There’s something incredibly comforting about a big pot of lentil soup simmering on the stove. This easy homemade lentil soup recipe delivers all the warmth and nourishment you need on a chilly evening. It combines earthy lentils with savory aromatics and a medley of vegetables, making it the kind of meal that’s both cozy and packed with goodness.

It’s a weeknight hero, a budget-friendly staple, and a belly-filler all in one. Whether you serve it as a main dish with crusty bread or enjoy it as a starter, this lentil soup offers layers of flavor with just simple pantry ingredients. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and easy to make vegan with one small tweak.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Lentil Soup

This lentil soup doesn’t rely on cream or complicated steps to be rich and hearty. The lentils break down slightly during cooking, giving the broth a lovely thickness without needing anything extra. It’s easy to customize too—add greens, swap in sweet potatoes, or spice it up with a pinch of chili flakes.

Beyond its flavor, the soup is loaded with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it an ideal dish for meal prep or freezing in batches. It satisfies without being heavy, and you can have it on the table in under an hour.

What Kind of Lentils Should I Use?

For this recipe, brown or green lentils are best. They hold their shape while becoming tender and offer a nutty flavor that pairs well with the veggies and spices. Red lentils cook faster and break down more, creating a creamier texture—which you can absolutely try if you prefer that consistency. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.

Ingredients for the Easy Homemade Lentil Soup

Name: Easy Homemade Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

This soup comes together with common ingredients, and each plays a role in building its flavor and heartiness. The balance of vegetables, seasoning, and lentils creates a satisfying depth that only gets better the next day.

Olive oil for sautéing and richness.
Yellow onion as the aromatic foundation.
Carrots add natural sweetness and color.
Celery gives a savory depth and texture.
Garlic cloves for bold flavor.
Dried thyme adds herbal warmth.
Smoked paprika gives the soup an earthy, smoky edge.
Tomato paste deepens the broth and adds umami.
Brown or green lentils as the star ingredient.
Vegetable broth for a savory, plant-based base.
Bay leaf to infuse subtle flavor.
Salt and pepper for seasoning.
Lemon juice to brighten everything at the end.
Fresh parsley for a fresh finish.

How To Make the Easy Homemade Lentil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Stir in minced garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until everything smells fragrant.

Step 3: Add Lentils and Broth

Pour in the lentils, vegetable broth, and drop in the bay leaf. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in the lemon juice. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

How to Serve and Store Lentil Soup

This lentil soup makes about 6 hearty servings, perfect for a small family or a few days of easy meals. Serve it hot with slices of toasted sourdough or a warm pita on the side. You can also top it with a swirl of yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra richness.

Leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes very well—just portion it out into containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if it’s too thick.

What to Serve With Easy Homemade Lentil Soup?

Crusty Bread

A thick slice of rustic bread is perfect for dipping into the hearty broth.

Garlic Naan

Soft, buttery naan makes a flavorful and comforting addition.

Simple Green Salad

Balance the warm soup with a crisp salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized flavor complements the earthy lentils perfectly.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

A sweet and soft pairing that adds a pop of color to your plate.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Bright and tangy, it brings contrast and texture to your meal.

Classic Grilled Cheese

A gooey sandwich paired with warm soup is always a crowd-pleaser.

Roasted Asparagus and Potatoes

A wholesome veggie duo that rounds out a cozy lunch or dinner.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this lentil soup, there are plenty of other comforting dishes to explore:

Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is rich, cheesy, and packed with pasta goodness.
Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup brings Mediterranean brightness to your bowl.
Boilermaker Tailgate Chili is a bold, beefy classic full of spice and heartiness.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup gives you that creamy comfort in a bowl.
Creamy Broccoli Pasta works as a main or a side and is a weeknight favorite.