Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners is the ultimate bowl of cozy comfort, brimming with tender ham, earthy peas, and a velvety broth. It comes together with pantry staples you probably already have, making it an easy, budget‑friendly weeknight dinner. The soup’s creamy texture is balanced by a hint of smoky ham, so you’ll feel warm with every spoonful. Pair it with my Creamy Pistachio Baklava Cheesecake Recipe for a sweet finish that’s surprisingly delightful.
★★★★½ 4.5 (99 reviews)
Why You'll Love Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners – Easy Homemade Comfort Food
Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners offers a quick, family‑friendly way to enjoy hearty comfort food. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty, satisfying comfort food that warms you from the inside out.
- Uses pantry staples—split peas, ham, and broth—so it’s budget‑friendly.
- Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Freezes and reheats beautifully for easy meal prep.
Ingredients
- Smoked ham: Use leftover smoked ham or a good quality smoked turkey ham; substitute with cooked ham steak if needed.
- Split peas: Green split peas give the classic color and texture; yellow peas work but change flavor slightly.
- Chicken broth: Low‑sodium broth keeps the soup from getting too salty; homemade broth is best.
Instructions
Step 1 – Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic; cook 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2 – Toast peas & add ham: Stir in the rinsed split peas and cubed ham; cook 2 minutes to release a little smoky flavor.
Step 3 – Add liquids & season: Pour in chicken broth and water. Add bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
Expert Tips for Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners – Easy Homemade Comfort Food
- Rinse split peas well to remove dust; this prevents gritty texture.
- For extra depth, deglaze the sauté pan with a splash of white wine before adding broth.
- If the soup becomes too thick, stir in a little more broth or water until desired consistency.
Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners – Easy Homemade Comfort Food
Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners offers a quick, family‑friendly way to enjoy hearty comfort food. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
★★★★½ 4.5 (99 reviews)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked ham, cubed
- 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed
- 4 cups low‑sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Croutons or crispy bacon bits
Instructions
How to Make Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners
- Step 1 – Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic; cook 5 minutes until softened.
- Step 2 – Toast peas & add ham: Stir in the rinsed split peas and cubed ham; cook 2 minutes to release a little smoky flavor.
- Step 3 – Add liquids & season: Pour in chicken broth and water. Add bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Step 4 – Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 25‑30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and the soup thickens.
- Step 5 – Finish & serve: Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and ladle into bowls. Garnish with parsley and optional croutons or bacon bits.
FAQs
Can I make Classic Ham and Split Pea Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors improve after a few hours in the fridge, and it freezes beautifully for later meals.
What’s the best substitute for smoked ham?
Use cooked turkey ham, a ham steak, or for a vegetarian version, add smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool the soup to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.
Why did my soup turn out too thick?
Split peas absorb a lot of liquid. Thin the soup with extra broth, water, or a splash of milk while reheating.