Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamed Peas are the perfect balance of rich and creamy with a natural sweetness from the peas. The dish is simple, quick to prepare, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a classic side for a family dinner, a holiday meal, or just want to try something new with your peas, this recipe is a must-try. It’s comforting, satisfying, and will make your peas the star of the meal!

Ingredients

4 cups frozen peas (or fresh peas, if available)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer version)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Peas:

Cook the Peas: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the frozen peas and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until tender. If using fresh peas, blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water. Drain the peas and set them aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Make the Roux: In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Continue stirring for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour, but do not let it brown.
Add the Milk: Gradually add the milk (or cream), whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. For a touch of sweetness, add sugar, and for extra creaminess, stir in grated Parmesan cheese.

Combine the Peas and Sauce:

Add the Peas: Add the cooked peas back into the saucepan with the creamy sauce. Stir gently to coat the peas evenly with the sauce.
Simmer: Let the creamed peas simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the peas to absorb some of the creamy sauce.

Serve:

Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamed peas hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for color and a burst of freshness. Enjoy as a side dish to your favorite meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Herbed Creamed Peas: Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or dill to the sauce for a fragrant, herbal twist.
Cheesy Creamed Peas: Stir in a bit of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a cheesy version.
Add Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms in butter and add them to the sauce for a more savory version.
Spicy Creole Style: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover creamed peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to thin the sauce if needed. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh peas?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe and are a convenient option. They are already blanched and cook quickly, so you can easily substitute them for fresh peas.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamed peas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them before serving, and add a little extra milk or cream to adjust the consistency if needed.

Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

Yes, you can use a non-dairy milk like almond milk or coconut milk and a dairy-free butter to make this recipe dairy-free. The flavor will be a bit different, but it will still be delicious.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add more milk or cream, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Stir constantly as you add to ensure the sauce stays smooth.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even some chopped jalapeños for heat. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level.

Conclusion

Creamed Peas are a quick, easy, and comforting side dish that transforms ordinary peas into something extraordinary. With a rich, creamy sauce and a touch of seasoning, this dish is perfect for any meal, from casual dinners to holiday feasts. Whether you’re serving it as a side to your main dish or adding it to a larger spread, these creamed peas are sure to be a hit at your table!