Hearty & Healthy Instant Pot Split Pea Soup: Your Quick & Easy Comfort Meal

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and satisfaction, especially on a chilly day. And when it comes to classic, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying options, split pea soup consistently ranks high. This beloved dish, with its rich history and nourishing ingredients, transforms humble dried split peas into a thick, creamy, and deeply flavorful meal that sticks to your ribs without weighing you down. Traditionally made with a ham hock or bacon, along with a medley of vegetables like onions, potatoes, and carrots, the magic of split pea soup lies in the peas dissolving into the broth during a long, slow simmer, creating a smooth and consistently rich texture. It’s a dish that embodies both simplicity and profound depth of flavor.

However, modern life often calls for modern solutions, and that’s where our Instant Pot Split Pea Soup recipe shines. We’ve taken the essence of this timeless classic and adapted it for the demands of today’s busy kitchens. This version prioritizes health without sacrificing taste, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying experience. By thoughtfully replacing traditional potatoes with extra carrots for natural sweetness and using a leaner meat option like turkey ham, we achieve all the heartwarming goodness you expect from a traditional split pea soup, but with fewer calories and less fat. It’s a perfect example of how a few smart adjustments can make a significant difference in your daily nutrition without compromising on the robust flavors you crave.

I am genuinely thrilled with the outcome of this recipe. It manages to capture the full, authentic flavor profile of a slow-cooked split pea soup, delivering that familiar taste and comforting texture, but without any of the unnecessary heaviness or lengthy cooking times. You get all the goodness and none of the guilt, making it an ideal choice for a healthy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option. This isn’t just a convenient recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with the efficiency of modern appliances, can create truly exceptional and health-conscious cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Recipe

There are countless reasons to add this Instant Pot Split Pea Soup to your regular meal rotation. Beyond its delightful taste, it offers a wealth of practical benefits that make it a standout choice for home cooks looking for healthy, economical, and easy meals.

1. Delicious, Filling, and Deeply Satisfying: This soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy texture and savory flavors are incredibly comforting, making it perfect for cozy evenings or as a hearty lunch. What truly sets it apart is its remarkable ability to keep you feeling full for hours. Thanks to the high fiber and protein content of the split peas and turkey ham, a single serving is genuinely satisfying, helping to ward off those dreaded mid-afternoon hunger pangs and keep you energized until your next meal. It’s a nourishing bowl that feeds both body and soul.
2. Budget-Friendly & Economical: In an era where grocery bills seem to be constantly on the rise, finding recipes that are both nutritious and affordable is a huge win. This split pea soup is incredibly kind to your wallet, primarily due to the star ingredient: dried split peas. These humble legumes are a cost-effective pantry staple, offering substantial nutritional value for a minimal price. Paired with common, inexpensive vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, and a lean, affordable protein like turkey ham, this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to eat well on a budget.
3. Effortless Cooking with the Instant Pot: The Instant Pot truly makes this recipe a dream come true for convenience. This versatile appliance streamlines the entire cooking process, taking the traditional, hours-long simmer of split pea soup and condensing it into a fraction of the time. You start by using the sauté function directly in the pot, building a foundational layer of flavor by softening your aromatics. Then, with a simple press of a button, the pressure cooking takes over, transforming the peas into a wonderfully creamy consistency in just 15 minutes of active cook time. This hands-off approach means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time to focus on other tasks or simply relax. It’s quick, efficient, and incredibly safe, delivering consistently perfect results every single time, making “30 minutes later, the magic is complete” a reality.
4. A Health-Conscious Choice: This particular rendition of split pea soup is designed with your wellness in mind. By replacing potatoes with more carrots, we boost the fiber and vitamin A content while reducing the carbohydrate load. Opting for lean turkey ham instead of fattier pork products significantly lowers the saturated fat content, making it a heart-healthy option. It’s a genuinely nutritious meal that supports a balanced diet, proving that wholesome food can also be incredibly delicious.
5. Excellent for Meal Prep: This soup is a fantastic candidate for meal prepping. It holds up beautifully in the refrigerator for several days, and its flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers even more enjoyable. You can easily make a larger batch on the weekend and have satisfying, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week, saving you time and effort during busy weekdays.

