Creamed Peas and Potatoes: A Classic and Comforting Side Dish

Few dishes capture the warmth and nostalgia of home-cooked meals quite like Creamed Peas and Potatoes. This classic comfort food is rich, creamy, and packed with simple yet satisfying flavors. Whether served alongside a Sunday roast or as part of a holiday spread, this dish brings a touch of homemade goodness to any meal.

The combination of tender russet potatoes, sweet peas, and velvety cream sauce makes this side dish both hearty and delicious. With just a handful of staple ingredients, you can create a wholesome and flavorful recipe that will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.

Let’s explore the best way to prepare this time-honored dish, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions!

Why You’ll Love This Creamed Peas and Potatoes Recipe

• Simple & Wholesome: Made with basic pantry ingredients that are easy to find.
• Rich & Creamy: The heavy cream and butter create a smooth, velvety sauce.
• A Family Favorite: A dish that evokes warm childhood memories and pairs well with many main courses.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or potlucks.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great last-minute side dish.

Ingredients for Creamed Peas and Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic side dish:

Ingredient	Quantity
Russet potatoes, diced (½-inch)	2 cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Frozen peas	½ cup
Onion, finely diced	½ medium
Unsalted butter	1 tbsp
Dried dill	¼ tsp
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s start cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

• Peel and dice the russet potatoes into ½-inch cubes.
• Place the diced potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water.
• Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
• Cook the potatoes until they are tender but not mushy, about 8-10 minutes.
• Drain the potatoes and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

• Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the sautéed onions.
• Pour in the heavy cream and gently stir to combine.
• Stir in the frozen peas.
• Season with dried dill, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook and Thicken

• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
• Stir occasionally, ensuring the cream doesn’t boil to prevent curdling.
• Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the peas are fully heated and the sauce has slightly thickened.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Transfer the creamed peas and potatoes to a serving dish.
• Serve hot alongside your favorite roast, grilled meat, or vegetarian entrée.

Tips for the Best Creamed Peas and Potatoes

• Use Fresh Peas When Available: While frozen peas work great, fresh peas add a natural sweetness.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: You want them tender but firm, not mushy.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the salt, pepper, and dill according to your preference.
• Thicken the Sauce If Needed: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
• Try Adding Cheese: A handful of grated Parmesan or cheddar can make this dish even richer.

Delicious Variations to Try

Make It Lighter

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a less rich version.

Add More Vegetables

• Stir in carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and texture.

Make It Vegan

• Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy-based heavy cream.
• Replace butter with olive oil for a plant-based option.

Enhance the Flavor

• Add minced garlic while sautéing the onions for extra depth.
• Sprinkle with grated nutmeg for a warm, slightly sweet touch.

What to Serve with Creamed Peas and Potatoes

This comforting side dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, such as:

• Roast Chicken – The creamy texture complements the crispiness of oven-roasted poultry.
• Grilled Steak or Pork Chops – A rich and hearty combination.
• Baked Salmon – Balances well with the flaky, buttery texture of fish.
• Vegetarian Entrées – Try it with a quinoa salad, sautéed greens, or stuffed bell peppers.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250
Carbs	28g
Protein	5g
Fat	13g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	320mg

(Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

2. How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Avoid boiling the cream—keep it at a gentle simmer and stir occasionally.

3. Can I freeze creamed peas and potatoes?

This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy-based sauce, which may separate when thawed.

4. What other seasonings work well in this dish?

Try adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or thyme for extra depth.

5. Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes! Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well and hold their shape.

6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is thickened.

Final Thoughts: A Comforting and Classic Side Dish

Creamed Peas and Potatoes is a timeless, comforting dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as part of a holiday spread, a Sunday dinner, or a simple weeknight meal, its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors will make it an instant favorite.

Why not give this delicious homemade recipe a try today? Your family will love this simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with just about anything!

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