As I stood by the stove, the air filled with the comforting aroma of smoky bacon and earthy peas, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. This Hearty Split Pea Soup has a special place in my heart, reminding me of chilly evenings spent around the table with family. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a protein-packed hug in a bowl, perfect for those nights when you need a little extra warmth. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; whether you fancy the slow embrace of a Crock Pot, the quick efficiency of an Instant Pot, or the classic stovetop method, you can create something truly delightful and satisfying. With wholesome ingredients and effortless prep, this comforting soup is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Curious to learn how to whip it up? Let’s dive into the steps that will elevate your mealtime with this delightful dish!

Why is Split Pea Soup a Must-Make?

Hearty Comfort: This split pea soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something rich and satisfying.

Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein from split peas and ham, you’ll feel nourished and full without the heaviness of fast food.

Flavorful Depth: The smoky bacon, smoky paprika, and earthy thyme combine for a robust flavor that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Versatile Preparation: Whether you’re using a stovetop, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot, this recipe adapts easily to your cooking style.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, making mealtime a breeze! For more delicious soup ideas, consider trying my hearty Vegetable Soup Cozy or the vibrant Turmeric Chicken Soup.

Split Pea Soup Ingredients

• A delightful mix of wholesome elements awaits!

For the Soup Base

Bacon – Adds richness and depth to the soup. Substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Yellow Onion – Provides foundational sweetness and flavor. Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Celery – Enhances the soup’s aromatic base; finely chop for even cooking.
Carrots – Contributes sweetness and color; try parsnips for a unique twist.
Garlic – Offers pungency and aromatic flavor. Quick alternative: garlic powder.
Chicken Stock – Forms the soup’s liquid base; substitute with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
Dried Split Peas – The main ingredient thickening the soup; rinse thoroughly before use.

For Flavor

Thyme – Adds earthy herbal notes; dried thyme works too, just reduce the amount slightly.
Smoked Paprika – Provides a smoky flavor that complements the bacon and ham; substitute with regular paprika and a splash of liquid smoke for depth.
Smoked Ham – Introduces a savory, meaty component; leave out for a vegetarian option and add more seasoning.
Sea Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
Parsley (optional) – Used for garnish; adds a touch of freshness to the soup.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Split Pea Soup

Step 1: Sauté Bacon
Begin by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Once browned, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel to drain, while reserving the rendered fat in the pot for the next steps.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables
In the same pot with the bacon fat, add finely chopped yellow onion, celery, and diced carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become aromatic, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Pour in 6 cups of chicken stock into the pot, then add the rinsed dried split peas, thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well, ensuring all ingredients are combined. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a rolling boil, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the split peas are very soft and the soup has thickened, transforming into a comforting, hearty consistency.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a creamier texture for your hearty split pea soup, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer about half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, then return it to the pot. This step enhances the velvety feel without losing all the lovely chunks.

Step 6: Finish
Finally, stir in the reserved crispy bacon and any diced smoked ham if using. Allow the soup to heat through for another 5 minutes, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Once heated, ladle the soup into bowls, and serve it hot, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

What to Serve with Hearty Split Pea Soup?

Pair this comforting soup with sides that enhance its flavors and textures, creating a well-rounded meal that delights every palate.

Crusty Parker House Rolls: Their soft, fluffy interior and golden crust are perfect for soaking up the savory broth, making each bite even more satisfying.
Italian Garden Salad: A crisp salad with fresh greens and tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that brightens the hearty richness of the soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: Chewy and seasoned just right, these breadsticks provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup, making for a cozy, indulgent experience.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This velvety side mirrors the soup’s texture while complementing its flavors, creating a truly comforting dining experience that warms the soul.
Apple Salad with Walnuts: The sweetness of apples and the nutty crunch of walnuts offer a delightful balance to the smoky notes in the soup, enhancing its overall flavor.
Homemade Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The crispy, cheesy layers are a perfect accompaniment to the warmth of split pea soup, making it a nostalgic and delicious pairing.
Brewed Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea can cleanse the palate and infuse warmth during chilly evenings, perfectly rounding off this comforting meal.
Dark Chocolate Squares: A small piece of rich dark chocolate serves as a sweet ending, beautifully contrasting with the savory soup and harmonizing the meal experience.

