If you’re craving something comforting, hearty, and utterly soul-satisfying, look no further than this Crock Pot Split Pea Soup with Ham and Smoked Gouda Recipe. It’s the ultimate slow-cooker delight that marries the creaminess of tender split peas with the smoky goodness of ham, all beautifully enhanced by the rich, nutty flavor of smoked Gouda. This soup doesn’t just warm you up; it invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful, making it a treasured favorite on chilly days or whenever you need a bowl of pure comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crock Pot Split Pea Soup with Ham and Smoked Gouda Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly greater than the sum of its parts. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the split peas lending hearty creaminess or the smoked gouda adding irresistible depth and character.
- 2 cups dried split peas: Make sure to rinse and drain them well to remove any impurities for a smooth, velvety base.
- 10 cups water: The perfect amount to give your soup body and break down the peas during cooking.
- 3 tablespoons chicken bouillon: Adds a savory, umami punch that boosts all the other flavors.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse subtle earthiness that marries perfectly with the ham and vegetables.
- 2 onions (chopped): They melt into sweetness, enriching the broth with fragrant warmth.
- 2-4 cloves garlic (minced): A classic flavor enhancer that gives a gentle kick without overpowering.
- 3 stalks celery (chopped): Adds crisp freshness and slight bitterness for balance.
- 3-4 medium carrots (chopped): Bring vibrant color and natural sweetness to the pot.
- 1.5 pounds smoked ham (on the bone or ham steak): The star ingredient delivering smoky, savory richness throughout.
- 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chile powder: A subtle smoky heat that elevates the flavor complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a gentle herbaceous note for depth.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, gently rounding out the savory profile.
- 6 ounces smoked Gouda (cubed or shaved): The crowning glory with its creamy texture and smoky nuance.
How to Make Crock Pot Split Pea Soup with Ham and Smoked Gouda Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Start the Soup
Begin by rinsing and sorting your split peas carefully to remove any debris. In a large stock pot, combine the peas with 10 cups of water and 3 tablespoons of chicken bouillon, which acts like a flavor foundation. Bring this mixture to a boil on high heat for 2 minutes—this jump-starts the cooking process and helps the peas soften evenly. Next, add the bay leaves, chopped onions, minced garlic, celery, carrots, the smoked ham bone (or steak), and a dash of chipotle powder. Bring it back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to gently simmer.
Step 2: Let It Simmer to Perfection
Let your soup simmer uncovered for at least an hour and a half. This long, slow cooking is key for soft, tender vegetables and creamy split peas, while the flavors from the ham infuse the broth deeply. Once the ham is tender, remove the bone if you used one, chop the meat finely, and return it to the pot. This careful step ensures every bite has meaty goodness without bones interrupting the spoonfuls.
Step 3: Season Carefully
After the soup has fully developed, it’s time to season. Taste the broth first because the smoked ham naturally adds saltiness—this will help you avoid over-seasoning. Add salt and freshly ground pepper sparingly, adjusting until the flavors feel just right. This step might seem simple, but it makes all the difference in balancing the soup’s savory depth.
Step 4: Add the Smoked Gouda
Finally, remove the pot from heat and introduce the star cheese—the smoked Gouda. Dice it into bite-size cubes or shave it for a delicate melt. Stir the cheese directly into the hot soup so it slowly softens and mingles with the creamy texture. Alternatively, offer the cheese as a garnish in each bowl, letting everyone customize their cheesy delight.
How to Serve Crock Pot Split Pea Soup with Ham and Smoked Gouda Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your bowl with fresh, crunchy garnishes like chopped parsley or chives. A swirl of sour cream or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds luscious richness and contrast. For those who love a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted croutons on top to complement the soup’s velvety texture.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty artisan bread or soft buttery rolls—perfect for dunking and soaking up every savory drop. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast, balancing the soup’s indulgent richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve your soup in individual ramekins or hollowed-out bread bowls to impress guests. A sprinkle of cracked pepper and an extra cube of smoked Gouda on top add a visual cue to the flavor experience. This makes even a casual meal feel special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld beautifully. Pour it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. When storing, keep the cheese separate if possible, to prevent it from melting and changing texture prematurely.
Freezing
This Crock Pot Split Pea Soup with Ham and Smoked Gouda Recipe freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to three months. Just remember to leave out the cheese during freezing, adding fresh Gouda when reheating for optimal creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency if it thickens too much. Stir in fresh smoked Gouda cubes once warmed through to revive that rich, smoky finish.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
While the original Crock Pot Split Pea Soup with Ham and Smoked Gouda Recipe relies on ham for its signature flavor, you can swap the ham and bouillon for vegetable broth and smoked paprika or liquid smoke to capture a similar smoky essence.
Is it necessary to soak the split peas before cooking?
No soaking is required for split peas in this recipe. They cook relatively quickly and breaking them down into a creamy texture works best when you start with dry, rinsed peas.
Can I use regular Gouda instead of smoked Gouda?
Regular Gouda will still add creaminess and delicious flavor, but the smoky character is key to the signature taste of this soup. If you use regular Gouda, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika to compensate.
How thick should the soup be?
The ideal soup is thick and creamy but still ladle-able. Feel free to add more water or broth if it’s thicker than you like or simmer longer if it’s thin and watery to reach your preferred consistency.
Can I cook this soup entirely in the crock pot?
Absolutely! You can put all ingredients except the cheese into the crock pot together and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese just before serving to maintain that fresh, melty texture.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Split Pea Soup with Ham and Smoked Gouda Recipe is a true kitchen treasure that delivers comfort, flavor, and ease all in one pot. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want to cozy up with something warm and hearty. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why it’s my go-to recipe when the craving for pure, nourishing satisfaction hits!
