17 Easy Winter Crockpot Meals

Winter crockpot dinners are a lifesaver for those chilly evenings when you want something warm and hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply toss your ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and let it do the work while you kick back and relax. These cozy recipes are perfect for family gatherings or just a quiet night in, providing delicious meals with minimal fuss.

Vegetable and Quinoa Minestrone

This Vegetable and Quinoa Minestrone is a warm and hearty dish perfect for those chilly winter nights. Packed with vibrant vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, it offers a comforting bowl of goodness that’s full of flavor. The combination of fresh herbs and a rich tomato broth makes each spoonful a delightful experience.

Not only is this minestrone simple to prepare, but it also allows for flexibility with ingredients, making it a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have on hand. Just throw everything into your crockpot and let it simmer away, filling your home with delicious aromas. It’s a wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone around the dinner table!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. In a crockpot, combine the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, corn, onion, and garlic.
2. Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the quinoa is cooked.
4. Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
5. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious minestrone!

Hearty Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

This hearty beef stew is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly winter day. Packed with tender chunks of beef and a medley of root vegetables, it’s both comforting and satisfying. The rich, savory flavor of the beef melds beautifully with the sweetness of carrots and the earthiness of potatoes, creating a meal that’s great on its own or served with crusty bread.

Making this stew is simple and requires minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it work its magic. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 4 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, then transfer them to the crockpot.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the crockpot with the beef.
3. In a bowl, combine beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot.
4. Add the bay leaves, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.
5. Discard the bay leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious and hearty beef stew!

Slow-Cooked Honey Garlic Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dinner, slow-cooked honey garlic chicken is a fantastic choice. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and savory sauce that is irresistible. The best part? It’s super easy to make. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day!

The honey adds a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the garlic and soy sauce, creating a flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables for a hearty meal that feels special without requiring much effort on your part. Get ready to enjoy a filling and tasty dinner!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Add Chicken to Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot and pour the honey garlic sauce over the top.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it into the sauce to combine.
5. Serve: Serve over rice or with steamed vegetables, and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.

Spicy Sausage and Lentil Chili

This Spicy Sausage and Lentil Chili is the perfect winter meal. It’s hearty, warming, and packed with flavors that will keep you cozy on the coldest days. The combination of spicy sausage and nutritious lentils creates a satisfying dish that is simple to prepare in your trusty crockpot.

With just a little chopping and measuring, you can set this chili to cook and go about your day. The slow simmer melds the spices and ingredients beautifully, resulting in a rich and tasty meal. Perfect for feeding a crowd or having delicious leftovers for days!

Ingredients

• 1 pound spicy sausage, sliced
• 1 cup lentils (any variety), rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, then transfer it to the crockpot.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
3. Stir to combine everything well, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

This creamy chicken and wild rice soup is a cozy favorite for winter evenings. With tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables, each spoonful is both comforting and nutritious. It’s rich and creamy, making it perfect for warming up on chilly days.

Preparing this soup is simple and requires minimal effort, thanks to the crockpot. Just toss in your ingredients, set it to cook, and let the flavors meld together. You’ll have a delicious meal ready when you need it, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a crockpot, add the chicken breasts, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken and rice are tender.
3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on high to thicken the soup.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any winter evening. With tender chicken, fettuccine noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce, this meal is bursting with flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

The combination of creamy sauce and savory ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, you can throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you, making dinner a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Add Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then sprinkle the sun-dried tomatoes on top. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
3. Cook the Pasta: About 20 minutes before serving, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Finish the Dish: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks and stir in the fresh spinach. Mix in the cooked pasta until well combined.
5. Serve: Dish out the creamy pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before enjoying.

Vegetarian Chili with Black Beans

Vegetarian Chili with Black Beans is the perfect cozy dish for chilly nights. This hearty chili is packed with vibrant vegetables and flavorful spices, making it both satisfying and nutritious. With a blend of black beans, bell peppers, and tomatoes, each bite bursts with flavor, offering a delightful balance of spices and textures.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring minimal prep and letting your crockpot do all the hard work. Just chop your veggies, toss everything into the pot, and let the flavors meld together as it simmers. It’s a wonderful meal for busy days, and it tastes even better as leftovers!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a crockpot, add the black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook: Stir the mixture well, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Creamy Potato and Leek Soup

This creamy potato and leek soup is the perfect winter comfort food. It’s rich, velvety, and filled with hearty flavors that warm you up from the inside out. With just a few simple ingredients and a crockpot, you can have a delicious meal waiting for you after a long day.

The combination of tender potatoes and sweet leeks creates a satisfying base, while cream adds a luxurious touch. It’s a straightforward recipe that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this soup is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a crockpot, add the diced potatoes, sliced leeks, chopped onion, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled bacon and fresh chives before serving.

Moroccan Chicken with Apricots

Moroccan Chicken with Apricots is a delightful dish that brings warm, sweet, and savory flavors to your dinner table. With tender chicken cooked in a fragrant sauce, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. Just toss everything in your crockpot, and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day.

This dish combines the sweetness of apricots with aromatic spices, creating a comforting meal perfect for chilly winter evenings. Serve it over rice or couscous for a satisfying and wholesome dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup dried apricots, halved
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup honey
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season them with salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, and paprika.
2. Add the Ingredients: Top the chicken with chopped onion, minced garlic, halved apricots, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and honey. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Serve: Once done, shred the chicken gently with two forks. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro over rice or couscous.

Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles

Beef Stroganoff is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort on chilly winter nights. This savory meal features tender beef pieces cooked in a creamy sauce, perfectly complementing the egg noodles. The rich flavors of mushrooms, garlic, and onions meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and letting your crockpot do most of the work. Toss in the ingredients, set your timer, and enjoy the delightful aroma as it cooks. Perfect for busy evenings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup sour cream
• 12 ounces egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a crockpot, combine the beef, onion, garlic, mushrooms, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.
3. Cook the Noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Finish the Sauce: Once the beef is done, stir in the sour cream until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve: Serve the beef stroganoff over the egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Savory Pork Tenderloin with Apples

This savory pork tenderloin with apples is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender pork and the sweetness of apples. It’s perfect for chilly winter evenings when you want a cozy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking process ensures the pork remains juicy and flavorful, while the apples add a hint of sweetness and tartness that perfectly complements the meat.

Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also fills your home with an inviting aroma as it cooks. Just toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work for you. Serve it with some mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork tenderloin
• 2 apples, sliced (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Place it in the crockpot.
2. Add Ingredients: Layer the sliced apples and chopped onion on top of the pork. Pour the apple cider and soy sauce over the mixture, then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly on top.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and fully cooked.
4. Serve: Once done, slice the pork and serve with the apples and sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy!

Chicken Tikka Masala with Rice

This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is a cozy winter dish that warms your soul. It features tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, making it rich and flavorful. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare in a crockpot, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

The combination of spices like garam masala and cumin brings a delightful warmth, while the yogurt adds creaminess to the sauce. Serve it with fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• 4 cups cooked rice

Instructions

1. In a crockpot, place the chicken thighs, onion, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, tomato sauce, and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
3. Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot using two forks and stir to mix it well with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew

This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew is a cozy dish perfect for winter evenings. With its hearty ingredients, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the earthy black beans, creating a delightful and balanced flavor profile.

Simple to make, this stew cooks in your crockpot while you go about your day. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let the flavors meld together for a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In your crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Serve: Once cooked, stir gently and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Lemon Herb Garlic Shrimp

Winter dinners can feel heavy, but this Lemon Herb Garlic Shrimp recipe brings a light, bright flavor to your table. Bursting with zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and savory garlic, this dish is a delightful contrast to the cold days of winter. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare—just toss everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic!

This shrimp dish not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, it pairs beautifully with rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy a taste of the sea without the fuss!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Combine with Shrimp: Place the shrimp in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them. Toss gently to coat.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until shrimp are cooked through and tender.
4. Serve: Once done, garnish with additional parsley and serve immediately, ideally over rice or with a side of crusty bread.

Rustic Vegetable and Bean Cassoulet

This Rustic Vegetable and Bean Cassoulet is a comforting dish perfect for chilly winter nights. Packed with hearty beans and colorful vegetables, it offers a rich and satisfying flavor that warms the soul. Plus, it’s simple to throw together, making it an ideal weeknight meal.

The combination of ingredients creates a deliciously creamy texture and a burst of flavors in every bite. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or beans, ensuring it suits everyone’s taste. Enjoy this delightful cassoulet with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large crockpot, heat olive oil and add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic, diced peppers, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, kidney beans, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
4. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa

Stuffed bell peppers make a warm and inviting dish, perfect for those chilly winter nights. These colorful peppers are filled with a hearty blend of quinoa, veggies, and spices, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the peppers combined with the nutty quinoa creates a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Making stuffed bell peppers is a breeze! Just prepare the filling, stuff the peppers, and let your crockpot do the work. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at a gathering. You can customize the filling to suit your taste, making it a versatile go-to recipe.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Quinoa: In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and fluffy.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
4. Cook in the Crockpot: Place the stuffed peppers upright in the crockpot. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the peppers are tender.
5. Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy your warm, delicious stuffed peppers!

Classic Split Pea Soup with Ham

Classic split pea soup with ham is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort on chilly winter nights. The soup is rich and creamy, with the earthy flavors of split peas complemented by the smokiness of the ham. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

This soup simmers in your crockpot, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully while you carry on with your day. The combination of tender peas, hearty ham, and fresh herbs creates a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 1 pound split peas, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Place the rinsed split peas, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic into the crockpot.
2. Add Ham and Broth: Nestle the ham hock or diced ham into the mixture. Pour in the broth, and add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the Soup: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the peas are soft and the soup is creamy.
4. Blend if Desired: For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
5. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!