Creamed Peas Recipe
This classic Creamed Peas recipe features tender peas in a rich, creamy sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, finished with a touch of heavy cream for extra indulgence. It’s a comforting, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal.
- Author: Clara
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Base Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 cups whole milk (or half and half)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
Peas and Finishing
- 4 cups frozen peas
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
- Melt Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat to form the base of the cream sauce.
- Add Flour and Garlic Powder: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and optional garlic powder into the melted butter until smooth and fully combined, creating a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk (or half and half), whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a smooth mixture.
- Cook Sauce until Thickened: Continue to cook the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency, about 6 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and white or black pepper to taste.
- Cook Peas: Add the frozen peas to the thickened sauce and cook, stirring often, until they are heated through, approximately 4 minutes.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Stir in the heavy cream if using, to enrich the sauce further, and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with extra pepper, a small pat of butter, or fresh herbs like chopped chives or dill. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Using fresh peas can enhance the flavor but requires adjusting cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Garlic powder is optional; omit it for a simpler flavor or add fresh garlic for more intensity.
- Substitute milk with half and half for a richer sauce or use lactose-free milk for dietary needs.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Heavy cream is optional but recommended for extra creaminess.
- Can be garnished with fresh herbs like chives or dill to brighten the dish.
Keywords: Creamed Peas, creamy side dish, peas recipe, comfort food, American side dish, creamy vegetable