Slow Cooker Lyonnais Sausage and Lentil Stew Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, consider searing the sausage in a pan until lightly browned on all sides before placing it into the slow cooker.

While this adds a small step, it creates a more complex flavor profile by caramelizing the exterior of the meat. If opting for this, ensure the pan is deglazed with a little broth to capture all the flavorful browned bits.

Adjust the consistency of the stew to personal preference by varying the amount of broth used. For a thinner, soup-like consistency, add an extra half-cup of broth.

Conversely, for a thicker, more concentrated stew, keep the liquid level just enough to cover the lentils. Always taste the broth before serving and adjust with a small amount of salt if necessary, keeping in mind the saltiness of the sausage.

Variations

• Smoky Sausage and Lentil Stew: Add a half-teaspoon of smoked paprika during the assembly phase to introduce a deep, smoky undertone that complements the earthy lentils and savory sausage perfectly.
• Herb-Infused Lentil Stew: Incorporate a sprig of fresh thyme along with the bay leaf to add a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the overall flavor profile of the stew.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the desired consistency.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before storing. Place the stew in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the absorption of other odors from the refrigerator.

Properly stored, the dish will remain at its best quality for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until it is heated through completely.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often meld and improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. Prepare the dish fully, allow it to cool, and store as directed.

The lentils will continue to absorb the broth while stored, so you may need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating to bring the consistency back to the desired level of moisture.

Serving ideas

Serve the stew in warm, shallow bowls to best showcase the presentation of the sliced sausage over the glossy lentils. A garnish of freshly chopped parsley or a light sprinkling of cracked black pepper can add a touch of color and brightness to the finished plate. Ensure the sausage slices are served warm to maintain their texture.

Pair this hearty stew with a simple green salad dressed with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the sausage. A slice of crusty, toasted baguette is also a perfect accompaniment, ideal for soaking up the flavorful juices and broth remaining at the bottom of the bowl. This combination creates a balanced and satisfying dining experience.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Lyonnais Sausage and Lentil Stew

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb Lyonnais sausage
• 1 1/2 cups green lentils, rinsed
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 small onion, studded with 1 whole clove
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the Lyonnais sausage in the center of the slow cooker. Scatter the rinsed green lentils and the diced carrots around the sausage. Push the clove-studded onion and the bay leaf into the mixture.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours until the lentils are tender and the sausage is cooked through to at least 160°F (71°C).
3. Carefully remove the sausage from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. Slice the sausage into rounds and serve over a portion of the warm, glossy lentils.

Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

480

Protein

24.5 g

Carbohydrates

38.2 g

Fat

26.8 g

Fiber

14.2 g

Sugar

2.5 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.