Lentil soup is one of those classic comfort foods that can warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal on a chilly evening or seeking something nutritious yet simple, this dish delivers on both fronts. What makes lentil soup especially great is its versatility-it can be adapted to suit just about any palate. But if you’re someone who loves the idea of adding some extra flavor and protein to the mix, then a lentil soup with meat might be your next go-to meal.
This easy lentil soup with meat recipe is quick to prepare, deeply satisfying, and packed with nutrients. The tender lentils combine beautifully with the savory meat, creating a bowl that’s both rich in flavor and texture. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Let’s break it down step-by-step and get you cooking!
Easy Lentil Soup With Meat Recipe
This recipe is super simple to put together but offers big flavors that will leave you coming back for more. The key here is to use basic ingredients that most people already have in their pantry, plus a bit of meat for extra depth. We’ll be using ground meat in this version-beef, turkey, or lamb are all good options. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients Needed
For a truly satisfying lentil soup with meat, here’s what you’ll need:
- Lentils (1 ½ cups): Green or brown lentils are the most common for soup. They’re hearty and hold their shape well during cooking.
- Ground meat (1 lb): Ground beef, turkey, or lamb are all great choices. Ground beef will give you a rich, meaty flavor, while turkey is leaner but still delicious. Lamb adds a distinct depth of flavor for those who love a more robust profile.
- Carrots (2 medium): Peeled and diced. They add a subtle sweetness and color.
- Onion (1 large): Chopped. A key aromatic that enhances the overall flavor base of the soup.
- Garlic (3 cloves): Minced. Fresh garlic provides a fragrant backdrop to the soup.
- Celery (2 stalks): Chopped. Celery adds texture and a hint of earthiness.
- Canned tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): These bring acidity and depth, balancing the richness of the meat.
- Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups): This is the liquid foundation for your soup. Broth is key to creating a well-rounded flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the veggies and meat.
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Spices
- Cumin (1 tsp): Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- Paprika (1 tsp): For a smoky undertone.
- Bay leaves (2): A subtle but crucial seasoning that adds depth.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh and bright finish to the dish.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to turn those ingredients into a delicious, comforting lentil soup with meat:
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Prep The Vegetables And Meat
- Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
- If you’re using ground beef, turkey, or lamb, make sure it’s broken up into small pieces.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Brown The Meat
- Add the ground meat to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up and stir it around, allowing it to brown evenly. This should take around 8-10 minutes. Make sure the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink.
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Add The Spices
- Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir everything together to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices.
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Simmer The Soup
- Pour in the canned tomatoes (with their juices) and the broth. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Add The Lentils
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and then add them to the pot. Stir to combine and ensure the lentils are submerged in the liquid.
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Continue Simmering
- Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
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Final Touches
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
- Remove the bay leaves and discard them before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredient Insights
- Lentils: Lentils are packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like folate, iron, and magnesium. They’re low in fat and provide long-lasting energy. Plus, they cook quickly compared to other legumes, making them perfect for soups.
- Ground Meat: The choice of meat here can really affect the overall flavor profile. Ground beef is hearty and rich, while turkey gives a leaner, lighter alternative. Lamb offers a unique, savory flavor that’s perfect for those who enjoy a more complex taste.
- Broth: The broth you choose impacts the final flavor of your soup. Chicken broth tends to add a mild, savory depth, while vegetable broth brings a cleaner, more neutral flavor. If you have homemade broth, even better-it’ll elevate the taste even more.
- Spices: The cumin and paprika in this recipe add warmth and complexity, while bay leaves offer a subtle, aromatic undertone that complements the richness of the meat. These spices are essential for creating that layered flavor profile.
Expert Tips
- Rinse your lentils: Always give your lentils a good rinse before cooking to remove any dirt or debris. Even though they’re often pre-cleaned, a quick rinse ensures they’re ready for cooking.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly, or cook it longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. On the other hand, if you like a more brothy soup, add a bit more liquid as it simmers.
- Let it sit: Like many soups, this lentil soup with meat often tastes better the next day. Letting it sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge allows the flavors to meld even further.
- Make it in a slow cooker: You can also make this soup in a slow cooker! Simply brown the meat and sauté the aromatics, then throw everything into the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the soup to bring some heat. This will balance beautifully with the earthy flavor of the lentils.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat altogether and use a vegetable broth with more beans, like kidney beans or chickpeas. You could even add some diced potatoes for added heartiness.
- Different meats: Instead of ground meat, you could use sausage or even shredded chicken for a twist. Sausage, particularly, will bring a spicy, flavorful dimension to the soup.
- Herb Variations: If parsley isn’t your thing, fresh cilantro or thyme are both great alternatives. Cilantro brings a fresh, citrusy bite, while thyme adds a subtle earthiness.
Final Words
This easy lentil soup with meat is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect balance of flavors-hearty lentils, savory meat, and a medley of aromatic vegetables. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adjust to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy.