There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the simple combination of creamed potatoes and peas. This dish, with its roots in the heartland of America, captures the essence of wholesome, comforting Midwestern cooking. Whether it’s served alongside a hearty roast or as a stand-alone dish, creamed potatoes and peas have a way of making any meal feel a little bit more like home.
Perfect for the spring and summer months when fresh peas are at their best, this dish also works beautifully with frozen peas, making it a versatile side that can be enjoyed year-round. The creamy potatoes blend seamlessly with the sweet, tender peas, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. It’s a true comfort food—simple, unpretentious, and full of flavor.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this comforting classic, perfect for serving 4-6 people:
- 1.5 pounds of potatoes: Peeled and cubed. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work particularly well.
- 1 cup of fresh or frozen peas: Fresh peas add a wonderful pop of color and sweetness, but frozen works just as well.
- 3 tablespoons of butter: For that rich, buttery flavor that makes the cream sauce irresistible.
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce and give it that creamy consistency.
- 1 cup of milk: Whole or 2% milk works best for richness, but you can adjust based on your preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt: Or to taste, to bring out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper: Or to taste, for a hint of spice.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish, adding a fresh, bright finish to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Creamed Potatoes and Peas
Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to whip up this delightful, comforting dish:
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Boil the potatoes: Start by placing your peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with salted water and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they’re tender, which should take about 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork slides easily into the cubes.
- Drain and set aside: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, be careful not to overcook them.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. As soon as it’s fully melted and begins to bubble, you’re ready for the next step.
- Create the roux: Add the 3 tablespoons of flour to the melted butter, whisking continuously. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. You should end up with a smooth, golden paste known as a roux.
- Add the milk: Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, which should take about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Combine the Potatoes and Peas
- Fold in the potatoes: Add the drained potatoes back into the pot. Pour the cream sauce over them and gently fold everything together, being careful not to mash the potatoes unless you prefer a smoother texture.
- Cook the peas: If you’re using frozen peas, add them to the pot now and cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes until they’re heated through. If you’re using fresh peas, steam them separately until just tender, then stir them into the potatoes. This helps maintain their bright color and slightly crunchy texture.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning until it’s just right. The dish should be creamy and well-balanced, with the sweetness of the peas complementing the richness of the potatoes.
- Garnish and serve: For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top before serving. It adds a lovely pop of color and a subtle herbal note.
Variations & Tips: Make It Your Own
While the classic recipe is a favorite for a reason, there’s always room for a little creativity. Here are some variations and tips to try:
Spice It Up
- Add a little kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of mustard into the cream sauce for a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the peas.
Make It Extra Creamy
- Indulgent option: For a richer dish, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. The result is a decadently creamy sauce that feels luxurious on the palate.
- Lighter version: If you’re watching your calories, you can use low-fat milk or even a butter substitute. The dish will still be delicious, just a bit lighter.
Herb It Up
- Add fresh herbs: Fresh mint pairs beautifully with peas, so try adding a few chopped mint leaves for a refreshing twist. You could also experiment with dill or thyme for different flavor profiles.
Cheesy Goodness
- Cheese lovers: Stir in some grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese into the sauce before combining it with the potatoes and peas. The cheese melts into the sauce, adding a rich, savory note that’s hard to resist.
Roast the Potatoes
- Roasted variation: If you have a little more time, consider roasting the potatoes instead of boiling them. Toss the cubes in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. The roasted potatoes add a depth of flavor and a firmer texture that stands up well to the creamy sauce.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Your Dish
Creamed potatoes and peas are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas:
- Roast Chicken or Pork Chops: The creaminess of the potatoes and peas complements the savory, juicy flavors of roast chicken or pork chops perfectly.
- Steak: A well-seasoned steak pairs beautifully with this dish, offering a balance of creamy and hearty flavors.
- Fish: For a lighter meal, serve with grilled or baked fish. The subtle flavors of the fish will allow the richness of the potatoes and peas to shine.
- Vegetarian Delight: Pair with a veggie burger or a slice of nut loaf for a satisfying vegetarian meal. Add a crisp green salad or some roasted root vegetables to complete the plate.
Final Thoughts
Creamed Potatoes and Peas is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. With its creamy texture and the sweetness of the peas, it’s a side dish that feels both familiar and special, perfect for everything from a simple family dinner to a festive gathering.
Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try out some of the variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the comforting, delicious taste of home with every bite. Happy cooking!
Creamed Potatoes and Peas
A comforting dish that brings together the creamy richness of potatoes and the sweet, tender flavor of peas. Perfect as a side for any main course, or even enjoyed on its own, this recipe is a true celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds potatoes Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk whole or 2% preferred
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with salted water.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Test by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily.
- Drain the potatoes and set aside.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble.
- Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking constantly to create a smooth paste (roux). Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 5 minutes. The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
- Combine Potatoes and Peas
- Add the drained potatoes back to the pot and pour the cream sauce over them. Gently fold the mixture together.
- Add the peas: If using frozen peas, add them now and cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes until heated through. If using fresh peas, steam them separately until tender, then stir them into the mixture.
- Season and Serve
- Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- For a final touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Make It Your Own
- Add a pinch of cayenne or mustard to the cream sauce for a hint of heat.
- Substitute half the milk with heavy cream for a richer dish, or use low-fat milk for a lighter option.
- Fresh mint, dill, or thyme can be added to enhance the flavor.
- Stir in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for a cheesy version.
Nutrition
Calories: 250kcal
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