Hearty & Flavorful Bacon Lentil Soup: Your Ultimate One-Pot Comfort Meal
Bacon and Lentil Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. This exceptionally hearty and deeply flavorful dish masterfully combines the irresistible smoky richness of crispy bacon with the wholesome, earthy comfort of tender lentils. Perfect for those brisk autumn evenings, chilly winter days, or any time you crave a genuinely warm and satisfying embrace, this soup delivers both deliciousness and a feeling of nostalgic comfort. It’s a culinary hug in a bowl, promising to chase away the cold and nourish both body and soul.
Growing up, lentil soup was a constant presence in my home, a testament to its nutritional value and comforting simplicity. These tiny legumes, often overlooked, are true powerhouses, packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. This makes a classic lentil soup incredibly satisfying on its own, but the addition of bacon elevates it to an entirely new level of deliciousness, transforming it into an unforgettable hearty lentil soup.
Adding smoky, crispy bacon to this wholesome lentil soup contributes a luxurious, velvety richness that harmonizes all the other flavors beautifully. Beyond the inherent savory taste, bacon also introduces a delightful textural contrast and a deep, complex smoky flavor profile that simply can’t be replicated. This hearty bacon lentil soup is a true comfort food masterpiece, especially because it’s prepared entirely in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze and truly perfect for a cold winter’s night. It’s an easy and comforting way to bring gourmet flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]
Ingredient Notes for the Best Bacon Lentil Soup
Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to mastering this delicious bacon lentil soup. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe sing:
- Lentils – For this hearty lentil soup, I specifically selected brown lentils. They are truly ideal for soups because they boast a mild, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Unlike some other varieties, brown lentils soften wonderfully when cooked but still manage to hold their shape, giving the soup a satisfying texture without becoming completely mushy. They are also the most commonly available variety in most grocery stores, making them a convenient and reliable choice for your easy one-pot soup. While green or French (Puy) lentils retain more bite and are better suited for salads, and red or yellow lentils tend to break down completely (great for pureed soups or curries), brown lentils strike the perfect balance for this comforting dish.
- Carrots, Celery, and Onion – This classic culinary trio, famously known as mirepoix, forms the fundamental aromatic base for countless dishes, especially for a rich and flavorful soup like this one. Diced and slowly cooked, these vegetables release their natural sugars and flavors, creating a sweet and savory foundation at the very beginning of the cooking process. This technique, a cornerstone of French cuisine, is essential for seasoning soups, stews, sauces, and braises, contributing depth and complexity to the overall taste profile of your bacon lentil soup.
- Bacon – The star of this dish, bacon serves multiple crucial functions. As it cooks, it renders its flavorful fat, which then becomes the perfect medium for sautéing the mirepoix, infusing them with a rich, savory essence. Beyond the fat, the crispy bits of bacon provide a textural contrast and a profound, smoky, and salty meatiness that utterly transforms the simple lentil soup into a truly decadent meal. I prefer using thick-cut bacon for a more substantial texture and flavor, but regular bacon works perfectly fine too – just adjust cooking time slightly. You can find more bacon recipes here and even a deep smoky bacon chutney!
- Tomato Sauce – A good quality tomato sauce, such as Pomi, adds a rich, deep umami flavor and a pleasant acidity that brightens the entire soup. It contributes to the soup’s body and color, creating a more robust and satisfying mouthfeel. This simple addition is key to balancing the smoky bacon and earthy lentils.
- Bay Leaves – These unassuming dried leaves are crucial for adding a subtle, almost medicinal aroma and a delicate, herbal undertone to the soup. They help to balance the overall richness of the bacon and the acidity of the tomato sauce, adding another layer of complexity to the flavor without overpowering it. Remember to remove them before serving!
- Thyme – For the best flavor, fresh thyme is highly recommended. Its delicate, woody, and slightly floral notes pair wonderfully with lentils and bacon. If fresh isn’t available, dried thyme can be used, but use about a third of the amount as its flavor is more concentrated.
- Stock – The choice of stock significantly impacts the final flavor of your bacon lentil soup. I typically use high-quality chicken stock for a robust base, but vegetable or beef stock are excellent alternatives. Vegetable stock will make the soup more vegetarian-friendly (if you omit bacon or use a plant-based alternative), while beef stock will lend an even richer, deeper flavor profile. Ensure you have extra on hand for adjusting consistency as the lentils cook.
