Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Requires minimal preparation and cooking time.
- Comforting Flavor: The creamy sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the peas.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Directions
-
Cook the Peas: Prepare the frozen peas according to package directions. Drain any excess water and set aside.
-
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Gradually add the milk and sugar, stirring continuously.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cook and stir for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
-
Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked peas to the saucepan, stirring to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, heating through.
- Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 4.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes.
- Cook Time: 10 minutes.
- Total Time: 15 minutes.
Variations
- Add Bacon: For added richness, sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the creamed peas before serving.
- Incorporate Onions: Sauté half of a small onion in butter until softened, then add to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Herb Enhancements: Stir in fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme to brighten the dish.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or curry powder to the sauce for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to reach desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding to the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use unsweetened almond or soy milk.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold milk and stir into the simmering sauce until it thickens.
Can I freeze creamed peas?
It’s not recommended to freeze creamed peas, as the dairy-based sauce may separate upon thawing and reheating.
Conclusion
Creamed peas are a delightful and straightforward side dish that brings comfort to any meal. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, they are sure to become a family favorite.
Creamed Peas
Creamed peas are a quick, comforting side dish that combines tender peas in a rich, creamy sauce. Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe comes together in just about 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Comfort Food, Quick Meals
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
-
Cook the Peas:
- Prepare the frozen peas according to the package directions. Drain any excess water and set aside.
-
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Gradually add the milk and sugar, stirring continuously.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cook and stir for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
-
Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked peas to the saucepan and stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, heating through.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Incorporate Onions: Sauté half of a small onion in butter until softened, then add to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Herb Enhancements: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme for a fresh, bright flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or curry powder for a unique twist.
