Crockpot Split Pea Soup

There’s nothing more comforting than coming home to a warm bowl of Crockpot Split Pea Soup. This hearty and healthy recipe is the ultimate “set it and forget it” meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With wholesome ingredients like split peas, carrots, celery, onion, and a meaty ham bone, this soup delivers rich flavor and satisfying nourishment. Best of all, the crockpot does all the work, so you can enjoy a delicious homecooked meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 20 ounces dried split peas (green or yellow)
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups leftover ham
• 3 ribs celery, diced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Rinse the split peas thoroughly and drain well.
2. Add all ingredients, except the parsley, into a 6-quart slow cooker.
3. Cover and cook on high for 4–5 hours or on low for 8 hours until the peas are tender and the flavors are well combined.
4. Discard the bay leaf, stir in fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Crockpot Split Pea Soup is best enjoyed hot, straight from the slow cooker. Pair it with crusty bread, garlic bread, cornbread, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete and comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil makes a simple garnish that elevates the presentation. For extra indulgence, top with homemade croutons or a little shredded cheese.
Leftovers should be cooled completely before storing. Transfer the soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water to thin if the soup has thickened.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Split Pea Soup – Replace the ham bone with additional vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps the soup hearty and flavorful while making it plant-based.
2. Smoked Turkey Split Pea Soup – Substitute the ham bone with smoked turkey legs or wings for a smoky, savory flavor. Remove the turkey meat once cooked, shred, and stir it back into the soup.
3. Bacon Lovers’ Split Pea Soup – Fry a few slices of bacon until crisp, crumble, and add them to the soup for a salty crunch. You can also sauté the vegetables in bacon grease for a richer flavor base.
4. Spicy Split Pea Soup – Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for a little heat. A dash of hot sauce stirred in before serving also works perfectly.
5. Herbed Split Pea Soup – Enhance the flavor by adding herbs like rosemary, sage, or dill along with the thyme. Fresh herbs brighten up the earthy peas and balance the richness of the ham.
6. Creamy Split Pea Soup – Blend part or all of the soup with an immersion blender for a smooth, velvety texture. Stir in cream, half-and-half, or even coconut milk for added richness.
7. Split Pea and Potato Soup – Add diced russet or Yukon gold potatoes for extra bulk. The starch from the potatoes makes the soup even creamier.
8. Split Pea Soup with Sausage – Brown slices of smoked sausage or kielbasa and stir them in. The smoky, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the peas.

FAQs

1. Can I make split pea soup without a ham bone?
   Yes! You can use diced ham, smoked turkey, or even skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
2. Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?
   No, split peas don’t require soaking. Just rinse them well before adding to the crockpot.
3. Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
   Yes, both work well. Green peas are slightly sweeter, while yellow peas have a milder, earthy flavor.
4. Why is my split pea soup too thick?
   Split peas naturally thicken as they cook. Add a splash of water or broth to thin the soup to your preferred consistency.
5. Can I freeze split pea soup?
   Absolutely. Store cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
6. Can I cook this soup on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
   Yes. Simmer on the stove for 1.5 to 2 hours until peas are tender, stirring occasionally.
7. How can I make the soup creamier?
   Use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup. You can also stir in cream or coconut milk.
8. What goes well with split pea soup?
   Crusty bread, cornbread, grilled cheese, or a light salad make perfect pairings.
9. Can I make split pea soup ahead of time?
   Yes, it’s a great make-ahead meal since the flavors deepen as it sits. Store in the fridge and reheat when ready.
10. Why is my split pea soup not softening?
    If peas remain hard, it could be due to old peas or acidic ingredients (like tomatoes) added too early. Use fresh peas and avoid acidic ingredients until the end.

Crockpot Split Pea Soup is the perfect balance of hearty flavor, healthy ingredients, and simple preparation. Whether you make it with a ham bone after the holidays or choose a vegetarian version, this recipe is a comforting classic that never disappoints. Its rich texture and warm flavors make it a go-to soup for cold weather or whenever you need a satisfying and wholesome meal.

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