If you’re on the hunt for a simple comfort-food side that feels just like a warm hug, then this Creamed Peas Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. I absolutely love how this dish turns everyday frozen peas into a silky, luscious treat that pairs beautifully with just about any main course. Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving something cozy and quick, this recipe will totally deliver.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Quick: You’ll have this creamy side ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Simple Pantry Staples: Made with ingredients you probably already have on hand—no fancy shopping needed.
- Kid-Approved Comfort: My family can’t get enough of this mild, buttery dish that sneaks in some veggies.
- Versatile Pairing: Works beautifully alongside meats, pasta, or even as a base for a vegetarian meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This creamed peas recipe shines because of its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a role in creating that velvety sauce and tender peas combo—plus, it’s super forgiving if you want to tweak it a bit.
- Frozen peas: Using frozen peas is a time-saver and they actually lock in sweetness and freshness better than fresh peas in my opinion.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create that silky roux base for the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce just right without any lumps if stirred properly.
- Salt: Enhances flavors and balances the natural sweetness of the peas.
- Black pepper: Just a touch to keep the flavor interesting, without overpowering.
- Whole milk: Creates creamy, smooth texture—full-fat milk makes a lovely difference here.
- Sugar: A tiny bit to bring out the natural sweetness and round out the flavor of the peas.
Variations
I like to switch things up depending on the season and my mood, and you should totally do the same! This Creamed Peas Recipe is flexible and welcomes your tweaks.
- Add fresh herbs: I often sprinkle fresh mint or thyme on top—it adds a bright, garden-fresh note that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
- Make it dairy-free: Substitute butter with olive oil and use your favorite plant-based milk to keep it creamy without dairy.
- Extra veggies: Stir in some finely diced carrots or pearl onions for extra texture and flavor.
- Spicy twist: If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce livens up the dish.
How to Make Creamed Peas Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Peas Perfectly
Start by cooking the peas according to the package directions. I usually steam mine in a covered saucepan with just a splash of water so they stay bright green and tender—not mushy. You can also microwave them or boil briefly. The key is to keep them from overcooking because you want a little snap left to contrast the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Make a Silky Roux Sauce
While the peas cook, melt butter gently in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour along with salt and pepper so everything blends smoothly—the flour cooks out and the base thickens. Gradually whisk in the milk and sugar; bringing it to a gentle boil while stirring will help it thicken evenly without lumps. It just takes a minute or two, and then your luscious, creamy sauce is ready.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Drain the peas well—this little step makes a huge difference to keep your sauce rich and not watery. Gently stir the peas into your sauce and let everything heat through for a few minutes. Taste and add extra seasoning if you want. Voilà! Your creamy, dreamy side dish is ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Making Creamed Peas Recipe
- Drain Well: I learned the hard way—wet peas water down the sauce big time, so don’t skip draining thoroughly.
- Freshness Counts: Frozen peas actually work better than fresh for most of the year since they’re picked and frozen at peak ripeness.
- Whisk Smooth: Adding the milk gradually while stirring vigorously prevents lumps in your cream sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste as you go—sometimes I add a little less sugar depending on the peas’ natural sweetness.
How to Serve Creamed Peas Recipe
Garnishes
I personally love a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a tiny pinch of paprika on top—it adds just a hint of warmth and color. Fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives give a nice pop of green and freshness. Sometimes I add a few toasted breadcrumbs for a subtle crunch that feels so special.
Side Dishes
This creamed peas recipe pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, or a simple baked salmon. It’s also delightful alongside mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to round out the meal. Honestly, my family often ends up eating it as a veggie “main” with some good bread on the side!
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, I like to serve creamed peas in small individual ramekins topped with crispy prosciutto bits and a drizzle of truffle oil—fancy but so easy! You can also layer it with sautéed mushrooms for a more decadent side or spoon it over baked potatoes as a creamy topping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I let leftover creamed peas cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep nicely for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, you might notice the sauce thickens—don’t worry! It’s easy to remedy.
Freezing
Freezing creamed peas isn’t my favorite because the cream sauce can separate a bit upon thawing, but if you want to freeze, use freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge. Give it a good stir when reheating.
Reheating
I reheat creamed peas gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. Microwaving works too—just cover loosely and stir halfway through to keep it even.
FAQs
-
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for this Creamed Peas Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh peas can be used, but you’ll want to cook them briefly since they’re more delicate than frozen. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking and losing that bright green color and snap.
-
How do I prevent lumps in the creamed sauce?
Whisk the flour and butter together first to form a smooth roux, then add the milk gradually while whisking constantly. This slow incorporation helps avoid lumps and keeps the sauce silky.
-
Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?
You can easily adapt it by swapping butter for olive oil or a dairy-free spread, and using your favorite plant-based milk to maintain creaminess.
-
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this creamed peas recipe keeps well in the fridge for a few days, just reheat gently and add a splash of milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Final Thoughts
I’ve made this Creamed Peas Recipe countless times, and it never fails to bring comfort and a little bit of nostalgia to the table. Especially on busy days, it’s such a lifesaver—quick, luscious, and satisfying without a bunch of fuss. I really encourage you to give it a go and make it your own. You might just find yourself coming back to it as a cozy side dish staple too!
Print
Creamed Peas Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamed Peas is a quick and easy side dish made with frozen peas cooked to perfection and combined with a rich, creamy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a hint of sugar. This comforting dish is ideal for enhancing ordinary weeknight dinners with a touch of cozy satisfaction using simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
Peas
- 1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Cook the peas: Cook the frozen peas according to the package directions. You can use the microwave or stovetop method; ensure they are cooked just right. Drain thoroughly to remove any excess moisture, which is essential to achieve a rich and creamy sauce.
- Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and add the sugar, continuing to stir to avoid lumps.
- Thicken the sauce: Bring the sauce mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Continue cooking and stirring for one to two minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine peas and sauce: Add the drained peas into the thickened sauce. Stir well to coat the peas thoroughly with the creamed sauce. Cook together for a few minutes to heat through fully.
- Serve: Once heated, remove from the stove and serve immediately as a cozy, delicious side dish that complements any meal.
Notes
- For a quick and easy side dish that’s cozy and satisfying, creamed peas checks all the boxes.
- Made with pantry ingredients, it will turn ordinary weeknight dinners into something special.
- Be sure to drain the peas thoroughly to keep your sauce rich and creamy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 271 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg
