Name: Pressure Cooker Lentils and Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into ½ inch rounds; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoon olive oil

Hey y'all! If you're on the hunt for a hearty, flavorful meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, casual family gatherings, or those times you just want a warm, comforting bowl of goodness, this Pressure Cooker Lentils and Sausage recipe is for you. Juicy sausage, tender lentils, and a savory broth come together in a flash, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your bowl with pure comfort. Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

Ready in under 40 minutes thanks to the pressure cooker—perfect for busy evenings.
Packed with protein, fiber, and mouthwatering savory flavors.
One-pot cleanup means less mess and more time to enjoy.
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or sausage type.
Perfect for meal prep, as leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

1 pound (450g) smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups (300g) dried brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
4 cups (950ml) low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 bay leaf
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

Set your pressure cooker to the 'Sauté' setting. Add olive oil, then the sausage slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Lentils and Seasonings

Add lentils, chicken broth, thyme, smoked paprika, bay leaf, black pepper, and a pinch of salt to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Lock the lid in place and set the pressure cooker to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' on high pressure for 15 minutes.
When cooking time is finished, allow a 10-minute natural release, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

Open the lid, stir, and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper as desired. Remove bay leaf.
Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Notes

Be sure to rinse your lentils well to remove any dirt or debris for cleaner flavor.
Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the final dish.
For extra depth, brown the sausage thoroughly before adding veggies.

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth, adding extra veggies like mushrooms or bell pepper.
Spicy: Use spicy andouille sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Italian-style: Swap in Italian sausage and add a can of diced tomatoes for a zesty twist.

Required Equipment

Pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot)
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage Instructions

Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with warm crusty bread or a slice of buttered cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.
Pair with a simple green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette for added freshness.
Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.

Pro Tips

Check that your lentils are fresh—older lentils may take longer to cook and become mushy.
For thinner soup, add an extra half-cup of broth after cooking and stir well.
Remove the bay leaf before serving to prevent any bitter bites.

FAQ

Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown?: Red lentils cook much faster and may become mushy, so it’s best to stick to green or brown lentils for this recipe.
Can I double the recipe?: Yes! Just make sure your pressure cooker is large enough and do not fill it past the max capacity line.
Is this recipe gluten-free?: It can be! Just ensure your sausage is gluten-free and use gluten-free broth.