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Split pea soup is one of those timeless comfort foods that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, nutritious, and budget-friendly, making it the perfect meal for cozy nights or simple weeknight dinners. Whether you prefer it thick and creamy or a little more brothy, this soup warms you from the inside out with every spoonful. Traditionally made with dried split peas, aromatic vegetables, and savory herbs, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in a pot on the stove, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot—perfect for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons why split pea soup remains a classic across generations and cultures. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:

Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from split peas and vegetables, it’s a complete and hearty meal.
Budget-friendly: Dried split peas are inexpensive and go a long way, making this an affordable option for families.
Customizable: Whether you want to keep it vegetarian, add ham for richness, or spice it up with bold flavors, the recipe is incredibly flexible.
Perfect for meal prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, and it freezes beautifully, so you can always have a healthy meal ready to go.
Comfort in a bowl: Nothing beats the warmth and coziness of a bowl of homemade split pea soup served with crusty bread.

This recipe checks all the boxes: nourishing, easy, and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Here’s what you’ll need to make a flavorful pot of split pea soup:

Split peas (green or yellow, rinsed and picked over)
Olive oil or butter
Onion (diced)
Carrots (chopped)
Celery (chopped)
Garlic cloves (minced)
Bay leaves
Dried thyme (or fresh sprigs)
Salt and black pepper
Vegetable broth or chicken broth (or water, for a lighter flavor)
Ham bone or diced ham (optional, for a traditional version)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

These simple ingredients create a rich, savory soup that’s naturally creamy once the split peas break down during cooking.

Let’s Get Started

Making split pea soup is straightforward, but the results are deeply rewarding.

Prepare the peas: Rinse the split peas under cold water and remove any debris or discolored peas.
Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
Build the flavor: Add split peas, bay leaves, thyme, and broth. Stir to combine. If using a ham bone or diced ham, add it now.
Simmer the soup: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 60–75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Add more broth or water if needed.
Adjust and serve: Remove bay leaves (and ham bone, if used). Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

That’s it—your hearty, homemade split pea soup is ready to enjoy!

Servings and Pairing

This recipe makes about 6 hearty servings. It’s perfect on its own, but you can elevate it with the right sides:

Crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the soup.
Side salad for a refreshing balance.
Grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food combo.
Roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.

Pair it with your favorite beverage—sparkling water, hot tea, or even a light glass of white wine.

Variations

One of the best things about split pea soup is its versatility. Here are a few fun variations:

Vegetarian/Vegan: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Classic ham version: Use a ham bone for added depth of flavor and tender chunks of ham.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Herb twist: Try adding rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.
Chunky vs. smooth: Leave it rustic and chunky, or blend it silky smooth—it’s up to you.

This recipe adapts easily to your preferences and dietary needs.

Storage Tips

Split pea soup is fantastic for meal prep because it stores so well:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

In fact, many people say split pea soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen.

FAQs

Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?

No soaking required—split peas cook much faster than other legumes. Just rinse and go.

Can I make split pea soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

Is split pea soup healthy?

Absolutely. Split peas are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this soup both hearty and nutritious.

What can I use instead of ham?

You can leave it out or replace it with smoked turkey, or keep it vegetarian with extra herbs and spices.

How thick should split pea soup be?

It’s naturally thick and creamy, but you can thin it out with extra broth or water if you prefer a lighter texture.

Final Thoughts

Split pea soup is more than just a bowl of comfort—it’s a meal that’s nourishing, affordable, and incredibly versatile. From its rich, hearty texture to the earthy flavor of split peas and vegetables, this soup is perfect for chilly nights or anytime you’re craving a satisfying homemade dish. Whether you keep it classic with ham or make it vegetarian, you’ll end up with a recipe that feels both wholesome and indulgent.