Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe

This Easy Lentil Potato Soup is everything you could wish for in a comforting bowl—hearty, flavorful, and ready in under an hour from start to finish. Packed with wholesome lentils, tender bites of potato, and a savory blend of herbs, this simple soup transforms pantry staples into a cozy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding the family or just looking for something nourishing to warm up the week, this recipe will quickly land a spot in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Vegetable Oil: For sautéing and building flavor at the start. Olive oil works beautifully, but any mild oil is fine.
• Garlic: Freshly minced brings earthy depth and a hint of sweetness as it cooks—essential for great soup!
• Onion: Adds savory undertones and natural sweetness. Yellow, white, or even shallots work in a pinch.
• Carrot: Lends a subtle sweetness and color to the soup, plus an extra layer of nutrition.
• Tomato Paste: For a blast of umami flavor and a lovely, rich color base.
• Tomato Sauce (Optional): Adds more body and a gentle tomato tang—use if you want a slightly richer broth.
• Lentils: The heart of the soup. Any variety works, but a mix means wonderful texture—green for structure, red or split for a silkier finish, and black for nuttiness.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold, Russet, or whatever you have—just be sure to cut them into bite-size pieces for evenly tender bites.
• Salt: Absolutely essential for drawing out natural flavors. Season as you go!
• Black Pepper: A little heat to balance all the other notes.
• Thyme: This herb brings a gentle earthiness that pairs perfectly with potatoes and lentils.
• Oregano: Adds that classic, comforting aroma reminiscent of Mediterranean soups.
• Water: The liquid base—use vegetable broth if you want even more flavor.

Note: All ingredients are easily adjustable—don’t be afraid to tweak to suit your taste or pantry!

Variations

Love to change things up or have different ingredients on hand? Here are some ideas to make this soup your own:

• Add Greens: Throw in handfuls of spinach or kale right at the end for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a warming kick.
• Switch the Potatoes: Sweet potatoes make a lovely sweet-savory variation.
• Boost with Protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or white beans for an even more robust meal.
• Go Creamy: Blend a third of the soup for a creamy texture or swirl in a spoonful of coconut milk at the end.

How to Make Easy Lentil Potato Soup

Step 1: Start with the Aromatics

Heat your vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onions and let them sizzle just for a minute, enough to release their aroma. Next, toss in the garlic and carrot. Stir and let them cook together for 2-3 minutes—this short sauté brings out their sweetness and builds the soup’s backbone.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Base and Add Lentils

Spoon in the tomato paste (and the optional tomato sauce, if you like a richer depth). Give it a quick stir, letting the tomato flavors caramelize just a bit—it makes such a difference! Pile in your chosen lentils and mix everything together so each bit is coated in flavor.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Liquid

Scatter your chopped potatoes into the pot, then pour over the water. Scrape up any delicious bits that might have caught on the bottom. Now, season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Cover your pot, bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 25-35 minutes, until the lentils are juicy-tender and the potatoes are soft but not falling apart. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks, and feel free to add more water if you like a thinner broth.

Step 5: Final Taste and Serve

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning—sometimes an extra sprinkle of salt or pepper is just what it needs. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and get ready for a truly cozy meal.

How to Serve

Ladle this soup hot into your favorite bowls and let it shine on its own, or try one of these pairings:

• Crusty Bread: The ultimate sidekick—dip a rustic slice into the fragrant broth.
• Side Salad: A tangy green salad balances the hearty soup beautifully.
• Grated Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan or crumbled feta on top is divine.
• Herb Garnish: Chopped parsley, cilantro, or a swirl of olive oil gives a finishing flourish.
• Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon on the side for a fresh, zippy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the soup completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to four days without losing its marvelous texture or flavor.

Freezing

Yes, this soup freezes exceptionally well! Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It’ll hold up for three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Rewarm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s thickened in storage, splash in a bit of water or broth as it heats. For a quick lunch, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a simple, soul-warming meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying, this Easy Lentil Potato Soup truly checks all the boxes. Take a little time to savor the soothing kitchen aromas and don’t be afraid to make it your own—it’s the perfect canvas for creative tweaks. Give it a try, and let this flavorful, fuss-free soup become a regular highlight in your weeknight meal plan.

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