Betty Crocker Split Pea Soup Recipe

Soup, in all its comforting glory, has a way of making any day feel a little better. Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re just in need of something hearty and nourishing, a bowl of soup is often the answer. One classic recipe that’s not only nutritious but also easy to make is Betty Crocker’s Split Pea Soup. This timeless recipe is a crowd-pleaser, known for its rich, creamy texture and satisfying flavor.

Split pea soup, in particular, has a long history as a comfort food. It combines split peas, a hearty legume packed with protein and fiber, with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes meat to create a filling and flavorful dish. Betty Crocker, with her wealth of reliable recipes, has turned this simple soup into something that you can make any day of the week, whether you’re cooking for a family or just whipping up a quick meal for yourself.

In this post, we’ll break down the entire process of making Betty Crocker’s Split Pea Soup-from ingredients to cooking instructions, tips, and even some possible variations. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this warm, flavorful classic.

Betty Crocker Split Pea Soup Recipe

Split pea soup is typically a one-pot wonder that’s both affordable and flexible. Betty Crocker’s version sticks to tradition but adds a few expert touches to elevate it. The soup is simmered until thick and velvety, with the peas breaking down into a deliciously creamy consistency.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the richness of the flavors developed during the cooking process. Each ingredient plays its part in creating a soup that’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to satisfy.

Ingredients Needed

Before you start, here’s a list of what you’ll need to gather.

• 1 lb dried split peas (green or yellow-your choice)
• 8 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
• 1 ham bone (or 2 cups ham, diced, for a meatier soup)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter for richer flavor)
• 1 potato, peeled and diced (optional, for added creaminess)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra smoothness)

These ingredients are relatively common, so you’ll likely already have most of them in your pantry or fridge. The combination of split peas, vegetables, and ham or bacon is what gives this soup its distinct flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to make this soup.

1. Prepare The Split Peas

   • Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly to remove any debris. This ensures your soup doesn’t end up with any unwanted bits.

2. Cook The Aromatics

   • In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).

3. Add The Liquids

   • Pour in the water (or broth if you’re using it for added flavor). Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.

4. Incorporate The Split Peas

   • Once the liquid is boiling, add the rinsed split peas, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.

5. Simmer The Soup

   • Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The peas will break down and thicken the soup as they cook. If you’re using a ham bone, add it in at this point, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.

6. Add Potatoes (Optional)

   • If you’re using potatoes for a creamier texture, add them about 30 minutes before the soup is done simmering. The potatoes will cook down and create a smooth base when blended.

7. Check The Texture

   • After the cooking time, check the consistency of your soup. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup (or all of it).

8. Finish The Soup

   • Once the soup is done cooking, remove the bay leaf and ham bone (if using). If there’s ham on the bone, you can shred it and add it back into the soup for a burst of savory flavor.

9. Add Cream (Optional)

   • For an extra creamy finish, stir in the heavy cream just before serving.

10. Taste And Adjust

    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. You can add more salt, pepper, or thyme based on your preferences.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a moment to dive into the benefits and flavors of some key ingredients in this recipe.

• Split Peas: Split peas are rich in fiber and protein, making this soup not only filling but also healthy. They break down as they cook, creating a thick, creamy texture without the need for dairy (though you can add it if you prefer).
• Ham or Ham Bone: The ham provides a smoky, savory depth to the soup. It’s a classic pairing with split peas and adds richness to the broth. If you’re using a ham bone, the marrow and bits of ham infuse the soup with even more flavor.
• Carrots and Celery: These vegetables offer both texture and natural sweetness, balancing out the earthy flavor of the peas.
• Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs give the soup an aromatic quality, making every spoonful feel comforting and warm. Thyme pairs beautifully with peas, while bay leaf adds complexity to the broth.

Expert Tips

• Use Stock for Extra Flavor: If you want a deeper flavor, opt for chicken or vegetable stock instead of plain water. This will give the soup a richer taste without too much effort.
• Don’t Skip the Ham Bone: If you can, use a ham bone for an authentic, traditional flavor. It’ll make the soup taste like it’s been simmering all day, even if it only takes a few hours.
• Add a Dash of Lemon: Once the soup is finished, a small squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors and cut through the richness of the ham and split peas.
• Thicken or Thin It: The soup can be thickened or thinned according to your preference. For a thicker soup, let it cook longer until it reduces. If you like it thinner, simply add more liquid (water or broth).
• Make it a Meal: Serve with a hearty side like crusty bread, a green salad, or a slice of cornbread for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Split pea soup is a versatile dish, and there are plenty of ways to customize it.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham or ham bone and use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian. You can add mushrooms for a savory umami flavor or some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This is a great variation if you want to bring some heat to the dish.
• Slow Cooker Version: For hands-off cooking, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Just add all your ingredients (including water or broth) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Creamier Texture: If you like your soup extra creamy, consider adding some coconut milk or heavy cream in place of part of the liquid. This will create a smooth, velvety texture.

Final Words

Betty Crocker’s Split Pea Soup recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. It’s comforting, filling, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re using a ham bone for that extra depth or keeping it vegetarian, this soup will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s easy to make, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend.