There’s nothing quite like coming home to the inviting aroma of a home-cooked meal simmering away in the slow cooker. I remember a dreary winter evening when I decided to whip up a pot of Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup using just a handful of ingredients. To my surprise, the result was a creamy, smoky delight that quickly became a family favorite. This recipe not only fits perfectly into my weeknight routine, but it also transforms humble split peas into a comforting bowl of joy.
As the split peas soften and embrace the flavors of ham and fresh vegetables, you’ll find yourself enjoying a heartwarming, nourishing dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Best of all? You don’t even need to soak the peas beforehand! With just 10 minutes of prep, this easy recipe lets the slow cooker do all the work so you can simply relax and await the delicious reward. Get ready to serve up a cozy, satisfying meal that your whole family will love!
Why is Split Pea Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting, this Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is perfect for chilly nights, turning simple ingredients into a warm and filling meal. Smoky flavors from the ham infuse the soup, making each spoonful a delight. Effortless preparation allows you to enjoy a homemade dish with just 10 minutes of hands-on time. Versatile options mean you can easily adapt it to fit dietary preferences, while its crowd-pleasing nature ensures everyone at the table will ask for seconds. Consider pairing it with crusty bread for a complete, heartwarming experience!
Split Pea Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Dried Split Green Peas – The star of the dish; no soak required—just ensure they’re submerged in liquid while cooking.
• Onion, Chopped – Adds sweetness and depth; feel free to swap with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Carrots, Peeled and Sliced – Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color; any variety works well.
• Celery, Sliced – Adds a fresh, crisp flavor; can be replaced with fennel for a different taste.
• Garlic, Chopped – Enhances overall flavor; fresh garlic is best for that extra punch.
• Cubed Ham – For a smoky, meaty flavor; use a ham bone for even more depth, or smoked paprika for a vegetarian alternative.
• Chicken Stock – The liquid base for the soup; ham stock can intensify the smoky taste.
• Fresh Thyme – Contributes herbal notes; dried thyme is a suitable substitute—just use less.
• Parsley, Fresh – For garnish that adds a pop of color; optional sprigs can also enhance flavor.
• Bay Leaf, Optional – Brings depth to the dish; be sure to remove it before serving.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste; these enhance all the lovely flavors in your split pea soup.
How to Make Split Pea Soup
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Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, slicing the carrots and celery, and mincing the garlic. This creates a flavor-packed base for your soup, and the scents will delight your senses!
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, mix together the dried split peas, prepared vegetables, cubed ham, fresh thyme, parsley, and the bay leaf if you’re using it. Pour in the chicken stock to combine everything into a hearty blend.
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Cook to Perfection: Ensure the mixture is covered by about ½-inch of liquid, then set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Let it do the magic while you go about your day!
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Finish & Adjust: Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf and taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to make it just right for you.
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Serve Hot: Ladle the comforting soup into bowls and garnish with additional chopped parsley for that extra pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete and cozy meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Split Pea Soup
Fridge: Store your split pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This preserves its delicious flavors while keeping it fresh.
Freezer: Freeze leftovers in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space in the container as the soup may expand when frozen.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to restore consistency.
Make-Ahead: Feel free to prepare this comforting split pea soup in advance; it gets even better as the flavors meld together!
Expert Tips for Split Pea Soup
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Proper Submersion: Ensure the split peas are fully submerged in the broth; they need enough liquid to cook evenly and achieve the right texture.
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Thickened Consistency: For a creamier soup, blend a portion before serving. This adds a velvety texture that enhances the overall enjoyment.
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Mind the Timing: Avoid overcooking, as it could lead to mushy split peas. Stick to the recommended cooking times for optimal results.
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage to elevate your split pea soup and give it your personal touch.
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Vegetarian Alternatives: If you prefer a meat-free version, swap out the ham for smoked paprika, ensuring you still capture that delicious smoky flavor.
Split Pea Soup Variations
Customize your hearty soup with these delightful twists that will surprise your taste buds and keep things exciting!
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Smoky Turkey: Replace ham with smoked turkey for a leaner, equally flavorful option. It brings a new dimension without sacrificing that smoky goodness.
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Vegetable Broth: Swap chicken stock for vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version that’s still satisfying and full of flavor.
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Herb Medley: Add a variety of fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or dill for an herby explosion, enhancing the dish’s complexity and fragrance.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to dial up the heat. Just a hint will elevate your soup and warm you from the inside out.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk during the last hour of cooking for a creamy, tropical flair that contrasts beautifully with the earthiness of the peas.
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Bacon Infusion: For an added smoky flavor, sauté chopped bacon before adding it to the slow cooker. This will give your soup a rich depth that’s utterly decadent.
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Citrus Zest: Finish with a touch of lemon or orange zest before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist to each comforting spoonful.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in some grated cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a cheesy finish that will create a luscious texture and savory flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and garlic) and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in advance, which saves precious time on busy weeknights. Additionally, the dried split peas can be pre-measured and stored until you’re ready to cook. When you’re prepared to serve, simply add the prepped ingredients along with the cubed ham and chicken stock to your slow cooker. Set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, and you’ll enjoy a comforting and flavorful soup that tastes just as delicious on day two!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup?
Cozy up to a delightful meal by complementing your heartwarming soup with these delicious pairings that enhance its flavors.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a fresh loaf adds a satisfying crunch and soaks up the soup’s creamy goodness.
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Cornbread: Its slightly sweet flavor contrasts beautifully with the smoky notes of the soup, creating a comforting combination.
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Simple Side Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette provide a crisp, refreshing counterpoint, adding brightness to each bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized edges of mixed veggies offer a delightful texture and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the soup’s richness.
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Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy and buttery, these make every spoonful of soup even more indulgent, creating a real treat for the senses.
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Pickles or Relish: A tangy condiment adds a bright punch to your meal, cutting through the creaminess of the soup and balancing flavors.
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Red Wine: A glass of light red wine complements the smoky ham and brings depth to the dish, making for a more elegant dining experience.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, sweet treat with a hint of cinnamon wraps up your meal splendidly, balancing savory and sweet in blissful harmony.
Split Pea Soup Recipe FAQs
What if my split peas don’t soften while cooking?
Absolutely a common concern! Ensure you’re using fresh, high-quality dried split peas, as older peas may not cook properly. If you find your split peas aren’t softening after the cooking time, you can add a little more liquid and let them cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour on high.
How should I store leftover split pea soup?
For sure! Store your split pea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This retention method keeps the flavors fresh and enjoyable. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it!
Can I freeze split pea soup, and if so, how?
Yes! I often make a big batch just for freezing. Allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags—leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low, adding some water or stock to reach your preferred consistency.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Very good question! This split pea soup can be easily adapted. If you have a vegetarian or vegan audience, replace the ham with smoked paprika for a delicious smoky flavor without the meat. Just be mindful of allergies to garlic or legumes, as well, as split peas are a legume and some people may have sensitivities. Always double-check with guests!
What should I do if I want a thicker soup?
If you prefer a creamy consistency, blending a portion of the soup before serving can work wonders! Simply scoop out about a cup of the soup, blend it with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth, and then stir it back into the pot. This will create a wonderfully velvety texture everyone will love.
How do I select the best split peas?
When choosing dried split peas, look for ones that are uniform in color without dark spots—these might indicate age. Fresh peas should feel slightly moist and not rock hard. If possible, opt for organic split peas for the best flavor and quality!
Hearty Split Pea Soup: Comforting Slow Cooker Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, slicing the carrots and celery, and mincing the garlic.
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, mix together the dried split peas, prepared vegetables, cubed ham, fresh thyme, parsley, and the bay leaf if you're using it. Pour in the chicken stock to combine everything into a hearty blend.
- Cook to Perfection: Ensure the mixture is covered by about ½-inch of liquid, then set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Finish & Adjust: Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf and taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to make it just right for you.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the comforting soup into bowls and garnish with additional chopped parsley.