When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something warm, hearty, and deeply comforting, Slow Cooker Pea and Ham Soup is the perfect solution. This classic soup combines tender split peas, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables in a rich broth that slowly develops flavor throughout the day.

Using a slow cooker makes this recipe incredibly convenient. Simply add the ingredients, let them simmer gently for several hours, and return to a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of homemade soup.

Packed with protein, fiber, and satisfying flavor, this slow cooker pea and ham soup recipe is a timeless comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations.

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Why You’ll Love This Soup

There are many reasons why this dish remains one of the most beloved traditional soups.

Easy to Make

The slow cooker does all the work, making this recipe perfect for busy days.

Budget Friendly

Split peas and ham are affordable ingredients that create a filling meal.

Nutritious

Split peas are loaded with fiber and plant-based protein.

Perfect for Leftovers

This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

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Ingredients

Soup Base

• 2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
• 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced (or a ham bone)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth

Seasonings

• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Optional Additions

• 1 potato, diced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Rinse the Split Peas

Place the split peas in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Remove any debris or small stones.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. These vegetables form the classic aromatic base known as mirepoix, which adds depth of flavor to the soup.

3. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Place the rinsed split peas into the slow cooker. Add the diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.

4. Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker, ensuring the ingredients are fully covered.

5. Season the Soup

Add the bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and salt.

6. Cook the Soup

Cover and cook:

• Low: 7–8 hours
• High: 4–5 hours

The peas will soften and naturally thicken the soup as they cook.

7. Remove the Bay Leaf

Before serving, remove and discard the bay leaf.

8. Adjust the Texture

If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while leaving some chunks for texture.

9. Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and add additional salt or pepper if needed.

10. Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

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Tips for the Best Pea and Ham Soup

Use a Ham Bone

A leftover ham bone adds incredible depth of flavor and richness to the soup.

Don’t Skip the Aromatics

Onions, carrots, and celery provide the foundation for the soup’s flavor.

Adjust Thickness

Split peas naturally thicken the soup, but you can add more broth if it becomes too thick.

Make It Creamier

Blend half the soup for a creamy texture while keeping some chunky pieces.

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Variations to Try

Vegetarian Split Pea Soup

Replace the ham with smoked paprika and vegetable broth.

Spicy Pea Soup

Add red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper.

Bacon Pea Soup

Swap the ham for crispy bacon pieces.

Herbed Version

Add rosemary or parsley for additional herbal flavor.

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What to Serve with Pea and Ham Soup

This hearty soup pairs perfectly with simple sides.

Crusty Bread

Perfect for dipping into the thick, flavorful broth.

Garlic Toast

Adds a crunchy and aromatic contrast.

Green Salad

A light salad balances the richness of the soup.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A classic comfort food pairing.

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Storage and Freezing

Refrigerator

Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

This soup freezes extremely well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a little broth if the soup becomes too thick.

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Nutritional Benefits of Split Peas

Split peas are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.

They are rich in:

• Fiber
• Protein
• Iron
• Potassium
• Vitamins B1 and B6

These nutrients make split pea soup a filling and healthy meal option.

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A Classic Comfort Food

Pea and ham soup has been a beloved dish for centuries across many cultures. Historically, it was popular because dried peas were easy to store and inexpensive, making them a staple in many kitchens.

The addition of ham added flavor and protein, creating a hearty meal that could feed families during cold months.

Today, the combination of split peas and ham remains one of the most comforting and satisfying soups you can make at home.

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Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pea and Ham Soup is a timeless comfort food that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to blend beautifully, creating a thick, hearty soup that warms both body and soul.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a cozy bowl of soup, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.