This Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Pea Noodles recipe is the kind of comforting, no-fuss meal that reminds me of simple farmhouse cooking. It combines tender chunks of ham, sweet green peas, and wide egg noodles in a rich, savory broth that slowly simmers to perfection. The ham infuses the entire dish with its smoky, salty goodness while the peas add pops of sweetness and color. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it lets simple, quality ingredients shine. The ham provides a smoky, savory foundation that flavors the entire dish. The frozen peas add sweetness, color, and texture without any prep work. The chicken brothcreates a rich, flavorful base that the noodles absorb as they cook. Everything simmers together in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
The Complete Recipe: Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Pea Noodles
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 4-5 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH | Total Time: 4-5 hours | Servings: 6
Ingredients
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1½ pounds boneless ham steak or leftover ham, diced into ½-inch cubes
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3 cups frozen green peas (about 12 ounces)
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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12 ounces wide egg noodles (about 6 cups)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
If using ham steak, remove any casing and dice the ham into ½-inch cubes.
Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker
Place the diced ham in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the frozen peas on top. Pour the chicken broth over everything.
Step 3: Cook
Cover and cook on:
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LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or
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HIGH for 2 to 3 hours
The broth should be hot and the flavors well combined.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Stir in the wide egg noodles. Cover and continue cooking for another 30 to 45 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
Step 5: Serve
Stir gently and serve hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Ham and Pea Noodles
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Ham Choice: Leftover holiday ham works perfectly. If using ham steak, look for a thick-cut variety for the best texture.
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Noodle Timing: Add the noodles only during the last 30 to 45 minutes of cooking. If added too early, they’ll become mushy.
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Broth Level: The noodles will absorb a lot of liquid. If you prefer a soupier dish, add an extra cup of broth.
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Season Carefully: Ham and chicken broth both contain salt, so taste before adding any additional salt.
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Fresh Peas: If using fresh peas, add them with the noodles so they don’t overcook.
Delicious Variations
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Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.
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Herb Garden: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary with the broth.
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Cheesy Noodles: Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese at the end.
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Add Potatoes: Add diced potatoes along with the ham for an even heartier meal.
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Vegetable Boost: Add sliced carrots or celery with the ham.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with crusty bread or dinner rollsfor sopping up the flavorful broth
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Pair with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette
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Garnish with fresh parsley or chivesfor a pop of color
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Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The noodles will continue to absorb liquid, so you may want to add a splash of broth when reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a little extra broth.
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Freezing: This dish freezes reasonably well for up to 2 months, though the noodles will soften upon thawing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion: Simple, Satisfying, and Delicious
Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Pea Noodles proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients to create a deeply satisfying meal. With just four simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can have a hearty, comforting dinner that tastes like it simmered all day.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Make it once, and you’ll understand why it’s a keeper.