Creamed Peas and Potatoes is a timeless comfort food side dish that brings together tender red potatoes and sweet green peas in a rich, velvety white sauce. It’s a dish that evokes memories of Sunday dinners, garden harvests, and cozy family gatherings. The creamy sauce, made from a simple roux and milk, coats each bite with a luscious texture, while the peas add a pop of color and sweetness. Whether served alongside roasted meats or as part of a holiday spread, this dish is both humble and heartwarming.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds red potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped onion or 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Source: Adapted from Favorite Family Recipes
Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Peas
- If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain.
- If using frozen peas, simply thaw or cook according to package instructions.
3. Make the Cream Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens to a gravy-like consistency, about 5–7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Heat Through
- Gently fold the cooked potatoes and peas into the cream sauce.
- Stir carefully to coat everything evenly without breaking the potatoes.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
5. Serve
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled pork chops.
- Serve alongside meatloaf or fried chicken for a classic Southern-style meal.
- Add a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips & Variations:
- Add onion: Sauté chopped onion in the butter before adding flour for extra flavor.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
- Add bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch.
- Use cream: For a richer sauce, replace ½ cup of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
Time & Yield:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
- Serves: 4–6
- Calories: ~180–250 per serving (depending on milk and butter used)
This dish is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Would you like a version with sweet potatoes or a dairy-free alternative? I’d be happy to help customize it for your table!