Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup because it’s hearty and packed with flavor. Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Every time I make this recipe, my family can’t resist coming back for seconds. The combination of split peas, vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal, especially during chilly days. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based protein into our diets!

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:49:11.393Z

When I first tried making split pea soup in a crockpot, I was amazed by how effortless the process was. I usually let it cook all day, and by dinnertime, my entire kitchen is filled with comforting aromas that make everyone excited for a warm bowl. There’s something so satisfying about seeing the peas break down and create a creamy texture without the need for heavy creams. It’s like magic!

One of my favorite aspects of this soup is how versatile it is. You can add different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. This time, I decided to throw in some carrots and celery for an extra crunch, which complemented the soup perfectly. It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and create something delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutrient-dense and packed with protein from split peas
Simple ingredients make it an easy weeknight dinner
Perfect for meal prep and freezes well for later enjoyment

      

The Role of Split Peas

Split peas are the star of this soup, offering not only a robust flavor but also a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber. I recommend using green split peas for their earthy, slightly sweet taste, which complements the earthiness of the vegetables beautifully. Make sure to rinse them well before cooking to remove any debris, which ensures a cleaner final dish. If you only have yellow split peas, feel free to use those, but note that they may result in a slightly different color and taste.

One of the keys to a great split pea soup is the cooking time. The slow cooking in the crockpot allows the peas to break down and thicken the soup naturally. However, if you notice that your split peas are taking longer than expected to become tender, this could be due to the age of the peas. Older peas can take longer to soften, so for best results, try to use fresh dried peas whenever possible.

Perfecting the Flavor

The combination of herbs and spices is crucial for flavor development in your split pea soup. The bay leaf and thyme work together to add a depth of flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the split peas and the vegetables. If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cumin for a unique twist. These spices can deepen the flavor profile and brighten the dish, especially if you enjoy a slight kick.

As for the vegetables, don't hesitate to get creative based on what you have on hand. While onions, carrots, and celery are traditional, you could also add bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure any additional vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a hearty and wholesome soup:

Ingredients

1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure everything is prepped and ready before adding to the crockpot.

Instructions

Now, follow these simple steps to prepare your soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rinsed split peas, diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.

Add to the Crockpot

Transfer the vegetable mixture into the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf and dried thyme.

Cook

Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for about 7 hours. If you’re short on time, you can also set it to high for 4 hours.

Season and Serve

Once cooking is complete, remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and blend if a smoother consistency is desired. Serve warm.

This soup is perfect with crusty bread on the side!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a pan before adding them to the crockpot. You can also add a splash of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This crockpot split pea soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the entire recipe and store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheating is simple; just warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. However, if you plan to freeze the soup, I suggest doing so without blending. The texture may change after freezing and reheating, so blend only when you're ready to enjoy it.

To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for the soup to expand. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for quicker defrosting. Once thawed, reheat gently in a pot over medium heat. If the soup appears too thick after freezing, stir in a splash of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes time to serve your Healthy Crockpot Split Pea Soup, consider pairing it with warm, crusty bread or a light, fresh salad. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the creaminess, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a bright pop of color and flavor. I often enjoy mine with a slice of whole grain bread for a satisfying meal.

For added richness, you might incorporate toppings such as crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms just before serving. These ingredients provide contrasting textures and flavors that make each bite delightful. Experiment with different toppings based on your taste preferences to make this humble soup feel more gourmet!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Is it possible to substitute the split peas?

You can use yellow split peas, but the cooking time may vary slightly.

→ Can I add meat to the soup?

Yes, adding ham or bacon can enhance the flavor significantly! Just add it during the cooking process.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate or freeze.