There’s a certain comfort in dishes that take us back to simpler times, and for me, nothing embodies that feeling quite like creamed peas and potatoes. The moment I whip up this creamy delight, the aroma of butter and garlic fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. As fresh, sweet peas tumble into silky smooth potatoes, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, reminding me of family dinners where laughter echoed and plates were eagerly filled.
This recipe is a perfect blend of ease and flavor, transforming humble ingredients into a comforting side dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or add a heartwarming touch to your holiday gatherings, creamed peas and potatoes delivers a satisfying warmth that just feels like home. Ready to recreate that cozy experience? Let’s bring this classic recipe to your kitchen!
Why are Creamed Peas and Potatoes so beloved?
Comforting warmth: This dish brings back memories of family gatherings, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, anyone can whip it up in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables or proteins to fit your taste!
Creamy indulgence: That silky sauce clings to each potato and pea, creating an irresistible flavor combination.
Crowd-pleaser: It pairs well with virtually any main dish, making it a versatile side for any occasion.
Perfect for leftovers: Enjoy it the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully!
Creamed Peas and Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• New Potatoes – Perfectly tender, they provide both bulk and texture to the dish; you can substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes if desired.
For the Peas
• Peas – Bright and sweet, adding color and freshness; use fresh peas towards the end of cooking or frozen peas for convenience.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Forms the base for the roux, lending a velvety creaminess; feel free to replace it with plant-based margarine if going dairy-free.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce beautifully; a gluten-free alternative would be gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
• Whole Milk – Ensures a luscious, creamy texture; non-dairy options like almond or oat milk also work well.
For Seasoning
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to your personal taste.
• Black Pepper – Adds a bit of warmth and spice; freshly ground is preferred for the best flavor.
• Garlic Powder (optional) – Infuses additional savory notes; skip it if you’re not a fan.
For Garnish
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish with a pop of color; consider swapping for thyme or chives if you want a different herby flavor.
This simple yet delightful combination of ingredients makes Creamed Peas and Potatoes a quintessential comfort food!
How to Make Creamed Peas and Potatoes
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Prepare the Potatoes: Place halved new potatoes in a pot, cover them with cold water, and sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and let the water get bubbling away.
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Cook until Tender: Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If using fresh peas, toss them in during the last 2-3 minutes; otherwise, set aside frozen peas for later.
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Make the Roux: Drain the potatoes (and peas if using frozen) and melt unsalted butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it’s bubbly but not browned.
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Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk into the roux, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, which will take about 4-5 minutes. Keep that whisk moving to prevent any lumps!
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Season to Taste: Once your sauce has thickened, season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste; adjust as needed to make it just right for you.
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Combine Everything: Gently fold the cooked potatoes and sweet peas into the creamy sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to meld those lovely flavors.
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Serve and Enjoy! Dish it out hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra touch of brightness.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dash of cayenne for a kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamed Peas and Potatoes
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Whisk Gradually: Ensure a smooth sauce by whisking in the milk slowly into the roux—this prevents lumps and results in a creamy texture.
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Adjust Thickness: If your sauce turns out too thick, simply whisk in more milk until you reach the desired consistency; for a thinner sauce, allow it to simmer longer.
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Flavor Enhancements: For richer flavor, consider stirring in grated Parmesan cheese or a hint of cayenne pepper to elevate your creamed peas and potatoes.
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Mind Your Timing: If using fresh peas, add them in the last few minutes of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and sweet taste.
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Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust the seasoning at the end; every palate is different, and a little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamed Peas and Potatoes are perfect for busy home cooks striving for easy meal prep! You can prepare the potatoes and creamy sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance, allowing your weeknights to be hassle-free. Simply cook the new potatoes and set them aside in an airtight container, along with the cooled sauce. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat both in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain that luscious creaminess. Toss the sweet peas in during the last few minutes of reheating for vibrant freshness. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting warmth and flavor just as deliciously as if prepared fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Creamed Peas and Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover creamed peas and potatoes in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Separation Prevention: To avoid separation of the sauce when freezing, mix in a bit more milk after reheating to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the potatoes and sauce separately a day in advance. Store each in airtight containers, then combine and reheat right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Creamed Peas and Potatoes Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to personalize your recipe and elevate the flavors you love.
