A steaming bowl of creamy Split Pea Soup with Bacon fills your kitchen with warmth, the irresistible aroma curling through the air and inviting you to take a seat. The vibrant green hue of the soup hints at the deliciousness that awaits, while the rustic charm of bacon enhances every bite, creating a cozy sensation that feels like a hug in a bowl.

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This recipe combines the heartiness of split peas with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, making it a comforting staple for chilly nights or a satisfying lunch. It’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and comes together in just a few easy steps, perfect for both seasoned chefs and those new to cooking. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking to impress guests, this split pea soup with bacon is your go-to solution. Grab your spoon and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Split Pea Soup with Bacon
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Split Pea Soup with Bacon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This hearty dish requires only 10 minutes of prep and about 2 hours to simmer, making it a manageable meal to whip up any night of the week.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of bacon and sautéed onions creates a flavorful base, while the split peas lend a creamy texture that is utterly satisfying.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green color of the soup, juxtaposed with specks of bacon and carrots, makes for an inviting presentation in any bowl.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a delightful lunch, a cozy dinner, or even as a party appetizer—it’s versatile enough to shine at any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: If you’re looking to keep it lower in fat, you can easily substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or a vegetarian alternative without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 slices thick-cut bacon: This adds a smoky richness and crunch; feel free to swap for turkey bacon for a lighter option.
1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped: Onions bring a sweet depth; yellow is ideal, though white will also work.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the aroma of the soup, making it utterly fragrant.
4 cups chicken broth: A flavorful base; use low-sodium broth to control sodium levels, or switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
2 to 4 cups water: Adjust this based on how thick or thin you prefer your soup.
1 bay leaf: This aromatic leaf infuses flavor during cooking; don’t forget to remove it before serving.
½ tsp Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a background flavor; you can use fresh herbs if you have them.
1 pound (16 oz) split peas, rinsed: Green or yellow split peas work well, providing that creamy texture.
1 large carrot, chopped: Carrots add both sweetness and color; feel free to add more for extra sweetness.
Sea salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your preference.

How to Make Split Pea Soup with Bacon

Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, place the 4 slices of thick-cut bacon in a single layer. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until crispy and the fat has rendered. Use tongs to remove the bacon and let it cool on a cutting board. Once cool, chop it into small pieces and set it aside in the refrigerator for later.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, now brimming with delicious bacon grease, add 1 cup of finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for roughly 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, letting the savory scents permeate your kitchen.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth along with 2 to 4 cups of water, depending on your desired consistency. Toss in the bay leaf, ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 pound of rinsed split peas. Stir everything together, cover the pot, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, covered.
Add Carrots: After an hour, check the peas; if they haven’t started to fall apart, let them simmer for another 20 minutes. Then add 1 large chopped carrot, cover again, and cook for an additional 30 minutes. At this point, the carrots should be tender, and the split peas will have dissolved into a creamy consistency. If you’d like a thicker soup, remove the lid during this simmering stage.
Finishing Touches: Stir in the reserved chopped bacon. Taste your creation, adjusting with sea salt and black pepper to enhance flavors. Serve in warm bowls and consider topping with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, or freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of indulgence.

Storing & Reheating

To store your split pea soup, allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for about 2 hours and refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy consistency. Keep in mind that the flavor may intensify, and the texture may thicken as it cools.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the peas: Keep an eye on them, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Sautéing the onion and garlic until fragrant is key to a flavorful base for your soup.
For a smoother texture, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender before adding carrots.
Keep your ingredients ready: Finely chop everything beforehand to streamline the cooking process.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding croutons, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Enjoy the warm comforts of split pea soup with bacon, a dish that brings memories flooding back with every spoonful.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make split pea soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Start by sautéing the bacon, onion, and garlic on the stovetop for enhanced flavor. Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, adjusting the water amount as needed. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the peas and carrots are tender.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the 4 slices of bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still achieve a hearty, flavorful soup!

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to include additional vegetables like celery, potatoes, or green beans. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables used so that they are all cooked to the desired tenderness.

Is split pea soup healthy?

Yes, split pea soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice. By adjusting the amount of bacon or using alternatives, you can further tailor its nutritional profile to fit your dietary needs.

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