Essential Ingredients for Your Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

Crafting this flavorful Instant Pot Split Pea Soup requires a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store. Each component plays a crucial role in building the soup’s comforting flavor and hearty texture.

• 1 cup (200g) green split peas, rinsed: The foundation of our soup! Green split peas are dried, peeled, and split peas that don’t require pre-soaking for Instant Pot cooking, though rinsing them thoroughly before use is always recommended to remove any debris. They cook down to create that signature creamy consistency and are packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the aromatic vegetables, creating the initial flavor base for the soup. Olive oil or any other neutral cooking oil can be used as a substitute.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: A quintessential aromatic, providing a sweet and savory base flavor when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, savory depth that is indispensable in almost any soup recipe.
• 2 carrots, diced: These contribute natural sweetness, vibrant color, and essential nutrients like Vitamin A. In this lighter version, they also add body, stepping in for potatoes.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped: Along with onions and carrots, celery forms the classic mirepoix, a fundamental flavor base in many soups and stews.
• 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth: The primary liquid for the soup, infusing it with savory chicken flavor. For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply swap this for vegetable broth. Opt for low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness of your soup.
• 1 cup (150g) turkey ham, diced: Our lean protein choice! Turkey ham provides a delicious smoky and savory element without the higher fat content of traditional ham or bacon. Dicing it into small pieces allows its flavor to meld beautifully with the peas and vegetables. Feel free to use a smoked turkey leg or even chicken if you prefer.
• 1 bay leaf: Aromatic herb that adds a subtle, herbaceous note and a hint of warmth to the soup. Remember to remove it before serving.
• Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. It’s best to add salt incrementally and taste as you go, especially since broth can vary in sodium content.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes – This includes chopping all your vegetables and rinsing the peas. A little mise en place goes a long way!

Cooking Time: 15 minutes under high pressure – The beauty of the Instant Pot! This active cooking time is followed by a natural pressure release period.

Servings: 4 – This recipe yields a generous four servings, perfect for a family meal or for meal prepping leftovers.

Serving size: 400 g – A substantial and satisfying portion that will keep you full and content.

Step-by-Step Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Instructions

Making this hearty split pea soup in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly creamy and flavorful result every time.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Allow the pot to heat up for a minute or two until the display reads “Hot”. Add the vegetable oil to the inner pot. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become fragrant. This step is crucial for building a deep flavor base for your soup, as caramelizing the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and savory notes.

2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Once the vegetables are softened, press “Cancel” on your Instant Pot to turn off the sauté function. Add the rinsed green split peas directly into the Instant Pot. Follow this with the chicken broth, diced turkey ham, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt. Give everything a good stir to ensure the ingredients are well combined and the peas are submerged in the liquid. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to dislodge any browned bits from sautéing; this prevents the “Burn” warning during pressure cooking.

3. Pressure Cook: Carefully close the Instant Pot lid, making sure it’s securely locked. Rotate the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting (depending on your Instant Pot model) and set the cooking time to 15 minutes on high pressure. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking countdown begins.

4. Natural Pressure Release (NPR): Once the 15-minute cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep and automatically switch to “Keep Warm” mode. Resist the urge to open it immediately! Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This natural release period is important as it helps the peas finish cooking and prevents the soup from frothing excessively when you open the pot. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the steam release valve to the “Venting” position for a quick release of any remaining pressure. Use a kitchen towel or oven mitt to protect your hand from the escaping steam.

5. Season and Stir: Once all the pressure has been released and the float valve has dropped, you can safely open the Instant Pot lid. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Give the soup a thorough stir to combine all the ingredients and break up any peas that might have settled. At this point, the soup should be thick and creamy. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or a crack of black pepper if desired. The consistency might seem very thick, but it will thin slightly with stirring and serving.

