If you are searching for a comforting, vibrant, and delightfully creamy side dish, this Creamed Peas Recipe perfectly fits the bill. It takes simple pantry staples and transforms frozen peas into a luscious, velvety treat that pairs wonderfully with everything from roast chicken to weeknight dinners. The gentle sweetness of tender peas combined with the rich, smooth white sauce brings color and warmth to your plate in just 15 minutes—making it one of those classic dishes that feels like a cozy hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is what makes this recipe so approachable. Each component plays an essential role in building that signature creamy texture and fresh, bright flavor that makes this Creamed Peas Recipe so irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides the deliciously silky base and helps cook the flour for the roux.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect creaminess without lumpiness.
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half): Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce; half-and-half will make it extra indulgent.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the flavors of the peas and sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the peas.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional): Lifts the natural sweetness of the peas for a flawless harmony.
- 2 cups frozen green peas (thawed): The star ingredient, providing vibrant color and fresh flavor even when out of season.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a cheerful pop of herbal brightness as a finishing touch.
How to Make Creamed Peas Recipe
Step 1: Make the Roux
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbly, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Keep stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until you see a light, golden roux forming—this step cooks out the raw flour taste and is the foundation for your creamy sauce.
Step 2: Add Milk and Thicken
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps and ensures your sauce stays silky smooth. Continue to stir frequently as the mixture heats, thickening to a luscious, creamy consistency after about 3 to 4 minutes. If you prefer extra richness, swap whole milk for half-and-half here to make the sauce even more decadent.
Step 3: Season and Combine Peas
Once your sauce is thick and beautiful, it’s time to add the seasonings. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and the optional sugar to balance the flavors. Then fold in your thawed peas gently, cooking everything together on low heat for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the peas are warmed through and fully infused with that creamy goodness.
Step 4: Final Touch and Serve
Remove the pot from heat and, if you like, sprinkle in some chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. This Creamed Peas Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed warm as a luscious side dish that feels both homey and elegant.
How to Serve Creamed Peas Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding a fresh color contrast and a mild herbal note to the richness of the peas. For a bit more sophistication, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or a light dusting of nutmeg—they meld beautifully with the creamy sauce and elevate the dish’s flavor profile wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Creamed Peas Recipe shines alongside a wide range of dishes. It’s a perfect partner for roast chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak. The creamy peas also complement hearty mashed potatoes and buttery dinner rolls, rounding out a comforting, balanced meal that pleases the whole family.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fresh twist, serve creamed peas topped with crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs to add a satisfying crunch. You can even spoon this creamy concoction over baked potatoes or add dollops to savory tarts and quiche for an extra burst of flavor and richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover creamed peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the sauce thickens as it chills, you may find it a bit denser when cold—but a quick stir and gentle reheating will bring back that silky texture.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the peas may soften slightly upon thawing. Transfer cooled creamed peas to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. To thaw, move to the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat creamed peas over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk or cream as you warm them to restore that irresistible creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving without stirring, as it can cause uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas add a wonderful bright flavor but may require a slightly different cooking time. Blanch fresh peas briefly before adding them to the sauce to keep them tender and vibrant.
Is this Creamed Peas Recipe dairy-free friendly?
While the traditional recipe relies on butter and milk, you can substitute with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil and almond or oat milk. Just be mindful that the sauce’s texture and flavor will vary slightly.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Dill, chives, or thyme pair beautifully with peas and add aromatic complexity. Experiment with a pinch of nutmeg as well, which enhances the creamy sauce’s warmth.
How can I make this recipe richer?
Using half-and-half instead of milk or stirring in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese adds luxurious creaminess and depth of flavor, transforming it into a truly indulgent side.
Is there a way to make creamed peas healthier?
Yes, you can reduce the butter amount and swap half of the milk for vegetable broth to lighten the sauce while keeping plenty of flavor. Adding fresh lemon zest can also boost brightness without extra calories.
Final Thoughts
This Creamed Peas Recipe is a timeless classic that deserves a spot on your weekly menu. It’s quick, easy, and provides a vibrant, creamy burst of flavor that elevates any meal. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish brings a warm familiarity and a touch of elegance in every spoonful. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy peas!
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Creamed Peas Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamed Peas is a classic American side dish featuring tender green peas simmered in a rich, creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. This easy-to-make recipe delivers comfort food with a smooth texture and subtle seasoning, perfect as an accompaniment to a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 2 cups frozen green peas (thawed)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a light roux which will thicken the sauce.
- Add milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the mixture thickens—about 3–4 minutes, creating a creamy base.
- Season and combine: Add salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir in the thawed peas, cooking for another 3–5 minutes or until the peas are heated through and the sauce is thick and creamy.
- Finish and serve: Remove the saucepan from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of nutmeg before serving.
- You can sauté a bit of minced onion or shallot in the butter before adding flour for added aroma and depth.
- Using half-and-half instead of whole milk will give a richer, creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
