Name: Slow Cooker Split Pea and Ham Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h 15 min
Total time: 5 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups dried yellow split peas or green split peas, rinsed and drained; 2 cups cooked ham or one ham bone with some meat on it; 3 ribs celery diced; 2 medium carrots diced; 1 medium onion diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 5 cups chicken broth; 1 cup water; salt to taste

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

There’s something incredibly soothing about a bowl of warm soup, especially on a chilly night. The rich aroma of Slow Cooker Split Pea and Ham Soup wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a comforting embrace. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a melody of flavors that evokes a sense of home. Whether you’ve enjoyed this dish at grandma’s house or discovered it on one of those cozy evenings in, the heartiness of the split peas combined with tender ham is nothing short of nostalgic.

Pin this for later!

What makes this recipe even more appealing is how effortlessly it comes together. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it—perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when you’re looking to nourish your family without the hassle. Utilizing simple, budget-friendly ingredients, this dish is a fantastic way to clear out your pantry staples. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s make something delicious.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Slow Cooker Split Pea and Ham Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Slow Cooker Split Pea and Ham Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Just 15 minutes of prep and let the slow cooker work its magic.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoky ham and earthy split peas creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep for the week ahead.
Budget-Friendly: It’s a wallet-friendly way to serve a delicious, filling meal.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by opting for gluten-free broth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 1/2 cups dried yellow split peas or green split peas, rinsed and drained: Split peas form the hearty base of this soup, providing a creamy texture as they cook down. Green or yellow varieties work well; just remember to rinse them thoroughly before use.
2 cups cooked ham or one ham bone with some meat on it: Adds rich, smoky flavor to the soup. If using a bone, be sure to remove it after cooking. Leftover ham is a great choice for ease.
3 ribs celery, diced: Celery adds a refreshing crunch and helps layer the flavors.
2 medium carrots, diced: These sweet veggies contribute both color and a hint of natural sweetness to balance the dish.
1 medium onion, diced: Onions add depth and sweetness as they caramelize during cooking.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb brings a warm aroma that complements the smoky ham beautifully.
2 bay leaves: Bay leaves add subtle depth and rich earthiness to the broth.
1/8 teaspoon black pepper: This adds a gentle kick without overwhelming the soup.
5 cups chicken broth: The foundation of the soup; use low-sodium broth for better control of seasoning.
1 cup water: This helps adjust the soup’s consistency and ensures everything cooks perfectly.
Salt to taste: Adjust to your preference at the end of cooking for the best flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Split Pea and Ham Soup

Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the rinsed split peas, diced celery, carrots, diced onion, dried thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
Add Liquid: Pour in the 5 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water. Give it another gentle stir to combine all the ingredients.
Set to Cook: Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours or on low for 8 hours. If you’re planning for that cozy weekend dinner, a low setting is ideal.
Finish Up: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the bay leaves and any ham bone used. Taste the soup and season with salt as needed.

The magic of this recipe truly lies in the slow cooking process. As the hours pass, the rich flavors meld beautifully, creating an inviting aroma that fills your home.

Storing & Reheating

To store your delicious soup, allow it to cool at room temperature for no more than two hours. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes well; just be sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag and consume it within 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy your soup again, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Do note that the texture may become thicker after freezing; adding a splash of broth or water can help restore its creamy consistency.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To avoid mushy split peas, be careful not to over-soak them before cooking. Just a good rinse will do.
Consider adding minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh herbs can also brighten the dish—try adding a sprinkle of parsley or chives before serving.
If you enjoy a thicker soup, mash a portion of it with a potato masher for that perfect creamy texture.
This soup is a fantastic candidate for meal prep; make a larger batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

The wholesome goodness of Slow Cooker Split Pea and Ham Soup is not just comforting; it’s an invitation to warmth and togetherness. Whether it’s a frenzied weeknight meal or a leisurely weekend gathering, this soup fits beautifully into any occasion. With a bit of patience, the reward is a hearty bowl that begs to be savored.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ham with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that needed depth of flavor, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.

How do I serve this soup?

This soup is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s also delightful with a dollop of sour cream or croutons for added texture.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can easily adapt this recipe to a stovetop method! Simply combine all the ingredients in a large pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the split peas are tender.

Can I use frozen split peas?

While dried split peas are best for this recipe, if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen split peas. Just reduce the cooking time as they will heat through more quickly.

More Soups Recipes

👉 If you make my Slow Cooker Split Pea and Ham Soup recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating — it really helps others discover the recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more easy recipes.