Cozy Split Pea Soup Recipe with Ham & Veggies

Posted on November 12, 2025

There’s something magical about a bowl of warm, comforting soup on a chilly day, isn’t there? This cozy split pea soup with ham and veggies is the kind of recipe that wraps you in a big hug with every spoonful. I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for ways to use up leftover holiday ham, and let me tell you—it’s been a family favorite ever since. With its creamy texture, smoky ham flavor, and hearty vegetables, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prepping. Whether you’re new to cooking soups or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become your go-to for chilly nights or when you’re craving something wholesome and satisfying.

This cozy split pea soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients from the peas and veggies, making it a hearty option to fuel your day. It’s great for feeding a crowd, freezes beautifully, and pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this recipe again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Comfort Food: This soup is the definition of cozy. It’s thick, creamy, and full of flavor—ideal for warming up on cold nights.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, this recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any fancy techniques.
Uses Pantry Staples: Most of the ingredients—split peas, carrots, onions, celery, and garlic—are basic staples you likely already have on hand.
Great for Leftovers: Have leftover ham from a family dinner? This soup is the perfect way to use it up while creating a brand-new meal.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Customizable: Whether you want to make it vegetarian, add extra veggies, or spice it up, this recipe is incredibly versatile.

What makes this split pea soup stand out is the smoky ham paired with the sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the peas. The soup’s texture is thick and satisfying, but you can always adjust it to be thinner if you prefer a lighter consistency. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that somehow tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers and meal prepping. So grab your apron and let’s get started!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s your grocery list:

Split Peas: 1 pound of dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted (these are the star of the show).
Ham: 1–1.5 cups of cooked ham, diced or shredded (leftover holiday ham works perfectly).
Vegetables:

2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced

Broth: 6 cups of chicken broth (you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option).
Seasonings:

1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for sautéing the veggies.

These ingredients are simple yet create a soup that’s full of flavor. Feel free to tweak them based on your pantry or dietary needs!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to whip up this cozy split pea soup, but here’s a checklist of tools:

Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven is ideal for even cooking.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping your veggies.
Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup.
Immersion Blender (Optional): If you like your soup extra creamy, you can blend part of it.
Wooden Spoon: For stirring everything together.

If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender works too—just make sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending. And honestly, a simple pot and knife will do the trick if you’re keeping it basic!

Detailed Preparation Method

Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse and sort the split peas to remove any debris. Chop all your vegetables and dice the ham.
Sauté the Vegetables: In your large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
Add the Peas and Broth: Pour in the rinsed split peas and the chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Season: Toss in the thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
Simmer: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The peas will break down and create a thick, creamy texture.
Add the Ham: In the last 20 minutes of cooking, stir in the diced or shredded ham. Let it heat through as the flavors meld together.
Adjust the Consistency: If the soup gets too thick, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired texture. For a smoother soup, blend part of it with an immersion blender.
Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Your kitchen will smell heavenly as this soup simmers, and the result is a bowl full of cozy goodness!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to help make your split pea soup truly shine:

Rinse the Peas Thoroughly: Split peas can have dust or debris; rinsing ensures a clean soup.
Avoid Over-Salting: If you’re using salty ham or broth, wait until the end to adjust the seasoning.
Low and Slow: Let the soup simmer gently to ensure the peas soften and break down nicely.
Use an Immersion Blender: If you want a smoother texture, blend part of the soup while leaving some chunks for variety.
Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the veggies first enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers for easy meals later.

By following these tips, you’ll end up with a perfectly cooked, flavorful split pea soup every time.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Extra Veggies: Toss in diced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or parsnips for added texture and flavor.
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh dill, parsley, or even a touch of rosemary for a unique twist.

Personally, I love adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving—it brightens the flavors and adds a little zing!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This split pea soup is best served warm with a side of crusty bread or crackers. For an extra treat, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation and flavor even more.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The soup will thicken as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating it. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Freezing? No problem! Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen on the stove.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s what you’re getting in each serving of this cozy split pea soup:

Protein-Packed: Split peas and ham provide a great source of protein to keep you full.
Rich in Fiber: Split peas are loaded with fiber, supporting digestion and overall gut health.
Low-Carb: This soup is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for various diets.
Vitamins Galore: Carrots, celery, and onions bring a range of vitamins like A, C, and K.

This soup is gluten-free (just double-check your broth) and can be adapted for vegetarian diets. It’s wholesome, delicious, and nourishing—what more could you ask for?

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a hearty, cozy, and nutritious meal, this split pea soup with ham and veggies is a winner. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Personally, I love this recipe because it reminds me of family gatherings and chilly evenings spent by the fire. It’s comfort food at its finest.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you add your own twist? Let me know—I love hearing how others make it their own. And don’t forget to pin or share this recipe so others can enjoy it too. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can even add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?

No soaking is required for split peas—they cook quickly and break down beautifully during simmering.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover soup?

Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

Can I freeze split pea soup?

Yes! This soup freezes very well. Store it in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What type of ham should I use?

Any cooked ham will work—spiral-cut, smoked, or even ham steak. Leftover ham from the holidays is perfect for this recipe!