As I stood in the kitchen, the scent of garlic melting into butter danced in the air, pulling me into my happiest memories of family dinners. There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of creamed peas and potatoes, with its rich, velvety sauce enveloping tender, buttery potatoes and bright green peas. This dish is not just a delightful side; it feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
Tired of fast food and looking for a soul-soothing recipe that delights your taste buds? You’re in the right place! With its simple ingredients and heartwarming flavor, creamed peas and potatoes is incredibly versatile. Whether you opt for fresh or frozen peas, this comforting classic can easily adapt to your pantry’s offerings or seasonal produce. Join me as we dive into this deliciously creamy, crowd-pleasing dish that turns any meal into a celebration!
Why will Creamed Peas and Potatoes become a staple?
Comforting Taste: The creamy garlic sauce blends beautifully with the buttery potatoes and sweet peas, creating a taste that’s sure to please any palate.
Simplicity: You can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes, making it an easy go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Versatility: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have in your pantry for a personalized touch.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
For an extra twist, check out my tips on how to add different vegetables for a fun spin on this classic!
Creamed Peas And Potatoes Ingredients
For the Cream Sauce
• Frozen Peas – Provides sweetness and a burst of color; fresh peas can be used but require longer cooking time.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth and flavor; fresh minced garlic is recommended for optimal taste.
• Butter – Enhances richness and mouthfeel; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cream sauce, creating a silky texture; gluten-free flour can be used for dietary needs.
• Whole Milk – Provides creaminess; half-and-half or a dairy-free milk can be used as a substitute.
• Heavy Cream – Adds luxury and richness to the sauce; light cream can be an alternative for a less rich experience.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Potatoes
• Potatoes – Acts as the base, providing a creamy texture; any type of potato like Yukon or red will work well.
With just these simple ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that’s both fulfilling and delicious. So, gather what you have and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Creamed Peas and Potatoes
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Prep: Begin by peeling and chopping 1 pound of potatoes into even-sized pieces. This will ensure they cook uniformly. Meanwhile, thaw 12 ounces of frozen peas for a burst of sweetness.
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Cook Potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the chopped potatoes and cook until fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re done, drain them well.
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Make Sauce: In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
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Thicken Sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and let it cook until bubbly. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while stirring constantly until the mixture simmers and thickens slightly.
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Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the boiled potatoes and thawed peas into the creamy sauce, allowing everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes until fully heated through.
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Finish: Mix in ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste and serve it warm for maximum comfort.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamed Peas and Potatoes Variations
Embrace your creativity and adjust this dish to fit your taste! Each twist brings a new adventure to your plate.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond or coconut milk to give it a lighter feel without sacrificing creaminess. You’ll still enjoy the comforting texture!
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Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped carrots or fresh corn kernels to the mix for a pop of color and sweetness. These vegetables complement the dish beautifully, making it even more vibrant.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme for added aroma and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving elevates this classic to the next level!
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy version that adds a rich depth to the cream sauce. It transforms the comforting dish into a cheesy dream!
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Spicy Upgrade: For a kick, incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It’s an unexpected warmth that keeps everyone guessing!
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Loaded Option: Make it a meal by mixing in cooked bacon bits or shredded chicken for added protein. This will take it from a side dish to a hearty main event.
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Nutty Texture: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds right before serving. The crunch will add an exciting texture contrast to the creamy sauce.
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Seasonal Variants: Replace peas with seasonal veggies like zucchini in summer or roasted butternut squash in fall for a seasonal twist that keeps this dish fresh and exciting!
How to Store and Freeze Creamed Peas and Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, again adding a bit of milk if needed.
Reheating: Avoid the microwave for best results; reheating on the stovetop maintains the creamy texture of your creamed peas and potatoes.
Make-Ahead Tips: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored. Just be sure to adjust the consistency with cream before serving.
What to Serve with Creamed Peas and Potatoes?
Cozy up to a comforting meal that is destined to bring smiles to the dinner table.
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Roast Chicken: The savory flavors of thyme and garlic in roasted chicken perfectly balance the creamy richness of the dish.
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Grilled Salmon: This healthy and flaky fish adds a refreshing contrast, while its lightness complements the hearty potatoes beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: With its crunchy exterior and soft interior, garlicky bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce and elevating the dining experience.
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Steamed Asparagus: The tender-crisp texture and earthy flavor of asparagus add a delightful freshness, making each bite bright and vibrant.
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Crispy Fried Onions: Add a satisfying crunch by topping your creamed peas and potatoes with crispy fried onions, introducing an unexpected flavor pop.
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Butter Lettuce Salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette brings brightness to the table and helps cut through the richness of the dish.
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Chardonnay: This creamy white wine, with its buttery notes, pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the dish, enhancing your entire meal.
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Apple Crisp: Finish on a sweet note with a slice of warm apple crisp, its cinnamon-spiced flavors harmonizing perfectly with the comfort of your main dish.
Make Ahead Options
Creamed peas and potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor this comforting dish even on your busiest nights! You can prep the potatoes by peeling and chopping them up to 24 hours in advance. Store the raw potatoes in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can thaw the peas ahead of time (or cook them fresh just before serving). When ready to serve, simply boil the prepped potatoes, make the sauce, and combine everything, ensuring that your cherished dish remains just as delicious and creamy. This way, you’ll have a soul-soothing side ready to bring comfort to your table with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Creamed Peas and Potatoes
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Perfectly Cooked Garlic: Avoid bitterness by cooking the garlic just until fragrant—usually about one minute—before adding flour.
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Potato Choices: Stick with waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for optimal creaminess; avoid starchy potatoes which may become gummy.
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Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to add more heavy cream or even some reserved potato cooking water if the sauce seems too thick.
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Season to Taste: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavor of your creamed peas and potatoes.
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Vegetable Mix-Ins: Experiment with adding other vegetables like carrots or corn for added color and flavor diversity!
Creamed Peas and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of peas should I use for creamed peas and potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use either frozen or fresh peas in this recipe. While frozen peas provide convenience and sweetness, fresh peas will require a longer cooking time, usually around 5-10 minutes more, so keep that in mind while prepping your dish.
How long can I store creamed peas and potatoes in the refrigerator?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat and add a splash of fresh milk to restore that lovely creaminess.
Can I freeze creamed peas and potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze this comforting dish! To do so, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
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What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than you like, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of reserved potato cooking water or some additional heavy cream gradually until you reach your desired thickness. This helps maintain that silky texture that makes creamed peas and potatoes so comforting.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, if you’re keeping your dish dairy-free, you can use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the whole milk and heavy cream. Just remember, the flavor and texture will vary slightly, but it should still be delicious!
How can I enhance the flavor of creamed peas and potatoes?
For an extra flavor boost, consider sautéing some chopped onions along with the garlic or even adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a lovely aromatic touch as well. The more the merrier for customization!
Creamed Peas and Potatoes: Your New Favorite Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling and chopping 1 pound of potatoes into even-sized pieces and thaw 12 ounces of frozen peas.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the chopped potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the same pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and let it cook until bubbly. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while stirring until the mixture simmers and thickens slightly.
- Gently fold in the boiled potatoes and thawed peas into the creamy sauce, simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Mix in ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