- Calabrian Chili Paste or Spread – For those who enjoy a little heat, this spicy condiment, made from crushed Calabrian chili peppers, oil, salt, and sometimes vinegar, adds a fantastic, nuanced kick. It brings a fruity, fiery element that enhances the soup’s depth without being overwhelmingly spicy. I was lucky enough to bring a jar back from Italy, but you can easily find it online or in specialty Italian stores. If you don’t have it, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes makes a good substitute, or simply omit it if you prefer no spice.
- Balsamic Vinegar – A drizzle of good quality balsamic vinegar at the end is a game-changer. It provides a touch of acidity and sweetness, cutting through the richness and brightening all the flavors in the soup, much like it does in my Sicilian eggplant caponata. A splash of fresh lemon juice can also achieve a similar balancing effect if you don’t have balsamic on hand.
Always refer to the detailed recipe card for precise quantities and additional tips to create this wholesome lentil recipe. High-quality ingredients are the foundation of any truly delicious dish, and this bacon lentil soup is no exception.
How to Make Easy One-Pot Bacon Lentil Soup: Step-by-Step
This easy one-pot bacon lentil soup comes together with straightforward steps. Follow this visual, step-by-step tutorial, and remember that full, detailed instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
1. Cook the Bacon: Begin by heating a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped thick-cut bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned and crispy. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes. The goal is to render out the fat and achieve a rich, golden color. Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot – this is where all the initial flavor for your hearty lentil soup will come from. Remember to reserve a small portion of this crispy bacon for a garnish later!
2. Sauté the Mirepoix: With the bacon removed, reduce the heat slightly if necessary to medium-low, ensuring you have about a tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot. If not, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion, stirring well to coat them in the flavorful fat. Cook these aromatic vegetables gently for about 5-7 minutes, until they are softened but not browned. This slow cooking extracts their sweetness and forms the fundamental flavor base. Then, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Toast Lentils & Add Liquids: Increase the heat back to medium. Add the rinsed brown lentils to the pot and toast them for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously. This step helps to bring out their nutty flavor. Return the majority of the cooked bacon (remembering to reserve some for garnish) to the pot. Pour in 5 cups of your chosen stock (chicken, beef, or vegetable), making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any flavorful browned bits (known as “fond”) stuck there. This fond adds incredible depth to your hearty bacon lentil soup.
4. Simmer the Soup: Next, stir in the tomato sauce, bay leaves, and fresh thyme. Add ½ teaspoon of Kosher or fine sea salt, remembering you can always adjust seasoning later. Give everything a good stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, immediately reduce the heat to low, keeping the pot covered or partially covered, and let it simmer gently. This slow simmer is crucial for the lentils to cook evenly and absorb all the wonderful flavors.
5. Continue Simmering: Allow the soup to simmer for approximately 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The key is to let the lentils become soft and tender, but still hold their shape – avoid overcooking them to a mushy consistency unless that’s your preference. Throughout this process, monitor the liquid level; if the soup becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add more stock (the remaining 1 cup or more as needed) to reach your desired consistency. This ensures a rich, flavorful broth for your ultimate cozy meal.
6. Finish and Serve: Once the lentils are perfectly tender, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully fish out and discard the bay leaves, as their flavor can become too dominant if left in. Stir in the Calabrian chili paste (or crushed red pepper flakes for a milder kick) and finish with a generous drizzle of good quality balsamic vinegar. This final touch of acidity brightens the flavors and brings everything into perfect balance. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve your hot, flavorful bacon lentil soup immediately, topped with the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of shaved or grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese for an extra layer of savory indulgence.
This easy one-pot bacon lentil soup is a complete meal on its own, offering both heartiness and incredible depth of flavor. Enjoy this ultimate cozy meal!
👩🍳 Pro Tip for Maximum Flavor
Don’t forget to reserve some of that perfectly crispy bacon to garnish your individual bowls of soup just before serving. Not only does it add a beautiful visual appeal, but the added crunch and concentrated smoky flavor are truly irresistible, elevating every spoonful of this hearty lentil soup!
Substitutions and Variations for Your Cozy Bacon Lentil Soup
While this bacon lentil soup recipe is perfect as is, it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with these substitutions and variations to tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand:
- Prosciutto or Ham – For a slightly different meaty flavor, you can easily substitute bacon with diced prosciutto or cubed ham. Prosciutto will offer a saltier, more delicate cured pork flavor, while ham provides a milder, sweeter note. Sauté them briefly to render some fat and develop their flavor before proceeding with the mirepoix step.
- Add More Vegetables – To boost the nutritional content and add more texture, consider incorporating other vegetables. Fresh spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last 5-10 minutes of simmering, allowing them to wilt gently. Sliced mushrooms can be sautéed with the mirepoix for an umami depth, or diced bell peppers and zucchini could also be added for extra color and nutrients.
- Stock Options – The type of stock you choose heavily influences the final flavor. While chicken stock offers a balanced base, beef stock will yield an even richer, deeper flavor, enhancing the savory notes of the bacon. For a vegetarian version (omitting bacon), a high-quality vegetable stock is essential to build a flavorful base.
- Fresh Herbs – Don’t be shy about playing with other fresh herbs. Beyond thyme, sprigs of rosemary or oregano can add a more rustic, Mediterranean profile. A garnish of fresh basil or parsley at the end will brighten the flavors and add a fresh aromatic touch. Consider adding a bay leaf or two along with other herbs during the simmering stage.
- Make it Vegetarian/Vegan – To adapt this recipe for dietary needs, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil or another plant-based fat for sautéing. Ensure you use vegetable stock instead of chicken or beef. For a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
- Spice Level Adjustments – If Calabrian chili paste is too spicy, or you can’t find it, start with a smaller amount of crushed red pepper flakes (⅛ to ¼ teaspoon) and increase to taste. For a milder soup, omit the chili entirely. For those who love heat, feel free to add more!
How to Serve This Ultimate Cozy Bacon Lentil Soup
This hearty bacon lentil soup is incredibly satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this ultimate cozy meal:
- With Crusty Bread: My absolute favorite way to serve this soup is alongside a generous slice of warm, crusty bread. A good sourdough or a rustic baguette is perfect for sopping up every last bit of the flavorful, rich broth.
- Over Grains: For an even more substantial meal, serve your bacon lentil soup over a bed of fluffy rice, creamy polenta, or nutritious quinoa. The grains absorb the soup’s delicious liquid, turning it into a wonderfully hearty and satisfying bowl.
- With a Side Salad: To add a refreshing contrast, pair the rich soup with a light and crisp side salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette or a vibrant beet salad with tarragon vinaigrette would be an excellent choice.
- Garnish Galore: Beyond the reserved crispy bacon and shaved Parmesan or Gruyere cheese, consider other toppings. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a creamy tang, while a swirl of pesto or fresh chopped parsley can introduce bright, herbaceous notes.
- Alongside a Sandwich: For a classic combo, a warm, comforting cup of this soup is perfect with half of a savory sandwich, like a grilled cheese or even a simple turkey sandwich.
Storage & Reheating Tips for Your Bacon Lentil Soup
One of the best things about this hearty bacon lentil soup is how well it stores, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping. You can enjoy the delicious flavors again and again with these simple storage and reheating tips:
Refrigerator Storage: Leftover bacon lentil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. As it sits, the flavors often deepen and meld even further, sometimes tasting even better the next day!
Reheating: To reheat, simply transfer your desired portion of soup to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through completely. Lentil soup can thicken quite a bit in the refrigerator due to the starch from the lentils absorbing more liquid. If your soup is too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or extra chicken, beef, or vegetable stock to thin it down to your preferred consistency.
Freezing: This wholesome lentil recipe also freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to enjoy a cozy meal even on the busiest of days. First, allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature. Then, portion the lentil soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty Ziploc/plastic bags. If using bags, lay them flat on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then store them upright to save space. This method allows for quick thawing. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat from frozen on the stovetop, adding liquid as needed to reach the desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Lentil Soup
For this hearty bacon lentil soup, brown lentils are absolutely ideal. They are prized for their mild, earthy flavor and their ability to soften beautifully during cooking while still maintaining their shape. This ensures a delightful texture in your soup – tender but not completely broken down. While overcooking them can lead to a mushier consistency (which some prefer!), a slight texture is generally desired. It’s best to avoid green lentils or French (Puy) lentils for a creamy soup like this, as they tend to hold their shape much more firmly and are better suited for salads where a distinct bite is desired. Lastly, yellow or red lentils, often used in curries and Middle Eastern dishes, can also be used in soup, but they typically break down entirely, creating a much thicker, almost pureed consistency, which is a different style of lentil soup altogether.
Absolutely not! One of the many conveniences of cooking with brown lentils, especially for a quick and easy one-pot soup, is that they do not require any pre-soaking. This saves a significant amount of preparation time. All you need to do is give them a quick rinse under cool running water to remove any dust or small debris that might be present. Once rinsed, they are ready to be added directly to the pot, where they will cook up perfectly tender and absorb all the delicious flavors of the bacon and aromatics.
The ideal consistency of lentil soup is largely a matter of personal preference, but generally, lentil soup is known for being a hearty and relatively thick soup. It’s often robust enough to be a main course. However, you have complete control over its thickness. If you prefer a lighter, thinner soup, simply add more broth or water during the simmering process, or when reheating. If you desire an even thicker, creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup. This can be done either carefully in a standard blender (venting the lid to release steam) or directly in the pot with a handheld immersion blender. Blend a small amount until smooth, then stir it back into the unblended soup for a richer, fuller body without losing the satisfying texture of whole lentils. This flexibility allows you to customize your ultimate cozy meal exactly how you like it.
Perfect Pairings for Your Bacon Lentil Soup
Elevate your meal with these delicious accompaniments that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this hearty bacon lentil soup. Serve with:
- Smoked Gouda and Chive Scones
- Heirloom Tomato Caprese Salad
- Golden Beet Salad with Tarragon Vinaigrette
- Kielbasa Reuben Sandwich
Did you make this delicious bacon lentil soup recipe? I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Please take a moment to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating with a comment right below the recipe card, sharing your thoughts and any personal touches you added. If you snap a photo of your cozy creation, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @brunchandbatter. Your feedback and photos truly make my day!
📖 Recipe: Hearty One-Pot Bacon Lentil Soup
Bacon and Lentil Soup
Pin Recipe
Equipment
-
1 large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 4-6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped (½ inch dice)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed
- ½ cup diced carrot (from about 2 medium carrots) ½ inch dice
- ½ cup diced celery (from about 2 medium celery ribs) ½ inch dice
- 1 cup diced yellow onion (approximately 1 medium onion) ½ inch dice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (16 oz) dried brown lentils, rinsed see note on lentil type
- 5-6 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, divided
- 2 cups (17.64 ounce box) tomato sauce (such as Pomi)
- 2 dried bay leaves
- ½ tablespoon fresh thyme
- ½ teaspoon Kosher or fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- ½ tablespoon Calabrian chili paste/spread or ¼-½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to taste
- drizzle of good balsamic vinegar
- parmesan or gruyere cheese for serving optional, for garnish
Instructions
-
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s beautifully browned and starting to crisp, which typically takes about 6-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful bacon grease in the pot. Remember to reserve a small amount of the crispy bacon for garnishing your soup later.4-6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped (½ inch dice)
-
Keeping the heat on medium, add the diced carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Cook these aromatics until they are soft but not browned, usually around 5-6 minutes. If needed, add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the pot to ensure proper sautéing. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Finally, add the rinsed brown lentils to the pot and toast them for about 2 minutes, stirring to coat them in the flavorful pan drippings and release their nutty aroma.½ cup diced carrot (from about 2 medium carrots), ½ cup diced celery (from about 2 medium celery ribs), 1 cup diced yellow onion (approximately 1 medium onion), 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 lb (16 oz) dried brown lentils, rinsed, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed
-
Return the majority of the cooked bacon to the pot (remembering to keep some aside for garnish). Add 5 cups of chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits, which add immense flavor. Stir in the tomato sauce, bay leaves, fresh thyme, and ½ teaspoon of Kosher or fine sea salt. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a full boil.5-6 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, divided, 2 cups (17.64 ounce box) tomato sauce (such as Pomi), 2 dried bay leaves, ½ tablespoon fresh thyme, ½ teaspoon Kosher or fine sea salt, plus more to taste
-
Once the soup begins to boil, reduce the heat immediately to low. Simmer the soup, partially covered, for 50-60 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still retain a slight bite (not mushy). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup becomes too thick during simmering, gradually add the remaining 1 cup of stock, or more if needed, to reach your desired consistency.
-
When the lentils are perfectly cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully retrieve and discard the dried bay leaves. Stir in the Calabrian chili paste or crushed red pepper for a gentle kick, and finish with a drizzle of good quality balsamic vinegar to brighten and balance the flavors. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve your hearty bacon lentil soup immediately, piping hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon and/or shaved Parmesan or Gruyere cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness.½ tablespoon Calabrian chili paste/spread, drizzle of good balsamic vinegar, parmesan or gruyere cheese for serving
Notes
- Lentil Choice: Brown lentils are highly recommended for this soup as they soften beautifully while maintaining their shape, providing a great texture. Overcooking can lead to a mushier consistency, which some enjoy. Avoid green or French (Puy) lentils as they hold their shape more firmly, making them better suited for salads. Yellow or red lentils break down completely and are best for pureed soups or curries.
- Storage: Store any leftover bacon lentil soup in well-sealed, lidded containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen!
- Freezing: This soup freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra stock or water if the consistency is too thick.
Nutrition*
*Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. Nutrition information can vary depending on many factors, such as products used, measurements and substitutions, therefore it is recommended that you obtain nutritional calculations based on your own finished recipe.