Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green split peas; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1 cup diced ham or bacon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup on cozy weekends; it's a simple way to warm up and nourish my family. The slow-cooking method allows the peas to break down perfectly, creating a creamy texture without the need for dairy. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. It's easy to throw everything in before heading out for the day, and when I return, I’m greeted with a delightful aroma that makes it all worthwhile. Enjoying this soup reminds me of home cooking at its best!

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:22:16.269Z

When I first tried split pea soup, I was amazed at how filling and flavorful it could be. I made it in my trusty crockpot, letting the ingredients meld together slowly while I went about my day. The result was a meal that not only comforted me but also kept me satisfied for hours. A tip I discovered is to blend a portion of the soup for an even creamier texture, which is perfect for those who love a smooth soup experience.

This Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup is not just for cold days; it's versatile enough to enjoy year-round. I often add in leftover vegetables to save them from going to waste, and they only enhance the flavor. Each bowl is a nourishing delight that I’m proud to serve to my family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and nutritious with protein-packed split peas
Rich flavor with a hint of smokiness from the ham
Easy to make with minimal hands-on time

      

Understanding Split Peas

Choosing the right split peas is crucial for achieving the desired texture in your soup. Dried green split peas are ideal as they hold their shape well while still breaking down to provide creaminess. When rinsing, ensure to remove any debris, as this can affect the soup's purity. A good rinse also helps to remove excess starch, preventing the soup from becoming overly thick.

Split peas typically cook to a soft consistency, turning creamy as they absorb liquid in the crockpot. Monitoring the cooking time is key; if they are undercooked, the result can be grainy rather than velvety. If you notice the soup thickening too much before it's finished cooking, I suggest adding an extra half cup of broth to keep it soupy.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

This recipe benefits greatly from the addition of aromatics like garlic and onion, which create a robust base. To deepen the flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic briefly before adding them to the crockpot. This step activates natural sugars, enhancing sweetness while also improving overall depth. It’s especially helpful if you’re looking to avoid adding excess salt later.

For those who enjoy a smoky flavor, including a ham hock or smoked bacon gives the dish a rich, savory undertone. If you're aiming for a vegetarian option, liquid smoke or smoked paprika can impart a similar essence without the meat. Both variations pair beautifully with the earthy taste of split peas.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your delicious soup:

Soup Ingredients

1 cup dried green split peas
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 cup diced ham or bacon

Make sure to rinse the split peas before adding them to the pot.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside. Prepare your vegetables by chopping the onion, carrots, and celery, and mincing the garlic.

Combine in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the rinsed split peas, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, vegetable broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, and optional ham or bacon. Stir to combine the ingredients.

Cook the Soup

Cover the crockpot and set to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the peas are soft and the soup is thickened.

Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you'd like a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread!

Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar just before serving. It brightens up the whole dish!

Storage and Reheating

Storing split pea soup is a breeze! Once cooled, transfer the soup to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to five days. The flavors often improve after sitting, as the ingredients meld together beautifully. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup, where it will keep well for up to three months. Just ensure to leave some space in the container for expansion during freezing.

To reheat, gently thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen up the texture, which tends to thicken when refrigerated. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to revive perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup, consider pairing it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top provide a pop of freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich flavors. Additionally, a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the dish to another level.

Feel free to personalize each bowl! I enjoy adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for those who like a little heat, or diced avocado for extra creaminess. This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy the soup exactly how they like it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the ham or bacon and use vegetable broth.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding smoked paprika, cumin, or even a dash of hot sauce for a little kick!