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Hearty Lentil and Bacon Soup

A quick and comforting soup packed with protein and fiber, featuring savory bacon and hearty lentils, perfect for busy weekdays.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 1 cup lentils (green or brown, your pick!)
  • 4 slices bacon, diced because bacon makes everything better!
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth use homemade if you're extra fancy
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish optional, but it makes it look fancy!

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large pot, over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings behind. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Pour in the lentils and broth, and add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat.
  5. Let the soup simmer for about 30–35 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
  6. Stir in the crispy bacon pieces and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and enjoy your hearty masterpiece.

Notes

This soup tastes even better the next day. Feel free to add spinach or kale for extra nutrition. Beans can be used as a substitute for lentils, and smoked turkey can replace bacon for a smoky flavor.