Split pea ham soup has a way of wrapping you in a warm hug, especially on a chilly evening. I remember my dad making this for us growing up, the aroma of savory ham and earthy peas filling the entire house. It was more than just a meal; it was pure comfort in a bowl. This homemade split pea ham soup is incredibly satisfying, thickening up beautifully on its own, and it’s become my go-to for a hearty, budget-friendly meal that tastes like pure nostalgia. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Ham Soup

This soup is a winner for so many reasons:

• The flavor is incredibly rich and savory, a truly classic comfort food experience.
• It’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an easy split pea ham soup recipe for busy weeknights.
• Packed with protein and fiber from the peas and ham, it’s a nutritious choice.
• It’s incredibly budget-friendly, especially when you use leftover ham or a ham bone.
• Kids and adults alike adore this hearty, thick soup – it’s a guaranteed family favorite.
• This easy split pea ham soup recipe requires minimal hands-on time.
• The naturally thick texture means no cream or thickeners are needed.
• It’s the perfect cozy meal to warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients for Split Pea Ham Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this comforting bowl of goodness. You’ll need the stars of the show: 1 pound (450g) dried green split peas, which just need a quick rinse and sort to remove any debris. For that signature savory depth, I love using either 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham – the bone really adds an incredible richness. You’ll also need some foundational aromatics: 1 onion, diced, 2 carrots, peeled and chopped, and 2 celery stalks, chopped. Don’t forget 2 cloves garlic, minced for a little punch! The liquid base is 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth, and we’ll add 1 bay leaf and 1 teaspoon dried thyme for those classic, warm flavors. Finally, have salt and black pepper, to taste ready for seasoning, and some chopped parsley, for garnish (optional) to make it pretty. These are your essential split pea soup ingredients ham needs to shine.

How to Make Split Pea Ham Soup

Making this classic soup is surprisingly straightforward, whether you prefer the stovetop or a slow cooker. Here’s how to get that rich, comforting flavor:

1. Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics (Stovetop). Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
2. Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients (Stovetop). Now it’s time to add the heart of the soup. Stir in the rinsed and sorted dried green split peas, your meaty ham bone (or the diced cooked ham), the dried thyme, and the bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth. This is the foundation for your amazing split pea ham soup.
3. Step 3: Simmer to Perfection (Stovetop). Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot tightly. Let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. You want to stir it every so often to prevent sticking and ensure the peas break down beautifully, creating that signature thick texture. The aroma filling your kitchen as you learn how to make split pea ham soup is truly delightful.
4. Step 4: Remove Ham Bone (Stovetop). Once the peas are tender and the soup has thickened, carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred any leftover meat from it and return the delicious meat to the soup.
5. Step 5: Season and Serve (Stovetop). Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Remember to add salt towards the end to prevent the peas from toughening. Ladle the piping hot split pea ham soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Step 6: Prepare for the Slow Cooker. For the slow cooker method, simply add all of your ingredients – the rinsed split peas, ham bone or diced ham, diced onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme – directly into a 6-quart slow cooker.
7. Step 7: Cook the Soup (Slow Cooker). Cover the slow cooker and cook on the “low” setting for 8 hours or on the “high” setting for 5–6 hours. This longer, slower cooking time really allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making this a truly effortless way to learn how to make split pea ham soup.
8. Step 8: Finish and Serve (Slow Cooker). Once the cooking time is up, remove the ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the pot. Stir everything together well. Season your split pea ham soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Split Pea Ham Soup

Want to elevate your soup game? These tips will ensure your split pea ham soup is absolutely perfect every time:

• Start with a quality ham bone – the marrow and meat bits add an unparalleled depth and richness to the broth, defining the classic split pea soup flavor profile ham enthusiasts crave.
• Don’t skip rinsing your split peas! This simple step removes any dust or debris and ensures a cleaner taste.
• Resist the urge to add salt too early. Salt can toughen the pea skins, preventing them from softening properly. Add it at the very end after the peas are tender.
• For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked peas against the side of the pot with your spoon, or even blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in.

What’s the secret to perfect Split Pea Ham Soup?

The absolute secret is using a meaty ham bone! It infuses the soup with a rich, savory flavor that you just can’t replicate with diced ham alone. It truly defines the classic split pea soup flavor profile ham is known for.

Can I make Split Pea Ham Soup ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can cook the soup a day or two in advance. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it covered in the refrigerator.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Split Pea Ham Soup?

The biggest mistake is adding salt too early, which can make peas tough. Another common pitfall is not simmering long enough; ensure peas are fully tender. Finally, don’t forget to remove and shred any meat from the ham bone for maximum flavor!

Best Ways to Serve Split Pea Ham Soup

This deeply satisfying soup is wonderful on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. For a truly comforting meal, serve a generous bowl of this hearty split pea ham soup alongside some crusty bread. A good sourdough or a rustic baguette is perfect for dipping into that thick, savory broth. I also love serving it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add a fresh contrast. For a more robust meal, consider pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich – the combination is pure nostalgic bliss!

Nutrition Facts for Split Pea Ham Soup

This hearty soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 13g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Split Pea Ham Soup

This wonderfully flavorful soup is perfect for making ahead, and it actually tastes even better the next day! Once your delicious bowl of split pea ham soup has cooled down completely, transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will keep well for 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it even longer, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. This is a fantastic way to utilize split pea soup with leftover ham!

To reheat, simply thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Then, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, just add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Split Pea Ham Soup

What is split pea ham soup?

Split pea ham soup is a hearty and comforting soup made primarily from dried split peas and ham. It’s a classic dish known for its thick, creamy texture and savory flavor profile, often enhanced by a ham bone or leftover ham. It’s a staple in many cuisines, particularly in North America and Europe, appreciated for its simplicity and satisfying nature.

Is split pea ham soup healthy?

Yes, this soup is quite nutritious! Dried split peas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. When made with lean ham or a ham bone, it provides a good amount of protein. The vegetables like carrots and celery add essential vitamins and antioxidants, making it a well-rounded and healthy meal option. It’s a truly wholesome dish.

What is the difference between green and yellow split peas in soup?

Both green and yellow split peas work wonderfully in soup, but they offer slightly different results. Green split peas are the traditional choice for classic split pea soup and tend to break down more easily, creating a thicker, creamier texture. Yellow split peas also thicken the soup but might hold their shape a bit more, offering a slightly milder flavor. Either will give you a delicious soup, but for a truly classic split pea ham soup, green peas are often preferred.

Can I make split pea ham soup without a ham bone?

Absolutely! While a ham bone adds incredible depth of flavor, you can definitely make a delicious split pea ham soup using diced cooked ham. Just ensure you use a good quality, flavorful ham, and consider adding a bay leaf and a sprig of thyme to help build those savory notes. You might also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Variations of Split Pea Ham Soup You Can Try

While the classic is amazing, I love experimenting with this soup! For a lighter option, try a vegetarian split pea soup alternative by swapping the ham and chicken broth for vegetable broth and adding smoked paprika or a pinch of liquid smoke for that hint of savory depth. If you’re curious about different pea types, using yellow split pea soup with ham offers a slightly milder flavor and can sometimes cook a little faster. Conversely, stick with green split pea soup with ham for that traditional, earthy taste and super creamy texture. You can also adapt the cooking method; a pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time for a quick meal!

Print