Creamy Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup with Herbed Croutons

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup with Herbed Croutons
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American, European
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted; 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup); 2 carrots, diced (about 1 cup); 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp dried thyme; 4 cups (1 L) vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium recommended); 1 cup (240 ml) water (optional, adjust for consistency); 1 cup (150 g) diced ham or bacon (optional for a vegetarian version); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups (about 100 g) cubed stale bread; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs; Pinch of salt

Craving the best split pea soup recipe for slow cooker? Try my creamy herb-infused version! Perfect for a cozy night in. Get the recipe inside!

May 10, 2025
By Julian Ashcroft.

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0 Out of 5 Based on: 0 Ratings.

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Comfort in a Bowl: My Go-To Split Pea Soup Recipe for Slow Cooker

Oh my gosh, there’s nothing quite like the smell of split pea soup bubbling away in your kitchen on a chilly evening! it brings me back to those cozy family dinners where the table was filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, a big ol’ pot of soup.

If you’re looking for that heartwarming meal that warms your soul, let me introduce you to this creamy slow cooker split pea soup topped with herbed croutons.

Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl.

A Taste of History

Split pea soup has roots stretching back to ancient times. think about it: it’s been a favorite in kitchens from europe to north america.

Back in the day, folks would use whatever they had on hand. dried peas were a staple because they were affordable and stored well.

Nowadays, split pea soup is more popular than ever, especially in the age of meal prepping and cozy comfort food.

This recipe is ideal for busy weekdays or weekends when you’ve got a house full of guests. you just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic.

Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that practically cooks itself?

Time-wise , you’re looking at around 15 minutes of prep, and after that, just let it simmer for 6- 8 hours on low.

It’s a total time-saver! and don’t worry about breaking the bank; this meal is super budget-friendly. you can easily stretch a single pot to feed a family of six!

Benefits Galore

Now, let’s talk about the benefits. first off, this recipe is packed with protein and fiber. one serving is about 250 calories and delivers a solid punch of nutrients.

It’s like nature's gift in a bowl! plus, if you’re like me and need a little pick-me-up on those dreary days, this soup always hits the spot.

Another bonus? the dish is versatile! whether it’s a casual get-together or a fancy sunday dinner, it’s an easy choice for any occasion.

I’ve brought this to potlucks, and trust me, it's always a crowd-pleaser. people rave about it, and by the end of the night, there’s rarely any left!

When it comes to notables, this isn’t just any split pea soup. the smokiness from the ham or the ham hock adds an incredible depth of flavor—making it the best split pea and ham soup you’ll ever try! it’s comforting like a warm blanket, and nobody has to know just how easy it was to make.

Let’s look into into the Ingredients!

Alright, my fellow food lovers, I know you’re itching to start cooking! Here's what you'll need:

1 lb dried green split peas
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
Optional: 1 cup diced ham or bacon
And, if you wanna get fancy, some stale bread for croutons!

This recipe is as simple as it gets. Just toss everything into the Crockpot , and you're on your way to a delicious meal.

So there you have it! from history to health benefits, i can assure you that this split pea soup recipe for slow cooker is going to become a regular star in your kitchen.

Next up, i’ll walk you through the simple instructions to whip this up and enjoy an evening with the perfect bowl of comfort.

Let’s do this!

Creamy Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup with Herbed Croutons ingredients

Essential Ingredients Guide for the Perfect Split Pea Soup

Alright, friends! let’s chat about the essentials you’ll want for a banging split pea soup recipe for slow cooker. this hearty dish is a staple that brings back memories and a comforting warmth on cold days.

Plus, using a slow cooker? total game changer! you can literally set it and forget it. yep, i said it!

Premium Core Components

First things first, you need quality ingredients. Here’s what you should look for:

Measurements matter: whether you're measuring in cups or grams, precision is key! for instance, you’ll need about 1 lb (450 g) of dried green split peas.

It’s like getting the right amount of players for the big game!
Quality Indicators: When shopping, look for split peas that are bright green, not dull or yellow. Avoid splits or tiny stones—nobody wants a crunchy surprise!
Storage guidelines: keep those split peas in a cool, dry place. if stored properly, they can last up to two years ! just make sure to check for moisture or bugs.

Trust me, you don’t want to dive into that bowl and find something unidentifiable.
Freshness Tips: Always give your split peas a rinse before using. Seriously! It’s like washing your hands before dinner. You wouldn’t skip that step, right?

Signature Seasoning Blend

Now let’s make this soup sing. Here’s how to add some personality to your bowl!

