If there’s one soup that embodies hearty, comforting, and homey flavors, it’s Split Pea Soup with Ham. This classic dish combines tender split peas, smoky ham, and a medley of vegetables, simmered together until rich and flavorful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re looking to make good use of leftover ham, this soup is a warm hug in a bowl.

Split pea soup is beloved for its thick, creamy consistency (without needing cream!) and its ability to satisfy with every spoonful. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep or cozy family dinners. Let’s dive in and make this timeless recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup with Ham

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with fiber-rich split peas, protein from the ham, and wholesome veggies, this soup is a complete meal.
• Smoky Flavor: Using a ham bone or smoked ham adds incredible depth to the soup.
• Easy to Make: A one-pot recipe that requires minimal effort yet delivers big flavor.
• Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

What Does Split Pea Soup Taste Like?

This soup is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying. The split peas break down as they cook, creating a naturally creamy texture with earthy undertones. The smoky flavor from the ham is complemented by the sweetness of carrots and the aromatic trio of onion, celery, and garlic. It’s a well-balanced soup that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make Split Pea Soup with Ham:

For the Soup:

• Split peas (1 lb, rinsed and picked through)
• Ham bone (or 2 cups diced ham, if you don’t have a ham bone)
• Onion (1 large, diced)
• Carrots (3 medium, diced)
• Celery (3 stalks, diced)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Chicken or vegetable broth (6 cups)
• Water (2 cups)

• Bay leaf (1)
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Croutons or crusty bread (for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need:

• A large soup pot or Dutch oven (to cook the soup).
• A ladle (for serving).
• A sharp knife and cutting board (for chopping vegetables).
• An immersion blender (optional, for a smoother consistency).

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to customize it to your taste:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version. Add smoked paprika for a touch of smoky flavor.
• Add Potatoes: Diced potatoes add extra heartiness to the soup.
• Herb Variations: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.

How to Make Split Pea Soup with Ham

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this comforting soup:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Rinse the split peas under cold water, picking out any debris or stones.
2. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Split Peas and Ham

1. Add the split peas, ham bone (or diced ham), chicken broth, water, bay leaf, and dried thyme to the pot.
2. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. The split peas will break down and thicken the soup as it cooks. If it becomes too thick, add a little more water or broth.

Step 5: Remove the Ham Bone

1. Once the peas are tender and the soup has thickened, remove the ham bone from the pot.
2. Shred any remaining meat off the bone and stir it back into the soup.

Step 6: Season and Serve

1. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or croutons on the side.

What to Serve with Split Pea Soup

This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are a few sides that pair beautifully with it:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Sandwich: Pair with a grilled cheese or ham sandwich for a comforting combo.

Tips for Perfect Split Pea Soup

• Don’t Skip the Rinse: Rinse the split peas thoroughly to remove excess starch and debris.
• Use a Ham Bone for Maximum Flavor: The bone adds a rich, smoky depth to the soup. If you don’t have one, smoked ham hocks or diced ham are great substitutes.
• Adjust Consistency: For a chunkier soup, leave it as is. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part (or all) of the soup.
• Stir Occasionally: Split peas can stick to the bottom of the pot as they cook, so stir the soup occasionally to prevent burning.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Split pea soup freezes beautifully! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?

Yes! Yellow split peas can be used as a substitute and will give the soup a slightly sweeter flavor and a golden color.

What if I don’t have a ham bone?

You can use smoked ham hocks, diced ham, or even smoked sausage as a substitute for the ham bone.

Why is my soup too thick?

Split pea soup thickens as it cools. If it becomes too thick, simply add more broth or water when reheating.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and stir it back into the soup before serving.

Conclusion

There you have it—Split Pea Soup with Ham, a comforting classic that’s hearty, flavorful, and so easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover ham or simply craving a warm, nourishing bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

I’d love to hear how your soup turns out! Leave a comment below or share your photos on Pinterest. And if you’re looking for more cozy soup recipes, check out my loaded potato soup or chicken and wild rice soup—you’ll love them!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 5g

Enjoy every hearty, smoky spoonful of this split pea soup—it’s comfort food at its finest! 😊