6. Serve Hot: Ladle the warm and comforting Instant Pot Split Pea Soup into bowls. For an extra touch of freshness and texture, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a handful of crispy croutons. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your homemade, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal!

Note: For an even smoother, more velvety consistency, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the Instant Pot before serving. Blend only for a few seconds if you prefer some texture, or longer for a completely smooth purée. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can always adjust the consistency by stirring in a little more chicken broth or hot water until it reaches your desired texture.

Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions

One of the best aspects of this Instant Pot Split Pea Soup recipe is its versatility. While delicious as written, it’s also a fantastic canvas for experimentation, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary preferences, what you have on hand, or simply what you’re craving. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

1. Adding Potatoes for Classic Heartiness: If you’re not concerned about keeping the recipe as light as possible, or simply prefer a more traditional, robust split pea soup, adding potatoes complements the recipe perfectly. Diced potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or Russet) can be added along with the split peas and broth. They will cook down beautifully under pressure, adding extra body, a subtle starchiness, and a familiar comfort to the soup. For best results, dice them into 1/2-inch cubes so they cook evenly with the peas.
2. Exploring Different Peas and Herbs:
   • Yellow Split Peas: While green split peas are the classic choice, experimenting with yellow split peas can offer a slight variation in flavor and color. Yellow split peas tend to have a milder, sweeter flavor and produce a golden-hued soup. The cooking time and method remain the same.
   • Adjusting Aromatics and Herbs: The beauty of a simple soup lies in its adaptability to your personal taste. Feel free to adjust the amount of celery, or experiment with other fresh herbs. A sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary added with the bay leaf can introduce a wonderful earthy aroma. For a brighter, fresher finish, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro (instead of parsley) at the end can add a zesty, herbaceous kick.
   • Spices for Extra Warmth: Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika (especially if omitting ham for a vegetarian version), a dash of cumin, or even a tiny amount of curry powder for an interesting twist and added warmth. Add these with the sautéed vegetables to toast them and release their flavors.
3. Adapting to Different Cooking Methods: This versatile recipe can be made in any type of pot, not just an Instant Pot. By adapting the cooking time and method, you can still ensure a flavorful outcome, no matter your equipment:
   • Traditional Pressure Cooker: If you have a stovetop pressure cooker, the cooking time for the peas will be similar (around 15-20 minutes after reaching high pressure), followed by a natural release. Ensure you follow your specific pressure cooker’s instructions for liquid quantities and safety.
   • Slow Cooker: For a truly hands-off approach, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables in a separate pan on the stovetop first (or skip if short on time, though sautéing adds depth), then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the peas are tender and dissolved. You may need slightly less liquid as evaporation is minimal.
   • Stovetop: To make this on the stovetop, sauté the vegetables in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Add the remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are completely tender and creamy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add more liquid if it evaporates too quickly.
4. Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptations: For a plant-based version, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the turkey ham. To replicate the smoky flavor, you can add a teaspoon of smoked paprika, a few drops of liquid smoke (use sparingly!), or incorporate a vegetarian smoked sausage or even a touch of miso paste for umami depth.
5. Other Protein Options: While turkey ham is a lean choice, you can certainly use other proteins. Diced regular ham, crispy bacon bits (sautéed first and some fat reserved), or even a smoked ham hock (cooked with the peas and then removed to shred the meat) can be used. For a different flavor profile, cooked shredded chicken or a mild sausage (browned first) could also be stirred in at the end.

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Split Pea Soup

Achieving a consistently perfect bowl of Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is easy with a few insider tips. These pointers will help you maximize flavor, ensure ideal texture, and make the most of your cooking experience.

1. Mastering Your Instant Pot for Legumes: To truly optimize your split pea soup, it’s beneficial to familiarize yourself with your Instant Pot’s specific features. Many models have dedicated functions or settings designed for cooking legumes, which can sometimes provide slight variations in cooking logic. Pay attention to your sealing ring (ensure it’s properly seated), and understand how your steam release valve operates for both sealing and venting.

