This Split Pea Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food — thick, hearty, and full of savory flavor. It’s made the traditional way with a meaty ham bone, tender carrots, onions, potatoes, and split peas that simmer together into a rich, creamy soup. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in the Instant Pot, or in your slow cooker, this old-fashioned recipe turns simple ingredients into something truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This classic soup comes straight from an old family cookbook and has stood the test of time. It’s rustic, flavorful, and the definition of comfort in a bowl. The secret? A meaty ham bone that adds incredible depth to every spoonful. If you’re craving a soul-warming meal, this split pea soup is it — and it couldn’t be easier to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Split peas: Rinsed and ready to simmer — no soaking required!
- Ham bone: Adds that deep, smoky, meaty flavor that makes this soup irresistible.
- Ham: Shredded or diced, added at the end for extra heartiness.
- Vegetables: Carrots, onions, and potatoes create a flavorful base.
- Seasonings: Garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and onion powder for rich, savory depth.
- Butter & olive oil: Add a touch of richness to the broth.
- Water or broth: Adjust for your desired thickness.
How to Make Split Pea Soup
1. Build the flavor base:
Add the ham bone, split peas, onions, butter, olive oil, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and water to a large Dutch oven or soup pot.
2. Simmer low and slow:
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer partially covered for about 2½ hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Add veggies:
About 40 minutes before serving, stir in the diced carrots and potatoes.
4. Shred the ham:
Once the vegetables are fork-tender, remove the ham bone, bay leaves, and thyme stems. Shred or chop 2 cups of ham from the bone and return it to the pot. Stir to combine, taste, and adjust seasonings.
The result? A thick, creamy, smoky soup that only gets better as it sits.
Pro Tips for the Best Split Pea Soup
- No soaking needed: Split peas cook beautifully without soaking.
- Use a meaty ham bone: It’s the secret to rich, flavorful broth.
- Too thick? Add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
- Want extra flavor? Add a few chicken bouillon cubes if your ham bone isn’t very meaty.
- Simmer longer for creamier texture: The more it cooks, the richer and thicker it gets.
Substitutions
- No ham bone? Use a smoked ham hock, bone-in pork shoulder, or diced ham steak.
- No ham at all? Add chopped bacon or salted pork for smoky flavor.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on low heat.
This soup freezes beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners!
More Cozy Soup Recipes
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Final Thoughts
This old-fashioned Split Pea Soup with Ham Bone is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly comforting — just like grandma used to make. Every bowl is packed with smoky ham, tender vegetables, and creamy split peas that thicken naturally as they simmer. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out — simple, satisfying, and always delicious.