Essential Spice Combinations: A simple mix of salt, pepper , and maybe a little thyme goes a long way. If you wanna spice it up, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper!
Herb Selections: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme are great for finishing touches, giving it a pop of freshness. If you prefer dried herbs? That works too!
Flavor Enhancers: A good ham hock or ham bone makes the soup richer. Seriously, nothing beats that smoky flavor!
Regional Variations: Did you know in some regions they even add carrots and celery? Talk about a flavor party!

Smart Substitutions

Let’s say you’re out of something. No worries, I got your back!

Common Alternatives: If you're low on split peas, you can actually substitute with lentils ! Just adjust your cooking time a bit.
Dietary Modifications: No ham? No problem! Use vegetable broth and get that same cozy feeling without the meat.
Emergency Replacements: Running low on broth? Throw in water, but lower the salt if you use it.
Seasonal Options: Depending on the season, you could add seasonal veggies like butternut squash . Yum!

Kitchen Equipment Essentials

Now let’s talk gear. You need the right tools to keep the soup-making stress-free!

Must-have tools: obviously, your trusty slow cooker is number one. i mean, hello, it's a crock-pot for the win! you'll also want a cutting board and a good chef’s knife.

Nothing fancy, just reliable.
Alternative Options: If you don't have a slow cooker, you can always use a stovetop pot, just watch it closely!
Preparation Tips: Mise en place (fancy chef talk for “everything in its place”) makes cooking easier. Chop your veggies ahead of time!
Storage Solutions: Make sure to store leftovers in airtight containers. This soup just gets better with time, like fine wine—well, sort of!

And there you have it, all the basics you need to make the best split pea and ham soup that’ll have your friends begging for the recipe.

After all this pre-gaming with the ingredients, let’s dive into how to actually make this magical dish. ready to get cooking? let’s make some creamy slow cooker split pea soup with herbed croutons! you won't regret it!

Creamy Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup with Herbed Croutons steps

Mastering the Art of Slow-Cooked Split Pea Soup

Oh my gosh, let’s talk about a classic comfort food : split pea soup! seriously, if you haven’t had a bowl of this hearty goodness, what are you doing with your life? it’s like a warm hug from the inside, and with a slow cooker , it pretty much cooks itself! so grab your favorite crockpot because we’re diving into a split pea soup recipe for slow cooker that’s going to make you wonder why you ever settled for anything else.

Essential Preparation Steps

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s chat about mise en place . it’s french for “everything in its place”—and no, not just a fancy term to impress your friends! it means gathering all your ingredients and prepping them ahead of time.

For this soup, you’ll want to rinse and sort 1 pound of dried green split peas , chop a medium onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks, and mince some garlic.

It sounds like a lot, but trust me, it's worth it !

Time management is also key here. you can prep everything in about 15 minutes . set a timer if you need to! once that’s done, the slow cooker takes over.

Seriously, you’re going to feel so accomplished with minimal effort. just toss everything in and let it work its magic for 6- 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high .

Talk about a no-fuss meal!

Don’t forget organization strategies! Make sure your cutting board is clean and you have everything ready to go. And of course, safety first: watch those knives. Slice and dice with caution, folks!

Step-by-Step Process

Prep the Ingredients : Rinse your split peas under cold water. It’s like a mini spa day for them!
Mix it up : in your slow cooker, combine the split peas, diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, and a bay leaf.

Add about 4 cups of low-sodium broth and 1 cup of water (if you like it a bit thinner, add more).
Season and cook : season with salt and pepper. just a pinch! cover that bad boy up and cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 4 hours .

Easy peasy!
Croutons time! : about an hour before serving, preheat your oven to 375° f . toss some stale bread cubes with olive oil, oregano, and a little salt, then bake ’til golden, usually 10- 15 minutes .

You want crunchy croutons to top off that creamy soup!
Optional Blend : Once your soup is done, remove the bay leaf and give it a quick blend with a hand blender if you want a creamier texture.
Serve It : Ladle into bowls, throw on those herbed croutons, and dig in!

Expert Techniques

You’ve nailed it! but maybe you want to squeeze out even more flavor? use a ham bone or a ham hock in this recipe for that savory depth.

Don’t have one? no problem! just toss in 1 cup of diced ham or bacon instead. it’s like upgrading from a regular pizza to pepperoni! focusing on temperature control is crucial as well: aim for low and slow—let that flavor meld beautifully.

Success Strategies

Now, let’s talk about common mistakes. don’t skip rinsing your split peas. you’ll thank me later! and if your soup is too thick once it’s cooked, just stir in some extra broth or water.

That’s the beauty of a slow cooker —easy to adjust as you go! lastly, if you want to make it ahead, this soup actually tastes better the next day, so whip it up a day in advance.

Just warm it up, and you’re good to go!

