satisfying fall delight.
Why you’ll love this easy Bacon Lentil Soup recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just over an hour from start to finish, with minimal prep time.
- Flavorful: The combination of smoked paprika, thyme, and bacon makes for an irresistible flavor.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from lentils and bacon, plus plenty of veggies, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s a meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze some for those busy nights when you need a quick and healthy meal.
What tools do you need to make this soup?
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- A slotted spoon
- A sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A stirring spoon
What ingredients do you need to make this Bacon Lentil Soup recipe?
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cans (10 oz) diced tomatoes with chiles
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make Easy Stove Top Bacon Lentil Soup
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften.
- Add the Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the rinsed lentils, chicken or vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Finish Up: Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with the cooked bacon and chopped parsley.
Make this Bacon Lentil Soup, then check out my Easy One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup, my Crockpot Southwest Chicken Soup (Chili’s Copycat) and more of my hearty soup recipes.
TIPS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the bacon and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I use different types of lentils?
Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe because they hold their shape well. Red lentils tend to break down and create a different texture.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Can I freeze this soup?
Definitely! Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How can I add more veggies to this soup?
Feel free to toss in some spinach, kale, or diced potatoes for extra nutrition.
How do I store leftovers of Bacon Lentil Soup
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s warmed through. If you plan to freeze it, be sure to let it cool completely first. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
This Bacon Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. So, grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll love every spoonful!
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Easy Stove Top Bacon Lentil Soup Recipe
INGREDIENTS
- 6 slices of bacon (chopped)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils (rinsed)
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cans (10 oz diced tomatoes with chiles)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish))
DIRECTIONS
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed lentils, chicken or vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with the cooked bacon and chopped parsley.
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