   If your pressure cooker lacks a dedicated sauté function (common in older or more basic models), you can easily sauté the vegetables in a separate skillet on your stovetop before transferring them to the Instant Pot. This extra step of pre-sautéing is highly recommended as it deepens the flavor profile of your soup by caramelizing the aromatics. However, this step is not mandatory; if you’re short on time or prefer a truly one-pot, minimal-effort meal, you can simply add all the ingredients (including the raw onion, garlic, carrots, and celery) directly to the Instant Pot with the broth and peas. While the flavor might be slightly less complex, the soup will still be delicious and incredibly convenient. It’s a great option for those super busy days!

2. To Soak or Not to Soak Your Split Peas?: One of the most common questions regarding split peas is whether they need to be soaked. For Instant Pot cooking, soaking green split peas for at least two hours before preparation (or even overnight) is *optional* but can offer a couple of benefits. Soaking can potentially expedite the cooking process slightly (though 15 minutes in the Instant Pot is already quite fast) and, for some individuals, may improve digestibility by reducing gas-producing compounds. If you do choose to soak them, always rinse them thoroughly under cold running water before adding them to the pot to ensure cleanliness and remove any residual soaking liquid. If you skip soaking (which is perfectly fine for the Instant Pot), ensure you give them a good rinse to remove any dust or small debris.
3. Seasoning Strategy: It’s always best to season your soup incrementally. Add a pinch of salt initially, as suggested in the recipe. Once the soup has finished cooking and the pressure is released, taste it before adding more. The saltiness of chicken broth can vary significantly between brands, so adjusting at the end allows you to achieve the perfect balance without over-salting. Freshly cracked black pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice (added just before serving) can also elevate the flavors.
4. Adjusting Consistency: Split pea soup naturally thickens as it cools due to the starches in the peas. If you prefer a thinner soup, simply stir in a bit more hot chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If you want it thicker, you can let it simmer on the “Sauté” setting (after pressure cooking) for a few minutes with the lid off, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, using an immersion blender to partially purée the soup will also contribute to a thicker, creamier mouthfeel.
5. Storage and Freezing: This soup is excellent for make-ahead meals. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Split pea soup also freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.
6. Serving Suggestions: While delicious on its own, a bowl of split pea soup can be elevated with simple garnishes. Freshly chopped parsley, a swirl of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, crispy bacon bits (if not included in the main recipe, or if you want extra), or crunchy croutons are all wonderful additions. Don’t forget a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping!

WW Points Breakdown: A Health-Conscious Choice

For those following the Weight Watchers (WW) program, this Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is an outstanding, low-point option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satiety. Understanding the point values of individual ingredients helps illustrate why this soup is such a smart choice for weight management.

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate WW Points per ingredient in this recipe, based on common values (always verify with your current WW plan):

• Dry split peas: 0 points (a fantastic, filling, and fiber-rich zero-point food!)
• Vegetable oil: 1 point (per teaspoon, for sautéing)
• Onion: 0 points
• Garlic: 0 points
• Carrots: 0 points
• Celery: 0 points
• Chicken broth: 2 points (for 6 cups, depending on brand and sodium content, opt for low-sodium)
• Extra lean sliced turkey ham: 4 points (for 1 cup, a great lean protein choice)
• Bay leaf: 0 points
• Table salt: 0 points

Based on these calculations and the recipe yielding 4 generous servings, each serving of this Instant Pot Split Pea Soup comes out to be approximately 2 WW Points Per Serving. This makes it an incredibly appealing option for anyone looking for a wholesome, satisfying, and very low-point meal. The fact that the bulk of the soup (peas and vegetables) are zero-point foods, combined with the lean protein, ensures you get maximum flavor and fullness for minimal points, helping you stay on track with your health goals.