This Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is thick, hearty, and packed with comforting flavor. Made with split peas, vegetables, and optional ham, it’s a budget-friendly crockpot soup perfect for cold days and easy meal prep. Just dump everything in the slow cooker and let it simmer to cozy perfection. Save this classic crockpot soup recipe for later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – dump-and-go slow cooker recipe
- Family-friendly – mild, comforting flavors everyone loves
- Budget-friendly – inexpensive pantry staples
- Customizable – make it with ham, vegetarian, or extra veggies
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 ham bone or 1½ cups diced ham (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse the split peas under cold water and remove any debris.
- Add split peas, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the broth and add ham (if using), bay leaf, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until peas are soft and soup is thick.
- Remove the bay leaf and ham bone (if used). Shred any meat and return it to the soup.
- Stir well, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Equipment
- Slow cooker (4–6 quart)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Tips & Variations
- Vegetarian option: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth.
- Extra creamy: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
- Thicker soup: Let it cook uncovered for the last 20–30 minutes.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth when reheating, as the soup thickens over time.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast
- Pair with a simple green salad
- Top with cracked black pepper or fresh parsley
- Great as a main dish or hearty starter
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 7g
(Values will vary based on ham and broth used.)
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is the ultimate cozy, no-fuss meal perfect for cold days, tight budgets, and busy schedules. Make a big batch, enjoy leftovers, and don’t forget to save, print, or share this recipe for later!
FAQ Section
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes Split pea soup freezes very well. Cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How do I make this soup ahead of time?
Prepare the soup fully, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with extra broth.
Can I make this without ham?
Absolutely. This recipe works great as a vegetarian soup using vegetable broth.
Why is my split pea soup too thick?
Split peas naturally thicken as they cool. Simply stir in more broth when reheating.
Do I need to soak split peas first?
No soaking required, just rinse and add directly to the slow cooker.