Split Pea Soup Recipe: Easy Homemade Comfort in One Pot

Warm, hearty, and brimming with wholesome comfort, this Split Pea Soup Recipe is the ultimate cold-weather meal that warms you from the inside out. This nourishing dish features tender split peas simmered with smoky ham, aromatic vegetables, and savory herbs, creating a thick, velvety soup that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with comforting aromas and brings everyone together around the table.

Each spoonful delivers a satisfying combination of textures—creamy split peas, tender chunks of ham, and soft vegetables all melded together in a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you’re cooking for a chilly weeknight or preparing a big batch for meal prep, this Split Pea Soup Recipe is as simple to make as it is delicious. Serve it with your favorite accompaniments like crusty bread, crackers, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for a customizable meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup Recipe

• Budget-friendly comfort: Split peas are incredibly affordable and turn into something truly special with minimal ingredients.
• Naturally thick and creamy: No cream needed—the peas break down naturally to create that signature velvety texture.
• Protein-packed and filling: Loaded with plant-based protein and fiber, this soup keeps you satisfied for hours.
• Perfect for meal prep: Makes a large batch that tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully.
• Classic homestyle flavor: Old-fashioned comfort food that never goes out of style and pleases every generation.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, Plus Why They Matter)

Before diving into this delicious Split Pea Soup Recipe, having the right tools on hand will make everything smoother—from prep to serving.

Essential Tools & Why You Need Them:

Large Dutch Oven or Stock Pot (6-8 quart)
This is essential for making this Split Pea Soup Recipe. The heavy bottom prevents scorching and distributes heat evenly for perfect simmering.

Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula
Perfect for stirring the soup regularly and scraping the bottom to prevent sticking as the peas break down.

Immersion Blender (Optional)
If you prefer a completely smooth soup, an immersion blender makes it easy to puree right in the pot.

Sharp Knife & Cutting Board
For chopping vegetables, dicing ham, and preparing garnishes like fresh parsley or green onions.

Measuring Cups & Spoons
Precision helps—especially for the liquid ratios and seasonings that make this soup perfectly balanced.

Ladle
Essential for serving this hearty soup into bowls without making a mess.

Having these items prepped and within reach makes the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.

Preparation Tips

• Rinse the split peas thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris—no soaking required unlike other dried legumes.
• Cut vegetables into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the soup’s texture.
• Don’t skip the aromatics—sautéing onions, carrots, and celery creates a flavor foundation that makes this Split Pea Soup Recipe exceptional.
• Stir regularly during simmering to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom and scorching.
• Add water as needed throughout cooking—split peas absorb a lot of liquid as they soften and break down.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the soup sit for 10-15 minutes to thicken further and allow flavors to deepen beautifully.

These small touches make a big difference in achieving the perfect consistency and maximum flavor.

Ingredients for This Split Pea Soup Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this classic, nourishing soup to life. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this Split Pea Soup Recipe both economical and easy to prepare.

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over
• 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced ham (smoked ham hock works great)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)

Optional Add-ins:

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (for extra heartiness)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for deeper smoky flavor)
• ½ teaspoon cumin (for warmth)
• Splash of apple cider vinegar (brightens the flavor)

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Crispy bacon bits
• Croutons
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• Chopped green onions

Everything in this list works together harmoniously—the smoky ham and earthy split peas create that classic comfort food flavor. The toppings are optional but add freshness and textural contrast.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Ham

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery (this classic combination is called mirepoix). Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

If using diced ham instead of a ham bone, add it now and cook for 2-3 minutes to release its flavors into the vegetables.

Step 2: Add Split Peas and Liquid

Add the rinsed split peas to the pot, stirring to coat them with the vegetable mixture. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the ham bone if using. Drop in the bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper. Stir everything together well.

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot partially (leaving a small gap for steam to escape) and let it cook.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Let this Split Pea Soup Recipe simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the split peas cook, they’ll break down and thicken the soup naturally. If the soup becomes too thick, add water or broth ½ cup at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

If using a ham bone, remove it after about an hour. Once cool enough to handle, shred any meat off the bone and return it to the pot. Discard the bone and any fat.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning and Texture

Remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and additional pepper as needed. Remember that ham can be salty, so taste before adding extra salt.

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup. For a chunkier, rustic texture, leave it as is with whole pieces of vegetables and ham visible throughout.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like fresh parsley, crispy bacon, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or crackers for a complete, satisfying meal.

This Split Pea Soup Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld and deepen.

