Creamed Peas and Potatoes
A beloved Southern comfort food classic that brings together tender boiled potatoes and sweet green peas in a rich, savory cream sauce. This simple, heartwarming side dish is ready in just 30 minutes and pairs perfectly with almost any main course.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Boil the Potatoes
- b.Place the diced potatoes in a medium pot. Add 8 cups of cold water and 1 tablespoon of salt, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged.
- c.Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- d.Reduce the heat to a steady simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are just fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they should hold their shape.
- e.Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander and set them aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Cream Sauce (Roux)
- b.While the potatoes are boiling, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- d.Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onions. Stir constantly with a whisk for 60-90 seconds to cook out the raw flour taste. This mixture is your roux.
- e.Slowly pour in about 1/4 cup of the warm milk, whisking vigorously to form a smooth, thick paste. This prevents lumps.
- f.Gradually whisk in the remaining milk until the sauce is completely smooth.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine and Simmer
- b.Increase the heat slightly to bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook, stirring often, for 4-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- c.Season the sauce with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Gently fold in the drained, cooked potatoes and the frozen peas. Stir carefully to coat everything without mashing the potatoes.
- e.Continue to cook over medium-low heat for another 3-4 minutes, until the peas are bright green and everything is heated through.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste the dish and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary.
- c.Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- d.Serve immediately as a warm and comforting side dish.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape well after boiling.
- 2Warming the milk before adding it to the roux helps create a smoother, lump-free sauce.
- 3Do not thaw the frozen peas before adding them. They will cook perfectly in the hot sauce and help cool it down slightly to prevent overcooking the potatoes.
- 4For a richer sauce, you can replace half a cup of the whole milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- 5A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper added to the sauce can provide a lovely warmth and depth of flavor.
- 6Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add 1 cup of diced cooked ham or crispy bacon bits along with the peas for a more substantial dish.
Cheesy TwistCheesy Twist
Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese at the end until melted for a rich, cheesy sauce.
Herbaceous FlavorHerbaceous Flavor
Incorporate other fresh herbs like dill or chives along with the parsley for a different flavor profile.
New England StyleNew England Style
Use small, boiled pearl onions instead of chopped yellow onion for a classic New England variation.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates from potatoes offer a steady release of energy, making this a satisfying and fueling side dish.
Good Source of Fiber
Both peas and potatoes contribute dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help promote a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Peas are an excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and manganese, while potatoes provide Vitamin C and potassium, supporting overall health and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Creamed Peas and Potatoes recipe contains approximately 355 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion size.