If you are on the lookout for a comforting, velvety side that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamed Potatoes and Peas Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender potatoes and vibrant green peas enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce, this dish offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe brings a touch of homemade goodness that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, familiar ingredients come together in this recipe to create a dish that’s so much more than the sum of its parts. Each component plays an essential role in flavor, creaminess, or visual appeal, making this a must-have recipe in your cooking repertoire.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: The hearty base that will soak up all the creamy goodness.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of bright green color and a sweet freshness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret to that rich, velvety texture everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the cream slightly for a balanced sauce consistency.
- 2 tbsp butter: Gives the sauce a silky finish and buttery flavor.
- 1 tbsp flour: Works as a thickening agent for the cream sauce.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and a hint of savory warmth.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Enhances the flavor profile with subtle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out and balancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a touch of color to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamed Potatoes and Peas Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and diced potatoes and cook them just until tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Properly cooked potatoes are key—they should be soft enough to absorb the creamy sauce but still hold their shape. Once done, drain and set aside to await their creamy transformation.
Step 2: Cook the Peas
In the same pot you used for the potatoes, add the frozen peas and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they’re just heated through. This quick step preserves the bright green color and fresh flavor of the peas. Drain and combine them with the potatoes, so these two main ingredients are ready for their delicious cloak of cream.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Next, melt your butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring consistently to create a smooth roux—the base of any great cream sauce. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking without pause until the sauce thickens beautifully, which should take about 5 minutes. This silky sauce is the magic that brings the entire dish to life.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Now comes the fun part: gently folding your tender potatoes and fresh peas into the thickened cream sauce. Stir carefully so every piece is luxuriously coated without breaking apart. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to suit your taste, creating a perfectly balanced, creamy side dish that’s ready to serve.
How to Serve Creamed Potatoes and Peas Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks. A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley over your creamed potatoes and peas adds a vibrant burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the dish perfectly. You can also consider freshly cracked black pepper or a light dusting of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth and color contrast.
Side Dishes
This Creamed Potatoes and Peas Recipe pairs exceptionally well with roasted chicken, pan-seared pork chops, or even grilled fish—any protein that benefits from a creamy, comforting companion. For a vegetarian meal, it complements hearty mushroom dishes or a savory lentil loaf beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Try plating your creamed potatoes and peas in small, elegant ramekins topped with a crisp herb sprig or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. Alternatively, serve it as a bed for a perfectly cooked steak or a grilled portobello mushroom to turn this humble side into a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of this Creamed Potatoes and Peas Recipe, no worries! Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld even more after a day, making it a tasty second-day treat for your lunches or dinners.
Freezing
Freezing creamed potatoes can be tricky because of the cream, but it’s doable with care. Store leftovers in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. To maintain texture, it’s best to consume frozen portions within 1 to 2 months for optimal freshness and flavor.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You might want to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as it warms up. Avoid microwaving on high power to prevent curdling and to keep that creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for this Creamed Potatoes and Peas Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh peas work wonderfully and offer a sweeter flavor and tender texture. Just blanch them briefly before adding to keep their vibrant color and balance in the dish.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream and butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free version, and use olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. The sauce will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy.
How do I prevent the potatoes from breaking apart when mixing into the cream sauce?
Use firm, waxy potatoes and make sure to cook them just until tender. When combining, stir gently to coat the potatoes without mashing or breaking them up.
Can I add other vegetables to the Creamed Potatoes and Peas Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add carrots, corn, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure all vegetables are tender.
What’s the best way to season this dish if I want it spicier?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. Freshly ground black pepper can also add a mild kick without overpowering the creamy flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simplicity and comfort of a well-made Creamed Potatoes and Peas Recipe. It’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh, balancing creaminess and brightness in every bite. Trust me, once you try making it, you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again. So go ahead, dive into this creamy, dreamy delight and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen too.
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Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Creamed Potatoes and Peas recipe combines tender potatoes and sweet peas in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect as a hearty side dish, it features a smooth roux-based cream sauce seasoned with garlic and onion powder, making it an easy yet flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
Dairy and Fats
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
Seasonings and Thickener
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
- Cook Peas: Using the same pot, add the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Drain and combine with the cooked potatoes.
- Make Cream Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk constantly until the sauce thickens, approximately 5 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked potatoes and peas to the cream sauce. Gently stir to evenly coat the vegetables with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Serve: Garnish the creamed potatoes and peas with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, mash some of the potatoes before mixing with the cream sauce.
- You can substitute the heavy cream with an equal amount of half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Use fresh peas instead of frozen if available, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats or grilled chicken.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
