Creamed Peas
Tender green peas enveloped in a rich, velvety cream sauce. This classic American side dish is pure comfort food, ready in under 15 minutes and perfect for holidays or a simple weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.In a medium saucepan or skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- c.Add the finely minced shallot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it brown.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Roux and Sauce
- b.Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened shallots. Stir constantly with a whisk for about 60-90 seconds to cook out the raw flour taste. This mixture is called a roux.
- c.Gradually pour in the room temperature milk, a little at a time, while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
- d.Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce comes to a gentle simmer and thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add Peas and Seasonings
- b.Stir the frozen peas directly into the thickened cream sauce.
- c.Add the salt, freshly ground black pepper, sugar, and ground nutmeg. Stir until everything is well combined.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer and Serve
- b.Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- c.Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep the peas bright green and prevent them from becoming mushy.
- d.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer, more decadent sauce, substitute heavy cream or half-and-half for up to half of the milk.
- 2Using frozen peas directly from the freezer helps them maintain their vibrant green color and firm texture.
- 3For extra flavor and texture, add a handful of small pearl onions (thawed if frozen) along with the peas.
- 4A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle warmth that beautifully contrasts the creamy sauce.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has become too thick.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbed Creamed Peas
Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or chives at the very end of cooking for a fresh, bright flavor.
Creamed Peas and CarrotsCreamed Peas and Carrots
Add 1 cup of finely diced, cooked carrots along with the frozen peas for a classic vegetable combination.
Smoky Creamed PeasSmoky Creamed Peas
Add 2-3 strips of cooked, crumbled bacon or a 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce for a savory, smoky twist.
Vegan Creamed PeasVegan Creamed Peas
Use plant-based butter, full-fat oat or soy milk, and omit the sugar or replace with a touch of maple syrup. A tablespoon of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy, savory flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Peas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements, and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Source of Plant-Based Protein
Green peas provide a significant amount of plant-based protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle health, and overall body function.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
This dish offers essential nutrients from peas, including Vitamin K for bone health, Vitamin A for vision, Vitamin C for immune support, and manganese, an important antioxidant.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Creamed Peas recipe contains approximately 260-290 calories, depending on the exact fat content of the milk used.