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Herbs Galore: Swap out the parsley for fresh dill or chives to add a unique, fragrant touch to your dish. The fresh herbs will infuse the whole meal with vibrancy!
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in a handful of grated sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the creamy sauce for a rich, savory layer that makes the dish even more indulgent.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while whisking in the milk for a fiery boost, giving your comforting dish a lively twist.
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Vegetarian Protein: Mix in some cooked lentils or chickpeas for an extra protein punch that also adds texture and heartiness, making it suitable for vegetarian diners.
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Luxury Coconut: Substitute regular milk with canned coconut milk for a tropical twist and added creaminess, enhancing both texture and flavor wonderfully.
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Colorful Veggie Medley: Incorporate chopped carrots or bell peppers for a crunchy, colorful addition that not only looks appealing but also adds sweetness.
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Bacon Lover’s Touch: For a smoky flavor, sprinkle crispy crumbled bacon on top just before serving. This simple addition brings a delicious, salty crunch.
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Nutty Flavor: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts added as a topping introduces a delightful crunch, lending an earthy richness to the creamy combination.
What to Serve with Creamed Peas and Potatoes?
Transform your comforting dish into a full meal that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.
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Roasted Chicken: The crispy, herb-infused skin of a perfectly roasted chicken balances beautifully with the creamy potatoes. A match made in heaven for any occasion!
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Grilled Salmon: The flaky, rich flavors of salmon pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce, while adding a healthy dose of omega-3s to your meal. Consider a squeeze of lemon on the fish for a refreshing twist!
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Pork Tenderloin: Juicy pork tenderloin adds a savory depth next to the creamy peas and potatoes, creating a satisfying plate filled with both comfort and sophistication.
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Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms complement the dish’s creaminess with their umami richness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates that comforting experience to new heights.
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Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the thick, buttery sauce. The crunch and zest will keep things balanced!
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is the ideal sip alongside your meal, complementing the dish’s creamy textures without overpowering the flavors.
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Garlic Bread: For bread lovers, a slice of garlic bread serves as the perfect accompaniment, adding a crunchy element to scoop up those creamy potatoes.
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Apple Pie: Seal the deal with a slice of warm apple pie for dessert; its sweetness harmonizes with the savory notes of the meal, leaving everyone satisfied and smiling.
Creamed Peas and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best new potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for new potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating they are fresh and full of moisture. If you can find smaller ones, they often have a sweeter taste and creamy texture, which will enhance your creamed peas and potatoes.
What is the best way to store leftover creamed peas and potatoes?
Very simple! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop with a splash of whole milk or water, stirring occasionally until heated through. This will help restore some of that creamy texture!
Can I freeze creamed peas and potatoes?
Absolutely, you can freeze this dish! To do so, let it cool completely, then transfer the creamed peas and potatoes into an airtight container or freezer bag—and be sure to label it with the date. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk as needed to bring back the creaminess.
What should I do if my sauce turns out too thick or too thin?
No worries at all! If your sauce is too thick, you can easily whisk in additional milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. On the flip side, if it’s too thin, let it simmer on low heat for a few extra minutes to thicken. You can also create a slurry by mixing a teaspoon of flour with cold milk, then stir it in and cook for a few more minutes until thickened to your liking.
Is there a way to make creamed peas and potatoes dairy-free?
Yes, indeed! I often use plant-based margarine in place of butter and non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk instead of whole milk. This way, you can still enjoy that creamy comfort without dairy. Additionally, ensure you’re using gluten-free flour or cornstarch if needed. Feel free to get creative with seasonings and herbs to make it just perfect for your taste!
Creamed Peas and Potatoes: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place halved new potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, and sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook until the water is boiling, then reduce heat to medium and cook for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. If using fresh peas, toss them in during the last 2-3 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes (and peas if using frozen) and melt unsalted butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until bubbly but not browned.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk into the roux, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste; adjust as needed.
- Gently fold the cooked potatoes and sweet peas into the creamy sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for extra brightness.