Additional Information

This split pea and ham soup is not just tasty; it’s nutritious too—packed with protein, fiber, and perfect for cozy evenings in.

Whether it’s a rainy day or you’re feeding a crowd, you just can’t go wrong. plus, it pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread and a side salad.

So are you ready to get cooking? your future self is going to thank you for this dinner win!

Creamy Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup with Herbed Croutons presentation

Pro Tips & Secrets for Your Split Pea Soup Recipe for Slow Cooker

So, let’s dive right into the nitty-gritty! i’m all about those pro tips that can take your split pea soup to the next level.

First off, if you’re a bit nervous about soups, don’t be! this split pea soup recipe for slow cooker is seriously easy peasy.

You’re just chopping a few veggies and letting your slow cooker work its magic.

Chef's Personal Insights

One key insight is to rinse your split peas thoroughly. seriously, you want them clean! it helps get rid of any debris.

And don’t skimp on the seasoning. i like to toss in a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a splash of lemon juice right before serving.

It really amps up those earthy flavors and makes it pop!

Time-Saving Techniques

Here’s a time-saver: prep your veggies the night before! just chop those onions, carrots, and celery, tuck them in the fridge, and you’ll be ready to rock in the morning.

This way, all you gotta do is throw everything into the slow cooker at breakfast and return home to a delicious dinner.

Flavor Enhancement Tips

Now, if you’re looking for some deep flavor, consider tossing in that leftover ham bone or a ham hock to really jazz things up.

The best part? you get that smoky goodness without doing much. if you wanna go vegetarian, fear not! just use a robust vegetable broth and load up on fresh herbs when serving.

Perfect Presentation

Okay, let’s talk presentation ! because who doesn’t love a meal that looks as good as it tastes? when you ladle out your creamy split pea soup, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top.

For an extra pop, toss on some homemade herbed croutons—trust me; they’re a game changer. i mean, who doesn’t love a good crunch?

Plating Techniques

I like to serve my soup in a wide bowl. it gives it a more inviting feel, plus it allows that gorgeous green color to shine.

You can even swirl a little bit of olive oil on top for that fancy restaurant vibe.

Garnish Ideas

Don’t forget the garnishes! a little dollop of sour cream or a swirl of greek yogurt gives it a creamy texture.

And those croutons? they add just the right amount of crunch and flavor to intensify the overall experience.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Let’s not skip the practical stuff, shall we? this soup makes for great leftovers. just store in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days .

If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months . just be sure to leave some room in your container since liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Instructions

When it comes time to reheat, i suggest warming it on the stove over low heat. you might need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it thickens too much in the fridge.

Creative Variations

This is where the fun really begins! want to switch things up? try making a french pea soup with ham by blitzing some fresh herbs right into the mix.

Or turn it into a spicy affair by adding diced jalapeños for a little kick. you can also play around with different beans—feel free to throw in some lentils or even black beans for a twist.

Complete Nutrition Guide

Okay, let’s tackle the nutrition part. This soup is not just tasty but packed with protein and fiber. Plus, you’re getting all those vitamins from your veggies.

Portion Guidance

A serving size is about 1 to 1.5 cups. I always say, listen to your body! If you’re still hungry, go for a bit more. Your appetite knows best.

In conclusion, whether you're making this for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this split pea soup recipe for slow cooker is bound to be a hit.

The warm flavors of split soup pea and the smokiness of your meat add up to perfect comfort food.

So grab that slow cooker, and make this easy, hearty soup. It’s a hug in a bowl, and you deserve it! Happy cooking, my friend!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season my split pea soup recipe for slow cooker?

For the best flavor, stick to the basics like salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. You can also experiment by adding smoked paprika for a richer taste or a pinch of cayenne for some heat. Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed!

Can I make this split pea soup recipe for slow cooker vegan?

Absolutely! To keep it vegan, simply omit the ham or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The hearty split peas will still provide a satisfying texture and flavor, making it a great option for everyone!

How long can I store leftovers of split pea soup?

Your leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-5 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the soup in individual portions; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just reheat and enjoy whenever you fancy!

What can I serve with split pea soup?

Pair your soup with some crusty artisan bread or herbed croutons for a delightful crunch. A fresh green salad topped with a zingy vinaigrette also goes beautifully, ensuring you have a well-rounded meal. For a true British experience, a pot of tea would be lovely!

Can I use different types of peas in this recipe?

While this recipe specifically calls for dried green split peas, you can substitute yellow split peas if that's what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly, so make sure to check for doneness!

How do I make split pea soup creamier?

If you prefer a creamier texture, simply blend a portion of the soup once it's cooked using a hand blender or transfer some to a standard blender. You can also stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk just before serving, which adds richness without overwhelming the soup's lovely flavors!