Creamed peas and potatoes is one of those comforting side dishes that just warms your heart and fills your belly! I remember growing up, my family would gather around the table, and this dish was always a favorite. The combination of tender potatoes and sweet peas in a creamy sauce is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this side dish never fails to make everyone smile. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want it on your table for every family gathering! It’s easy to make, and the flavors are just so satisfying. Let’s dive in!
Creamed peas and potatoes is one of those comforting side dishes that just warms your heart and fills your belly! I remember growing up, my family would gather around the table, and this dish was always a favorite. The combination of tender potatoes and sweet peas in a creamy sauce is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this side dish never fails to make everyone smile. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want it on your table for every family gathering! It’s easy to make, and the flavors are just so satisfying. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of diced potatoes: Use your favorite variety—russet or Yukon gold work wonderfully! Just peel them and chop into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 1 cup of green peas: Fresh peas are delightful if you can find them, but frozen peas are a great time-saver and still taste fantastic!
- 2 tablespoons of butter: This will give your sauce a rich flavor. I always use unsalted butter to control the seasoning better.
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the creamy sauce. Make sure to whisk it well with the butter to avoid lumps!
- 1 cup of milk: Whole milk works best for a creamy texture, but you can use low-fat if that’s what you have on hand.
- Salt to taste: A little sprinkle enhances all the flavors—don’t be shy, but taste as you go!
- Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a lovely kick; just adjust it to your liking!
How to Prepare Creamed Peas and Potatoes
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this delicious creamed peas and potatoes! I promise it’s easier than you think, and the end result is so worth it. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, peel and dice your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly. I usually aim for about 1-inch cubes. Set them aside for now.
- Next, fill a pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add your diced potatoes and cook until they’re tender. This should take about 10-12 minutes, but keep an eye on them—nobody likes mushy potatoes!
- While the potatoes are cooking, grab your peas. If you’re using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just toss them into the pot with the potatoes for the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. They’ll cook up perfectly in the boiling water!
- In another saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk it together for about 1-2 minutes. This is your roux, and it’s essential for thickening the sauce!
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. This helps prevent any lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens up—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You want it to coat the back of a spoon nicely.
- When your potatoes and peas are done, drain them and then add them back into the pot. Pour the creamy sauce over them and gently stir until everything is well coated. Oh, the aroma is heavenly!
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir, and you’re ready to serve! Enjoy this comforting dish warm, and watch how it disappears from the table!
Tips for Success
To make sure your creamed peas and potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, always taste your potatoes while they’re cooking to ensure they’re tender but not overcooked. Nobody wants a mushy mess! When you whisk the flour with the butter, keep an eye on it to avoid burning; a light golden color is ideal. If you want an even creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. And don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper—these simple additions really enhance the dish’s flavor. Trust me, you’ll impress everyone with your creamy creation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- A comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with any main course.
- The creamy texture and sweet peas create a delightful flavor combination.
- Kids and adults alike will love this dish—it’s a family favorite!
- Can be customized with herbs or spices to suit your taste.
- Leftovers are just as delicious—perfect for meal prep!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of creamed peas and potatoes. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a nice balance of nutrients to accompany your meals. Enjoy this comforting side guilt-free!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious creamed peas and potatoes ready, let’s talk about what to pair them with! This dish is incredibly versatile and complements so many main courses. I love serving it alongside a juicy roasted chicken or a tender beef roast—it truly elevates the meal! If you’re looking for something lighter, try it with grilled fish or a hearty vegetable stir-fry. And don’t forget about a fresh green salad to balance out the creaminess! Honestly, whatever you choose, this comforting side dish will steal the show and have everyone coming back for seconds!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover creamed peas and potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce has thickened too much, just add a splash of milk to loosen it up and restore that creamy texture. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, heating in short intervals and stirring in between to ensure even heating. Trust me, they’re just as delicious the second time around!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are a fantastic option and save you time. Just toss them in with the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking, and they’ll be perfectly tender.
What can I add for extra flavor?
If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. They elevate the dish beautifully! You might also try a squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamed peas and potatoes ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and reheat gently before serving. It’s a great meal prep option!
How do I prevent the sauce from being lumpy?
To avoid lumps, whisk the flour well with the melted butter, and add the milk slowly while stirring continuously. This ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, creamed peas and potatoes are completely vegetarian, making them a perfect side dish for any meatless meal!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Classic Baked Chicken with Potatoes!
Print
Creamed Peas and Potatoes: 7 Comforting Moments Await
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamed peas and potatoes is a comforting side dish combining tender potatoes and sweet peas in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of diced potatoes
- 1 cup of green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of milk
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender.
- Add the peas to the boiling potatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the melted butter and stir for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until thickened.
- Combine the cream sauce with the potatoes and peas.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- You can use half-and-half for a richer sauce.
- Add herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Saucing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: creamed peas and potatoes, side dish, comfort food
