The Best Creamy Pea and Ham Soup to Warm Your Soul

Victoria

The Keeper of Heartfelt Homemade Traditions

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of pea and ham soup simmering on a chilly afternoon—the gentle aroma of smoky ham mingling with tender peas fills the kitchen with warmth. After a day craving something wholesome and homemade, this soup always hits the spot—rich, hearty, and surprisingly simple to make from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just someone tired of the same old fast food routine, this recipe brings together pantry staples in a way that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing whether it’s a quiet dinner or a gathering with friends. Let me show you how easy it is to create a pot of classic pea and ham soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why choose Pea and Ham Soup today?

Comfort in every spoonful: This classic soup delivers a rich, smoky flavor from ham paired with the natural sweetness of peas. Effortless preparation: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make it perfect for cooks of all levels. Nutritious and hearty: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s both filling and nourishing. Versatile and freezer-friendly: Ideal for meal prepping or quick warm-ups on busy days. Crowd-pleaser: A timeless recipe that wins hearts at any table, making it a go-to for family meals or friendly gatherings.

Pea and Ham Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Dried split peas – soak up flavors and become wonderfully creamy as they cook down.
Smoked ham hock – the star ingredient that infuses the soup with deep, smoky richness.
Onion – adds a savory base note that complements the peas and ham perfectly.
Carrots – provide a subtle natural sweetness and lovely color contrast.
Celery stalks – bring an earthy freshness that balances the smoky ham.
Garlic cloves – a punch of warmth and aroma that lifts the whole dish.
Chicken or vegetable stock – the flavorful liquid that helps everything come together.
Bay leaves – gently infuse the soup with herby undertones during simmering.
Salt and black pepper – season to taste, enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavor.

Optional Garnishes

Fresh parsley – chopped and sprinkled on top for a bright, herbaceous finish.
Crusty bread – perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy pea and ham soup.

The magic of this Pea and Ham Soup lies in simple, hearty ingredients blended into a comforting bowl loved by all.

How to Make Pea and Ham Soup

Rinse and Chop: Rinse dried split peas under cold water until clear. Chop onion, carrots, celery and garlic into bite-size pieces for even cooking and easy stirring.
Sauté Vegetables: Heat oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion, carrots, celery and garlic for about 5 minutes until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent.
Add Ingredients: Stir in the smoked ham hock, bay leaves and enough stock to cover. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to release flavors.
Simmer Gently: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 1 hour, until peas break down and the soup develops a creamy, thick texture.
Shred Ham: Remove the ham hock, shred the tender meat with forks, discarding bones and skin. Return shredded ham to the pot, stirring to distribute it evenly.
Season and Serve: Discard bay leaves, then taste and season with salt and black pepper. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Optional: swirl in a dollop of cream for extra silkiness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Pea and Ham Soup

Soak peas early: Soaking dried split peas for a few hours or overnight helps reduce cooking time and ensures a creamy texture without mushiness.
Choose quality ham hock: Use a smoked ham hock with good marbling for deep, smoky flavor that truly elevates your pea and ham soup.
Don’t rush the simmer: Slow simmering allows peas to break down gently, creating a richer, silkier soup—avoid high heat to prevent splitting.
Remove bones carefully: When shredding the ham, take your time to avoid any small bones sneaking into the soup.
Adjust seasoning last: Pea and ham soup needs salt added after tasting since the smoked ham already imparts saltiness—over-salting is common but avoidable.
Freeze with care: Cool the soup completely before freezing in portions to maintain its creamy consistency and ease of reheating.

How to Store and Freeze Pea and Ham Soup

Room Temperature: Enjoy your pea and ham soup warm for up to 2 hours after cooking; any leftovers should be refrigerated promptly to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for even warmth.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pea and ham soup in portioned freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of stock or water if needed for a creamy consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These comforting bowls of Pea and Ham Soup are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily prepare the soup’s base (sans liquid) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, and refrigerate them along with the dried split peas and smoked ham hock. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but keeps the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to cook, just sauté the prepared vegetables, add the ham hock and stock, and follow the rest of the steps to finish. You’ll enjoy a deliciously warm meal that’s just as satisfying, with minimal effort!

Variations & Substitutions for Pea and Ham Soup

Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe and add your own twist to it!

Vegetarian: Substitute the smoked ham hock with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a deep flavor without meat. This alternative keeps the essence while catering to a meat-free crowd.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream to elevate the richness of the soup, creating an indulgent, velvety texture. It’s a simple step that adds a luxurious finish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a warming heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the peas, making every bite thrilling!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in addition to bay leaves for a fragrant depth that uplifts your soup, wrapping your kitchen in enticing aromas.
Lentil Twist: Swap half of the split peas for green or brown lentils, adding a new texture and taste. The lentils blend seamlessly while expanding the dish’s heartiness.
Added Veggies: Toss in diced potatoes or parsnips during the simmer for extra body and a hint of sweetness, enriching the overall texture while boosting nutritional value.
Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate seasonal veggies like spinach or kale towards the end—just let them wilt. This lovely addition adds freshness and color to your comforting bowl.
Protein Boost: For a protein-packed meal, mix in cooked diced chicken or turkey in place of or along with the ham. It’s a perfect way to use leftovers and makes the soup quite filling!

What to Serve with Pea and Ham Soup?

Savoring a bowl of pea and ham soup invites the perfect opportunity to craft a delightful meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Crusty Bread: The ideal companion for dipping, crusty bread enhances the creamy texture of the soup while adding a satisfying crunch.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of arugula, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes contrasts the hearty soup and adds brightness to your meal.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Earthy roasted carrots and potatoes bring a touch of sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the smoky ham flavors.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuit: Buttery, cheesy biscuits pair perfectly; their flaky layers complement the soup’s richness, making every bite divine.
Homemade Pickles: Tangy, crunchy pickles provide a refreshing bite that cuts through the creaminess of the soup, balancing flavors perfectly.
Apple Crisp: Finish off with a warm apple crisp; its sweet, spiced goodness adds a charming end note to a comforting meal.

Pea and Ham Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my dried split peas are good to use?
Look for peas that are firm and dry without any signs of moisture or dark spots all over. Fresh split peas will have a bright green or yellow color, and they should smell fresh rather than musty. Using well-preserved peas ensures a creamy texture without bitterness.

Can I store leftover pea and ham soup in the refrigerator? If so, for how long?
Absolutely! Store your pea and ham soup in an airtight container once cooled, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, stirring often to avoid scorching and to bring back its smooth, creamy feel.

Is it possible to freeze pea and ham soup, and how do I do it correctly?
Very much so! To freeze, first cool your soup completely to room temperature. Then ladle portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on low heat, stirring in a little stock or water if it gets too thick.

What if my soup turns out too thick or grainy?
No worries—this can happen if the peas break down too much or if the soup cools. To fix it, add a splash of warm stock or water while reheating and stir thoroughly to smooth out the texture. Cooking on lower heat and stirring regularly during simmering can prevent this in future batches.

Can I make pea and ham soup if I’m avoiding pork or cooking for someone with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! For a pork-free version, swap the smoked ham hock with smoked turkey or a vegetable broth with smoked paprika for that smoky depth. If allergies or dietary restrictions apply, always double-check all ingredients and opt for low-sodium, allergy-friendly stock options to keep the soup wholesome and safe.