Notes

Ham Options: A ham bone with meat adds incredible flavor, but diced ham, ham hocks, or even bacon work well. For vegetarian versions, skip the meat and add smoked paprika for depth.

Consistency Control: This soup thickens considerably as it sits. Add liquid when reheating to return it to your preferred consistency.

Flavor Booster: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness beautifully.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Not rinsing the split peas: Unwashed peas can add unwanted debris and create cloudy, gritty soup. Always rinse thoroughly first.
• Cooking on too high heat: High heat causes the peas to stick and scorch on the bottom. Keep it at a gentle simmer for best results.
• Not stirring regularly: Split peas sink and can stick to the pot bottom. Stir every 15-20 minutes to prevent burning.
• Adding salt too early: The ham and broth already contain salt. Wait until the end to adjust seasoning and avoid over-salting.
• Using a pot that’s too small: This Split Pea Soup Recipe needs room to simmer without boiling over. Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
• Skipping the vegetable sauté: This step builds the flavor foundation. Don’t skip sautéing the aromatics before adding liquid.
• Not adding enough liquid: Split peas absorb a lot of water as they cook. Keep extra broth or water handy to add as needed.
• Overcooking until it’s too thick: While thick is good, too thick becomes paste-like. Monitor consistency and add liquid to keep it soup-like.

What to Serve With Split Pea Soup Recipe?

This hearty and filling soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a complete, restaurant-quality meal. Whether you want something classic or creative, there’s a perfect accompaniment.

8 Delicious Recommendations:

Crusty French Bread or Sourdough
Warm, crusty bread with butter is perfect for dipping and soaking up every spoonful of this delicious soup.

Simple Garden Salad
A crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.

Cornbread or Dinner Rolls
Slightly sweet cornbread or soft buttery rolls complement the savory, smoky soup beautifully.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich
The ultimate comfort food pairing—crispy, melty grilled cheese dunked into warm split pea soup is unbeatable.

Roasted Root Vegetables
Caramelized carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and hearty substance.

Coleslaw
Tangy, crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup texture.

Pickled Vegetables
Pickled onions, cucumbers, or beets add bright acidity that cuts through the soup’s richness.

Apple Pie or Baked Apples (for dessert)
A sweet, warming dessert rounds out this comfort-focused meal perfectly, especially in cool weather.

These pairings help round out the meal and bring a complete, satisfying dining experience to your table.

Storage Instructions

This Split Pea Soup Recipe stores beautifully and actually tastes better after the flavors have time to meld overnight.

How to Store:

Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-2 inches of headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add water or broth to thin as needed since the soup thickens when refrigerated.

Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium-high power for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of water to restore consistency.

Always ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 8 Servings)

Please note this is an approximate breakdown and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	285
Protein	19g
Carbohydrates	42g
Dietary Fiber	16g
Sugar	6g
Total Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	1g
Unsaturated Fat	3g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	680mg

This soup delivers an impressive amount of fiber and protein—perfect for a nutritious, filling meal that supports sustained energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this Split Pea Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare it fully, cool, and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The flavors improve with time.

2. Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?
No! Unlike whole dried peas or beans, split peas don’t require any soaking. Just rinse and cook—making this recipe incredibly convenient.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely. Skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead. Add smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or miso paste for depth and umami richness.

4. Why is my split pea soup too thick?
Split peas continue absorbing liquid as they sit. Simply add more broth or water while reheating and stir until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Yes! Yellow split peas work exactly the same way and have a slightly milder, sweeter flavor. The cooking time and method remain identical.

6. Can I make this in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Certainly. For slow cooker: cook on low for 6-8 hours. For Instant Pot: pressure cook on high for 15 minutes with natural release.

7. How do I prevent the soup from sticking to the pot?
Use a heavy-bottomed pot, keep heat at a gentle simmer, and stir regularly every 15-20 minutes. Adding enough liquid also helps prevent sticking.

8. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Of course. Potatoes, parsnips, turnips, or spinach all make excellent additions. Add heartier vegetables at the beginning, leafy greens at the end.

Conclusion

This Split Pea Soup Recipe is the ultimate combination of simple ingredients and satisfying comfort—all simmered together in one pot. With its creamy texture, smoky ham flavor, and wholesome vegetables, it’s everything you love about classic homestyle cooking.

Perfect for meal prep, freezer stocking, or cozy family dinners, this Split Pea Soup Recipe is as practical as it is delicious. Plus, with endless garnishing and serving options, it never gets boring. So grab your Dutch oven and make this timeless soup that everyone will love.