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Split Pea Soup Recipe

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There’s something about a pot of soup simmering on the stove that instantly makes a house feel warm and lived-in. This split pea soup is one of those timeless, comforting recipes that’s simple, hearty, and perfect for using up leftover holiday ham. 

This is the kind of soup that gets better as it sits, tastes even more delicious the next day, and pairs perfectly with crusty bread or toast. If you’re craving something nourishing, classic, and easy, this one checks all the boxes.

split pea soup

Why You’ll Love This Split Pea Soup

  • Uses simple pantry ingredients
  • Perfect for leftover ham
  • Naturally thick and hearty, no cream needed
  • Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep

Split Pea Soup

This homemade split pea soup is one of those recipes you’ll come back to every winter. It’s humble, comforting, and reliable.
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

  • 1 lb dried green split peas rinsed (no soaking needed)
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 2 carrots peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or 2 fresh sprigs
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6-7 cups chicken broth low sodium works best
  • 1-2 cups cooked ham diced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Sauté the vegetables
  • Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  • Add the rinsed split peas, thyme, bay leaf, chicken broth, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
  • Simmer.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 60–75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are very soft and starting to break down.
  • Add the ham. Stir in the diced ham and continue to simmer for another 10–15 minutes, until heated through.
  • Remove the bay leaf. Taste and season with salt as needed (go light at first — the ham adds salt).
  • For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender for a few quick pulses or gently mash with a spoon.

Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup

  • No soaking needed – Split peas cook down beautifully on their own.
  • Low and slow is key – Rushing this soup doesn’t help.
  • Too thick? – Add a little more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Too thin? – Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to thicken.
  • Blend if desired – An immersion blender makes it extra creamy.
  • Season at the end – Especially if using ham, since salt levels vary.

This is one of those easy split pea soup recipes that adapts to how you cook naturally.

my kitchen essentials:

What to Serve With Split Pea Soup

This soup is filling on its own, but it’s even better with:

  • Homemade bread
  • Roasted veggies
  • Simple side salad
  • Crackers or grilled cheese

It’s cozy, filling, and feels like a full meal without needing much else.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezer Tips

Split pea soup is perfect for meal prep.

  • Fridge: Keeps well for 4–5 days
  • Freezer: Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
  • Reheating: Add a splash of broth or water and warm gently

If anything, the flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.

This homemade split pea soup is one of those recipes you’ll come back to every winter. It’s comforting, and the kind of food that feels good to make and even better to eat.

If you try it, save it for later, or print it out and tuck it into your regular rotation. This is comfort food in its simplest, best form.

I’d love to know what you think of this recipe. Let me know!

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