How to Store and Freeze Split Pea Soup

Fridge: Store leftover split pea soup in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 3 days, keeping the flavors fresh and delightful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags, where it can remain good for up to 3 months. Ensure to leave some space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of stock or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Preparing the soup ahead of time is great for busy weeknights. Just follow the storage instructions to keep it delicious!

Expert Tips for Perfect Split Pea Soup

Crispy Bacon: Ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy; this imparts maximum flavor to the rendered fat used for sautéing.
Texture Control: For a creamy split pea soup, blend only part of the mixture. Over-blending will lose the lovely texture of the peas and veggies.
Season Wisely: Always taste your soup in the final moments of cooking. Adjust the sea salt and black pepper to ensure balanced flavors.
Rinse Peas: Don’t skip rinsing the dried split peas before use. This removes any dust or impurities, promoting the best final flavor.
Storage Savvy: Leftover soup can be stored in airtight containers for up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to add a bit of stock or water when reheating.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian split pea soup, simply leave out the ham and add extra vegetables or seasonings for depth of flavor.

Split Pea Soup Variations to Try

Feel free to explore these enticing variations to make the split pea soup your own, turning a classic dish into a personalized masterpiece!

Lentil Twist: Swap split peas for green or brown lentils for a quicker cooking option that provides a similar hearty texture.
Vegetable Medley: Add chopped spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients and a pop of color, making each spoonful even more delightful.
Ham Hock Depth: Include a ham hock during cooking for added flavor, just remember to catch it before serving for a savory surprise.
Smoky Boost: Use diced smoked sausage or smoked turkey in place of ham for a deeper, bolder flavor with every bite.
Spice It Up: For a kick, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. The warmth will invite you back for seconds!
Coconut Creamy: Stir in some coconut milk in the last few moments of cooking to lend a creamy, tropical twist that elevates the flavor profile completely!
Herbal Shift: Swap thyme for fresh dill or rosemary to mix up the herb profile, bringing a bright aroma and flavor shift to the dish.
Vegan-Friendly: Leave out the ham completely and boost flavors with smoked paprika and liquid smoke for a veggie-rich delight that everyone can enjoy.

For more comforting soups to warm your soul, be sure to check out my hearty Vegetable Soup Hearty or for a twist of the exotic, try the Thai Coconut Soup.

Make Ahead Options

These Hearty Split Pea Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onions, celery, and carrots) and store them in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, rinse and soak the split peas the night before for quicker cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply sauté the bacon, add the prepped veggies, and follow through with the remaining steps. To maintain quality, refrigerate any leftovers promptly and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of stock as needed for the perfect consistency. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a hearty meal ready with minimal effort!

Split Pea Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of split peas should I use?
Absolutely! For this recipe, yellow split peas are the traditional choice, but green split peas work just as well. They’re both dried legumes, packed with protein and flavor, so feel free to use whichever you prefer. Just ensure that they’re properly rinsed before cooking to remove any dust!

How should I store leftover split pea soup?
Very simple! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the fridge, your soup will stay fresh for about 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months, by using freezer-safe containers or bags. When reheating, add a splash of stock or water to bring it back to your desired consistency.

Can I freeze split pea soup?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into marked airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to leave some space at the top for expansion. It’s best to consume the frozen soup within 3 months for optimal taste. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove over low heat.

What if my split pea soup is too thick?
Don’t worry! If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in some additional chicken stock or water until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently over low until warmed through. Taste and adjust seasonings, and it’ll be as good as new!

Is split pea soup healthy?
Absolutely! This hearty split pea soup is not only high in protein but also filled with dietary fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying option. With the use of fresh vegetables and the ability to control the amount of salt, you can tailor it to meet your dietary needs. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham in a wholesome dish!