If youβre craving a warm, filling, and budget-friendly meal, this Crockpot Split Pea Soup is exactly what you need. Slow-cooked to perfection, itβs thick, creamy (without cream!), and packed with smoky, savory flavor.
Perfect for chilly days, meal prep, or when you want a no-fuss dinner that practically cooks itself.
π₯ Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Set it and forget it (slow cooker friendly)
- Thick, creamy texture without dairy
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- High in protein and fiber
- Perfect for leftovers
π Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried split peas (rinsed)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 carrots (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Flavor Base:
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced ham
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust later)
- Β½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
π² How to Make Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
- Rinse split peas thoroughly
- Chop all vegetables
Step 2: Add to Crockpot
- Add split peas, vegetables, garlic, and ham
- Pour in broth
- Add seasonings and bay leaf
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cook on LOW for 7β8 hours
OR - Cook on HIGH for 4β5 hours
π Soup should become thick and creamy
Step 4: Finish
- Remove ham hock (if used), shred meat, and return to soup
- Remove bay leaf
- Stir and adjust seasoning
Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot and enjoy
π½οΈ What to Serve with Split Pea Soup
Pair with:
- Crusty bread π₯
- Garlic toast
- Side salad π₯
π Pro Tips for Best Results
- No soaking needed for split peas
- Stir occasionally if possible
- Add more broth if soup gets too thick
- Let it sitβit thickens even more
π Variations
π₯ Bacon Version
Use crispy bacon instead of ham.
π± Vegetarian Option
Skip meat and use vegetable broth.
πΆοΈ Spicy Twist
Add chili flakes or smoked paprika.
π₯ Chunky Style
Add diced potatoes for extra texture.