There’s something magical about a bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out. Imagine the rich, savory aroma of a simmering Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This delightful dish is not only hearty but also packed with flavor and comfort, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a cozy meal.

From my childhood days spent at my grandmother’s kitchen table, I remember her serving up bowls of this green goodness, with bits of ham floating like tiny islands in a sea of creamy split peas. It was perfect for those rainy afternoons when nothing else could lift your spirits quite like her famous soup. Now, as an adult, I’ve made it my mission to recreate that nostalgic flavor while adding my own twist. So grab your Crockpot and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that delivers not just deliciousness but also a healthy dose of nostalgia!

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup

This incredible Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup:

Split Peas: Yellow or green split peas work wonderfully; they break down during cooking and give the soup its creamy texture.
Ham Hock: A smoked ham hock adds depth and richness. Feel free to use leftover ham if you have some!
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Celery: Celery brings crunch and freshness; use stalks that are crisp and bright green.
Onion: A sweet onion enhances the overall flavor; dice it finely so it blends well into the soup.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic undertones; crush them for maximum flavor impact.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still delivering robust flavor.
Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves add subtle herbal notes that elevate the dish wonderfully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Prepping everything beforehand makes cooking a breeze!

Step 2: Rinse the Split Peas

In a fine mesh strainer, rinse your split peas under cool running water to remove any dust or debris. This step is crucial for ensuring your soup tastes fresh.

Step 3: Chop Vegetables

Dice the carrots, celery, and onion into small pieces—aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Crush the garlic cloves and set them aside since we’ll add them later.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In your trusty Crockpot, combine rinsed split peas, chopped vegetables, garlic, ham hock, bay leaves, and pour in vegetable broth until everything is submerged.

Step 5: Set It and Forget It

Cover the Crockpot with its lid and set it on low heat for about six hours or high for four hours. Go enjoy life while this beauty simmers away!

Step 6: Serve Up Some Comfort

Once cooked, carefully remove the ham hock (and any bones if necessary). Shred any remaining meat back into the soup and stir everything together before serving.

Transfer to bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every spoonful of this rich and satisfying soup that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Now go ahead and embrace the warmth of this classic dish that’s not just about food—it’s about memories!

You Must Know About Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup

This showstopping Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in your crockpot for a few minutes to release their flavors. Next, add in the split peas, ham, carrots, and broth. Set it on low and let it simmer slowly for hours while you relax!

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap ham with smoked sausage or turkey for a lighter option. Add a splash of hot sauce for heat or throw in some spinach towards the end for an extra nutrient boost. Customize it to fit your taste buds!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, warm it gently on the stove or microwave until steaming hot to maintain its delicious flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup

This professional-quality Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

There was a rainy Sunday when I decided to whip up this soup, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about how cozy it was! They all left with full bellies and smiles, promising to come back next week for round two.

FAQs

What is Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup?

Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup is a hearty and comforting dish made primarily with split peas, ham, and various vegetables. This soup cooks slowly in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The split peas break down during cooking, creating a creamy texture that complements the smoky taste of the ham. It’s an easy recipe perfect for busy days as you can set it and forget it, making it ideal for meal prep or family dinners.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup?

Cooking Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The slow cooking process allows the peas to soften completely and absorb all the flavors from the ham and vegetables. If you’re short on time, using the high setting can speed things up, but for the best taste and texture, the low setting is recommended.

Can I use dried peas instead of canned in Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup?

Yes, you can absolutely use dried peas in your Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup! Dried split peas are actually the traditional choice for this recipe. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to your crockpot. They will absorb water during cooking, so there’s no need to pre-soak them. This method enhances their flavor and creates a deliciously thick soup.

What are some variations of Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup?

There are numerous ways to customize your Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup! You can add different vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes for added nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced green chilies or red pepper flakes. Additionally, if you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter option.

Conclusion

In summary, Crockpot Split Pea Ham Soup is an easy-to-make dish that offers warmth and flavor in every bowl. With its slow-cooked goodness and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it on chilly evenings or as a meal prep option throughout the week, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings. Try making this delightful recipe today!