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This creamed peas recipe is easy, creamy, and flavorful! A classic side dish with simple ingredients that’s ready in just minutes.
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A Classic Comfort Food Made Easy
Creamed peas is a classic, nostalgic dish that brings together the natural sweetness of peas with a silky, buttery white sauce. It’s a staple in my kitchen because it pairs nicely with just about any main course. Plus, it’s made with simple pantry ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Let me walk you through the fool-proof steps to creating a batch of creamy peas that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is a breeze to follow!
Ingredients for Creamed Peas
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Peas – Fresh or frozen both work great! I prefer frozen for convenience, but fresh peas add a nice, vibrant touch.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor. Use unsalted if you want more control over the seasoning.
- All-Purpose Flour – This helps thicken the creamy sauce, giving it a smooth and velvety texture.
- Milk or Cream – Whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream will all do the trick. The richer the dairy, the creamier your sauce!
- Salt & Pepper – Add to taste. Essential to enhance the natural sweetness of the peas and the flavors of the dish overall.
How to Make Creamed Peas (Step-by-Step)
1. Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and stir continuously for about 30 seconds. This helps create a smooth base for your sauce.
2. Add Milk or Cream
Slowly pour in the milk (or cream), whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer (while whisking) until it thickens into a silky sauce that is the consistency of thin gravy or béchamel sauce —this usually takes a couple of minutes.
3. Stir in the Peas
Add the peas directly into the creamy sauce and stir gently. If using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them first—they’ll cook perfectly in the warm sauce within 7-8 minutes.
4. Season to Taste
Once the peas are tender, season with salt and pepper to taste. If your sauce gets too thick, just add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Your creamed peas are now ready to be served! Spoon them over mashed potatoes, pair them with roasted meats, or enjoy them straight from the bowl (I won’t judge!).
Optional Add-Ins, and Variations:
Kick this classic dish up a notch by trying these flavorful additions:
- Diced Potatoes – Add small red or gold potatoes to make creamed peas and potatoes!
- Onions or Garlic – Sauté chopped, diced, or pearl onions or minced garlic (or both!) in butter before adding the flour for extra depth of flavor.
- Herbs & Spices – Fresh thyme, parsley, or dill add brightness and complexity to the dish, while a dash of nutmeg or white pepper enhances the creamy richness.
- Parmesan Cheese – Stir in or sprinkle on top a bit of grated Parmesan for a subtle cheesy touch.
- Crispy Bacon – Crumble cooked bacon over the top for a smoky, savory boost.
- Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy flavor that complements the cream sauce.
What to Serve with Creamed Peas
Creamed peas are such a versatile side dish that complement a variety of dishes. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Roasted, Grilled, or Baked Chicken
- Grilled Salmon
- Roast Beef
- Mashed Potatoes
- Rice Pilaf
- Grilled Pork Chops
- Baked Ham
Healthier Creamed Peas Alternatives
Looking for a lighter version? Try these easy swaps:
- Use Low-Fat Dairy – Substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk, skim milk, or unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
- Reduce Butter – Use less butter or replace with a healthier alternative like olive oil or coconut oil.
- Add More Veggies – Toss in diced carrots, spinach, or cauliflower for extra nutrients.
- Minimize Salt – Instead of relying on excessive salt for seasoning, enhance the flavors with herbs or spices. Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill can add a burst of freshness without relying heavily on salt.
- Use Cornstarch for a Gluten-Free Option – Swap out the flour for cornstarch to keep it gluten-free without compromising texture.
Creamed Peas
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (or cream)
- 1 (12-ounce) bag frozen peas (about 2 cups)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Melt butter over medium heat in a small skillet or sauce pan.
- Add flour and whisk for about 30 seconds to form a roux.
- Add milk a little at a time to form the sauce, whisking constantly. You want the sauce to have the consistency of a thin gravy or béchamel sauce. Heat gently and avoid bringing the sauce to a boil.
- Stir in the peas and continue gently stirring until peas are heated through. About 7-8 minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, add more milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Try sautéing finely chopped onion in the butter until translucent before adding the flour to add more flavor to the peas.
- Add roasted or boiled red potatoes to make creamed peas with potatoes
Nutrition Information
Questions about Creamed Peas
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
I don’t recommend freezing them, as the sauce may separate and lose its creamy consistency when thawed.
Read Next: 35+ BBQ Side Dish Ideas
More Recipes with Peas
More Vegetable Side Dish Recipes
Looking for a healthy and delicious side for your next meal? Check out these other vegetable side dishes:
Roasted Vegetable Medley
Candied Carrots
Corn on the Cob
Air Fry Brussels Sprouts
Sweet Sauteed Asparagus
Parmesan Squash Casserole
Cheesy Cauliflower Side Dish
Love these with mushrooms