There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy dish that’s infused with the sweet and tender flavor of peas. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic favorite or a new twist to add some excitement to your meal routine, creamed peas are a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a wide range of delicious recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering ways to prepare creamy creamed peas, from classic combinations with butter and fresh herbs to bold and adventurous takes featuring ingredients like crispy bacon, mushrooms, and smoky paprika.
From comforting side dishes to satisfying main courses, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the simple pleasure of a warm, creamy bowl of peas. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamed peas and explore the many ways you can enjoy this beloved ingredient.
Classic Creamed Peas with Butter and Fresh Herbs
This comforting side dish is a staple of many cuisines, and for good reason – the combination of tender peas, rich butter, and fresh herbs is a match made in heaven. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or dill), chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the peas and cook until they’re tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using fresh herbs, stir them in during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Creamed Peas
Elevate your vegetable side dish game with this easy and flavorful recipe for Garlic Parmesan Creamed Peas. This creamy, cheesy delight is perfect for accompanying your favorite pasta dishes, main courses, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the peas and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thawed and tender.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamed Peas with Crispy Bacon Bits
This classic comfort food recipe combines sweet and tender peas with crispy bacon bits, creating a delightful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the peas to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon bits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooker Creamed Peas with Thyme
Transform frozen peas into a rich and creamy side dish with this easy recipe. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a comforting accompaniment to your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the frozen peas in a slow-cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, heavy cream, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the cream mixture over the peas in the slow-cooker.
4. Add the fresh thyme leaves on top of the peas.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamed Peas and Pearl Onions
This classic side dish is a simple yet elegant accompaniment to many meals. The sweetness of the peas pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the pearl onions, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/2 cup pearl onions, peeled and halved
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the peas according to package instructions or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pearl onions and cook until they’re lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked peas to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Coconut Milk Creamed Peas
Elevate your pea game with this creamy and delicious vegan recipe, perfect for a quick and easy side dish or addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/2 cup coconut milk (full-fat or low-fat)
– 2 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the vegan butter or margarine and let it melt, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and stir until smooth.
4. Add the peas to the saucepan and stir gently.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the peas are tender but still bright green.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Peas with Mushrooms and White Wine
Elevate your sides game with this rich and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. This creamy, savory sauce showcases the sweetness of peas and mushrooms in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute more.
3. Add peas, white wine, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until peas are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Creamed Peas
A flavorful twist on classic creamed peas, this recipe adds a kick of heat and spice with cajun seasoning. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add peas, cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cream has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Peas and Carrots with Dill
This classic side dish is a simple yet flavorful accompaniment to many meals. Fresh dill adds a bright and herbaceous note that complements the sweetness of the peas and carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced carrots and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the peas and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until both vegetables are tender.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh dill.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Creamed Peas with Cheddar
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the sweetness of peas with the boldness of cheddar. This creamy delight is perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil; add the peas and cook for 3-5 minutes or until tender.
2. Drain the peas and set them aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Add the cooked peas and remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Peas and Potatoes in a Creamy Sauce
This classic comfort food recipe combines the sweetness of peas and potatoes with the richness of a creamy sauce, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the peas and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Creamed Peas
Brighten up your meal with this simple yet flavorful side dish. Lemon and garlic add a tangy and aromatic twist to traditional creamed peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add peas and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Drain peas and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in cooked peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Peas with Crispy Fried Shallots
Add a touch of elegance to your side dishes with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines tender creamed peas with crispy fried shallots. This delicious accompaniment is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the peas according to package instructions or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a small bowl, separate the shallot slices into individual rings. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess. Fry in hot oil until crispy and golden, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. Combine cooked peas and cream sauce. Top with crispy fried shallots. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Creamed Peas
Add a smoky twist to classic creamed peas with this simple recipe that combines the sweetness of peas with the depth of smoked paprika. This side dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a unique addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peas and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked peas to the saucepan and stir until coated with the creamy mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Peas with Toasted Almonds
A creamy and nutty side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the peas and cook until they’re tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cream has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Meanwhile, toast the almonds by spreading them on a baking sheet and baking for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned.
8. Serve the creamed peas hot, topped with toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Creamed Peas with Tarragon
This classic French-inspired side dish is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a standalone vegetable course. The subtle sweetness of the peas pairs beautifully with the anise-like flavor of tarragon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the peas, tarragon, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamed Peas and Ham in a Velvety Sauce
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe combines the sweetness of peas with the savory flavor of ham in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the peas and ham until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamed Peas with Truffle Oil and Chives
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet sophisticated side dish, featuring the rich flavors of truffle oil and fresh chives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the peas according to package instructions until tender.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, salt, and pepper, stirring until smooth.
3. Add the cooked peas to the cream mixture and stir to combine.
4. Stir in the truffle oil and chopped chives.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy, comforting goodness of creamed peas! This collection of 18 mouthwatering recipes offers a variety of twists on this classic dish. From classic combinations with butter and fresh herbs to bold flavors like garlic parmesan, spicy Cajun, and smoky paprika, there’s something for every taste. Discover how to elevate simple creamed peas with crispy bacon bits, mushrooms, white wine, and more. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a main course, these creamy creamed peas recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
