If you’re looking for a comforting, classic side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamed Peas Recipe is exactly what you need. Featuring tender green peas enveloped in a luscious, velvety cream sauce, this dish is simple yet indulgent, bringing a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes that can brighten any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday roast or as a cozy weeknight treat, these creamed peas never fail to impress with their creamy texture and vibrant color.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — a handful of basic ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays a critical role: the butter and flour build the creamy base, while the milk and cream deliver richness and tenderness; seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the peas, making every bite memorable.
- 3 cups green peas (fresh or frozen): The star of the dish, providing sweetness, color, and bite.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, silky sauce when combined with flour.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency without lumps.
- 1 cup whole milk: The main liquid that makes the sauce luscious and velvety.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Boosts creaminess and gives the peas that indulgent texture everyone loves.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of spice to balance the sweetness of the peas.
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional): A pinch to deepen the peas’ natural sweetness if desired.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Introduces a subtle savory note that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
How to Make Creamed Peas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peas
If you’re using frozen peas, cook according to the package instructions and drain them well. Fresh peas can be blanched quickly in boiling water until tender and then shocked in ice water to keep their vibrant green color. Well-drained peas ensure your sauce is creamy, not watery.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and allow it to cook for about one minute. Aim for a bubbly but pale flour mixture — this step is where your sauce begins to thicken and develop its creamy base without any raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Milk and Thicken
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. This helps avoid lumps and encourages a smooth sauce. Keep stirring over medium heat until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, usually about three to four minutes. This step is the heart of the creamed peas’ luxurious texture.
Step 4: Finish the Cream Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and if you’re using them, sugar and garlic powder. Each addition layers flavor and richness, turning your sauce into the luscious complement that perfectly envelopes the peas.
Step 5: Combine Peas with Cream Sauce
Add the cooked peas into the sauce gently, folding them in so every pea is touched by that creamy goodness. Let the mixture cook together for another two to three minutes to warm through and marry the flavors fully.
How to Serve Creamed Peas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and fresh-herb brightness that contrasts with the richness. A light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg can also elevate the cream’s warmth and depth.
Side Dishes
Creamed peas shine as a side to roast chicken, turkey, or ham, especially during festive dinners. Their creamy texture pairs beautifully with crisp or roasted vegetables and buttery mashed potatoes, creating a comforting and well-rounded plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the creamed peas into individual ramekins topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust broiled briefly for a delightful textural contrast. Alternatively, use them as a bed for pan-seared fish or grilled meats to add a rich, flavorful base.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because the sauce thickens as it chills, you might need to stir in a splash of milk before reheating.
Freezing
This creamed peas recipe freezes well, making it a great make-ahead side. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Rewarm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to restore creaminess without breaking the sauce. Adding a bit of milk or cream when reheating helps regain that fresh-from-the-stove texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas for this Creamed Peas Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peas work wonderfully and are quite convenient. Just be sure to cook and drain them well to avoid excess water in your sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk along with coconut cream to keep the creamy consistency while making it dairy-free.
Can I add herbs or spices to change the flavor?
Yes! Fresh thyme, dill, or a pinch of nutmeg can add lovely complexity without overpowering the delicate pea flavor.
How long does this dish keep in the fridge?
Stored properly, it remains fresh for about three days. Beyond that, freshness and flavor will start to decline.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Slowly whisk in more milk or cream as needed to loosen it up while reheating or finishing the dish. The goal is a velvety, spoonable texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamed Peas Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style, delivering comfort and elegance in every bite. Once you try this luscious, creamy delight, it will surely become a favorite in your household too. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists — just savor each spoonful of those tender peas swimming in rich, velvety sauce!
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
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Creamed Peas recipe features tender green peas coated in a rich, velvety cream sauce. It’s a comforting American side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop, making it perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners.
Ingredients
Peas
- 3 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Peas: If using frozen peas, cook them according to package instructions, then drain them well to remove excess water.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until the mixture is lightly bubbly but not browned, creating a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and if desired, sugar and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Incorporate Peas: Add the cooked peas to the sauce and gently stir to coat them thoroughly.
- Heat Through: Cook the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the peas are heated through and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve: Serve the creamed peas warm as a savory side dish.
Notes
- For extra richness, increase the heavy cream slightly or add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
- This dish pairs excellently with roasted meats or as part of a holiday meal spread.
