Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup— 🥣✨ Craving a taste of the beloved Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup without leaving the comfort of your home?
Say hello to our Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup recipe! 😋🍲
This hearty and flavorful soup perfectly blends Italian-inspired spices, savory sausage, and wholesome lentils that will warm your soul.
Join us on a culinary adventure as we recreate the comforting flavors of Carrabba’s in the convenience of your Instant Pot. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this homemade delight!
If you are looking for something to serve this with, I always reach for my Air Fryer Corn Muffins or Air Fryer Cornbread. Both are very easy to cook up and make a great side.
If you are looking for even more soup recipes, head over to ForktoSpoon.com, and look at all of the soup recipes, some of my favorites are Instant Pot Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar and, of course, a very classic Instant Pot Tomato Soup.
Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup
Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup is a beloved dish known for its rich and comforting flavors. This Italian-inspired soup combines the robust taste of savory sausage with the wholesome goodness of lentils, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices, along with a tomato-based broth, adds depth and complexity to each spoonful, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the warmth and comfort of Italian cuisine.
One of the hallmarks of Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup is its ability to deliver nourishment and indulgence. Whether you’re seeking a bowl of hearty comfort on a chilly day or looking to savor the authentic flavors of Italy, this soup offers a delightful combination of ingredients and a taste that lingers long after the last bite. Whether enjoyed at a Carrabba’s restaurant or recreated at home, this soup is a testament to the culinary magic that can be achieved with simple, quality ingredients.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
You’ll absolutely adore this Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup recipe for a multitude of reasons:
- Authentic Flavor: This recipe faithfully replicates the incredible flavors of Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup, allowing you to enjoy the restaurant-quality taste in the comfort of your home.
- Instant Pot Convenience: The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, significantly reducing the time required to prepare this hearty soup without compromising taste or texture.
- Wholesome Ingredients: It features wholesome ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and Italian sausage, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
- Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your personal preferences, whether you prefer it spicier, milder, or with added vegetables.
- Perfect Comfort Food: This soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering warmth and nourishment on chilly days or whenever you crave a satisfying, heartwarming meal.
- Leftovers Welcome: Like many soups, it often tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or for freezing and enjoying at a later time.
- Italian-Inspired Delight: If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, this soup encapsulates the essence of Italian flavors with its blend of herbs, spices, sausage, and lentils.
- Impressive for Guests: Serve this soup at gatherings or special occasions, and your guests will be impressed by the depth of flavor and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a hearty appetizer, a satisfying main course, or as a side dish alongside your favorite Italian entrees.
In summary, this Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup recipe allows you to relish the authentic taste of Carrabba’s iconic soup without leaving your home. Its convenience, flavor, and adaptability make it a winning choice for both experienced home cooks and beginners. Get ready to experience the heartwarming joy of a bowl of this delicious soup!
Ingredients Needed To Make Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup
Soup is one of the easiest and most satisfying meals to make. This Copycat Instant Pot Sausage and Lentil Soup recipe is hearty, healthy, and takes only ten minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Plus, it only requires six simple ingredients you probably already have! Let’s get started!
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.
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Olive Oil: Olive oil serves as the base for sautéing the aromatic ingredients, adding a rich and fruity undertone to the soup’s flavor profile.
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Italian Sausage: Italian sausage infuses the soup with its bold and savory taste, contributing to the hearty, meaty character of the dish.
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Onion: Onions provide a sweet and savory depth to the soup, enhancing its overall flavor and aroma as they caramelize in the olive oil.
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Carrots: Carrots offer a subtle sweetness, vibrant color, and a delightful crunch, adding flavor and texture to the soup.
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Celery: Celery brings a fresh, earthy note to the soup, contributing to its aromatic bouquet of flavors and providing a pleasant crunch.
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Tomato Paste: Tomato paste lends a rich, concentrated tomato flavor to the soup, creating a robust base for the broth.
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Diced Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add a bright and tangy element to the soup and a chunky texture that complements the lentils and sausage.
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Minced Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the soup with a pungent, aromatic essence, intensifying the overall savory profile.
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Spices (Bay Leaf, Rosemary, Thyme): These spices bring depth and complexity to the soup, with the bay leaf adding a subtle earthiness, rosemary contributing a piney aroma, and thyme imparting a delicate herbal touch.
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Lentils: Lentils are the heart of the soup, providing protein, fiber, and a lovely earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
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Chicken Broth: Chicken broth forms the flavorful liquid base of the soup, delivering a savory umami note and enhancing all the ingredients’ natural tastes while ensuring a rich and satisfying broth.
How To Make Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup
Making Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup is a delightful and convenient process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this hearty and flavorful dish:
Sauté Sausage: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil, and when it’s hot, add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook it until browned about 5 minutes. Remove any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the Instant Pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes to enhance its flavor and reduce any raw taste.
Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, bay leaf, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Combine Lentils and Diced Tomatoes: Stir in the lentils and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Mix everything together.
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Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the broth, ensuring it covers all the ingredients. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
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Pressure Cook: Cancel the sauté function, secure the Instant Pot lid, and set it to pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes. Ensure the steam release valve is sealed.
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Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes. Carefully open the steam release valve afterward to release any remaining pressure.
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Season and Serve: Open the Instant Pot lid and remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well.
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Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
With this recipe, you’ll enjoy a bowl of Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup that captures the comforting flavors of the restaurant classic, all made easily and conveniently in your own kitchen. It’s a heartwarming and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Variations
While the Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup is delicious, you can always get creative with variations to suit your taste preferences. Here are some recipe variations to consider:
- Spicy Italian Sausage: If you love a bit of heat, use spicy Italian sausage instead of the mild version. It will add a delightful kick to your soup.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for flavor and nutrition.
- Sausage Substitutes: Experiment with different sausage varieties, such as chicken or turkey sausage, for a leaner option. Or try a plant-based link for a vegetarian or vegan twist.
- Fresh Herbs: Instead of dried herbs use fresh rosemary and thyme for a more vibrant and aromatic flavor profile. Adjust the quantities, as fresh herbs are more potent than dried.
- Smoked Sausage: Swap out the Italian sausage for smoked sausage for a smoky twist on the classic recipe.
- Greens: Add a handful of fresh spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last few minutes of cooking to incorporate some leafy greens and boost the soup’s nutrition.
- Parmesan Rind: If you have a Parmesan cheese rind on hand, toss it into the Instant Pot while cooking for added depth of flavor. Just remove it before serving.
- Red Lentils: While the original recipe uses green or brown lentils, you can use red lentils for a slightly different texture and a quicker cooking time.
- Creamy Variation: If you prefer a creamy soup, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half after cooking. This will create a luscious, creamy texture.
- Lemon Zest: Add a touch of brightness by stirring in some freshly grated lemon zest just before serving. It will provide a lovely citrus aroma and flavor.
- Grain Additions: Add a small amount of pasta (like ditalini or orzo) or rice for a heartier soup. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
These variations allow you to personalize the Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup to your liking and create exciting new flavors while maintaining the essence of the beloved classic. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create a perfect soup that suits your taste buds.
Pro Tips
To achieve the best results when making Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup, consider these pro tips:
- Sauté for Flavor: Take the time to sauté the sausage, onions, carrots, celery, and tomato paste at the beginning. Sautéing not only builds flavor but also enhances the overall depth of the soup.
- Choose Quality Sausage: Select high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can adjust the spice level by choosing mild or spicy sausage, depending on your preference.
- Deglaze the Pot: After sautéing, use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the Instant Pot. This will infuse the soup with those flavorful caramelized remnants.
- Rinse Lentils: Under cold water before adding them to the pot. This removes excess starch and prevents the soup from becoming too thick.
- Herb Choices: Experiment with different herb combinations to suit your taste. Fresh herbs can be added at the end of the cooking process for freshness, while dried herbs are ideal for infusing flavors throughout the cooking time.
- Natural Release: Allow for a natural pressure release after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld further while preventing any potential splattering or foaming when releasing the pressure manually.
- Thicken or Thin as Needed: If your soup is too thick, you can add more broth to achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer on the sauté function for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your liking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup after cooking and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that flavors can intensify as the soup sits, so it’s best to start with a conservative amount of salt.
- Garnish Creatively: Consider garnishing your soup with grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of pesto, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor and presentation.
- Make It Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully, so consider making a large batch and storing it for future meals. It’s often even tastier the next day.
By following these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup to a restaurant-quality dish that’s bursting with flavor and warmth. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting Italian-inspired soup!
Faq’s
What is Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup? Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup is a popular dish served at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, known for its rich, savory flavor. It features Italian sausage, lentils, vegetables, and a blend of herbs and spices in a delicious broth.
Can I make Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup at home? You can make a homemade version of Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup using a recipe replicating the restaurant’s flavors. Many people enjoy making this soup in their own kitchens.
What type of lentils are used in the soup? Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup typically uses green or brown lentils. These varieties hold their shape well during cooking and provide a nice texture to the soup.
Can I use a different type of sausage in the soup? While Italian sausage is the traditional choice, you can experiment with different varieties to suit your taste. Options include mild, spicy chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausages for a vegetarian version.
How do I store and reheat leftover Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup? Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low to medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated.
Can I freeze Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup? Yes, you can freeze the soup for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it as mentioned above.
What are some good side dishes for Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup? Common side dishes include crusty bread, garlic bread, a simple green salad, or a side of steamed vegetables. These pair well with the soup’s flavors.
Can I make Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup in a slow cooker or on the stovetop? Yes, you can adapt the slow cooker or stovetop recipe by adjusting the cooking times and methods accordingly. However, using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker allows for quicker preparation.
Is Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup gluten-free? The soup can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients, including the sausage and broth, are gluten-free. Check the labels of packaged products to verify their gluten-free status.
Can I make a vegetarian or vegan version of Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup? You can create a vegetarian or vegan version by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, choose a plant-based or vegetarian sausage alternative.
More Instant Pot Recipes
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Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup
Description
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery , diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup dried green , rinsed and drained
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Sausage: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil, and when it’s hot, add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the Instant Pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes to enhance its flavor and reduce any raw taste.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, bay leaf, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Combine Lentils and Diced Tomatoes: Stir in the lentils and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Mix everything together.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers all the ingredients. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Pressure Cook: Cancel the sauté function, secure the Instant Pot lid, and set it to pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes. Ensure the steam release valve is sealed.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes. Carefully open the steam release valve afterward to release any remaining pressure.
- Season and Serve: Open the Instant Pot lid, and remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve it hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Equipment
- Instant Pot Pressure Cooker, Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker
Nutrition
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