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!