Old Fashioned Creamed Peas and Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Old Fashioned Creamed Peas and Potatoes is a classic comfort food dish that brings together tender baby potatoes and sweet green peas in a rich, creamy white sauce. Often served as a side dish in traditional American home-cooked meals, this hearty recipe is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any time you want something warm and satisfying.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

baby potatoes
fresh or frozen green peas
butter
all-purpose flour
whole milk
salt
black pepper
optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

directions

Wash and scrub the baby potatoes, then cut them into halves or quarters depending on size.

Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, add a pinch of salt, and boil until fork-tender (about 10-12 minutes).

In the last 3 minutes of boiling, add the green peas to the pot. Drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly, bringing the mixture to a simmer until thickened.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the cooked potatoes and peas to the sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly.

Simmer for 2-3 more minutes until everything is heated through.

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add diced cooked ham or bacon for a meaty version.

Use cream or half-and-half for a richer sauce.

Incorporate sautéed onions or garlic into the roux for extra flavor.

Add fresh herbs like dill or thyme for an aromatic touch.

Use red or Yukon Gold potatoes for variation in texture and color.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use canned peas?

Yes, but add them at the end since they’re already cooked and can become mushy.

What type of potatoes work best?

Baby red or Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape and have a creamy texture.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, but choose a thicker, unsweetened variety for best results.

Why is my sauce too thick or too thin?

Adjust with more milk to thin or let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat slowly and add milk if it thickens too much.

How do I keep the potatoes from overcooking?

Check for doneness with a fork; they should be just tender, not falling apart.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a holiday spread.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, a bit of shredded cheddar or Parmesan can be stirred into the sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I use frozen peas?

Absolutely, just add them in the last few minutes of boiling the potatoes.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Creamed Peas and Potatoes is a timeless dish that brings cozy, down-home flavor to your table. With its simple ingredients and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a favorite comfort side for any meal.

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