Warm, hearty, and full of flavor — this split pea soup with honey baked ham is the perfect comfort food. It’s easy to make and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re using leftover ham or a ham bone, this recipe will become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups split peas (rinsed and sorted)
- 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups chopped honey baked ham
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 carrots (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 bay leaf
- 6–8 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start with a Flavorful Base
Heat oil or butter in a large soup pot. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until soft. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add Split Peas and Ham
Pour in the rinsed split peas, and add your ham bone or chopped honey baked ham. Mix everything gently to combine the flavors.
3. Pour in the Broth
Add chicken broth until everything is covered (about 6–8 cups). Drop in a bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Let It Simmer
Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 1–1.5 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The peas will break down and make the soup thick and creamy.
5. Remove Ham Bone and Shred Meat
If using a ham bone, take it out once the soup is done. Shred any meat left on the bone and return it to the pot. Discard the bone.
6. Season and Serve
Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot!
Pro Tips
- Want a smoother soup? Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.
- Add a dash of honey for extra sweetness to match the baked ham flavor.
- This soup thickens as it cools — just add a little broth or water when reheating.
Best Served With:
- Crusty bread
- Cornbread
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- It’s budget-friendly and makes a big batch.
- A great way to use leftover ham.
- Packed with protein and fiber from split peas.
- Naturally gluten-free!
FAQs
1. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the ham and use vegetable broth. Add extra veggies or smoked paprika for depth.
2. Do I have to soak the split peas?
Nope! Green split peas cook quickly and don’t need soaking.
3. Can I use smoked turkey instead of ham?
Absolutely — smoked turkey legs or wings are a great substitute.
4. Why is my soup too thick?
Just add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
5. What’s the best way to reheat split pea soup?
Reheat it slowly on the stove over low heat. Stir and add liquid if it’s too thick.
Final Thoughts
This honey baked ham split pea soup is a cozy, delicious way to warm up on a cold day. It’s easy to make, full of comforting flavors, and perfect for meal prep. Try it once — you’ll want to make it again and again!
