There’s something heartwarming about the first cool breeze that hints at autumn, and it instantly makes me crave the comfort of home-cooked meals. That’s when I find myself reaching for a bowl of Creamed Peas and Potatoes—a dish that reinvents the simple potato into a creamy, dreamy delight. The blend of tender russet potatoes and sweet peas, all enveloped in velvety heavy cream, creates a luxurious side that warms not only the body but also the soul.
Picture this: fragrant sautéed onions mingling with rich butter as they sizzle in the pan, then flourished with a hint of dill that adds just the right amount of herbaceous flair. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this recipe serves as an invitation to slow down and savor the moment. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect with grilled meats or even as a stand-alone comfort food during a weeknight rush. Let’s dive into this nostalgic dish that promises to transport you back to kitchens of yesteryear, where every bite is a hug from the inside!
Why Love CREAMED PEAS AND POTATOES?
Comforting Delight: This dish is the epitome of cozy home cooking, perfect for chilly evenings.
Simple Ingredients: Crafted from everyday pantry staples, making it accessible and inviting.
Versatile Flavor: The creamy base is adaptable—swap out peas for your favorite veggies like fresh green beans!
Crowd Favorite: This recipe is a hit at family gatherings, pleasing both kids and adults alike.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it fits seamlessly into busy weeknights yet feels indulgent.
Enduring Legacy: Each bite takes you back to cherished moments, embodying what it means to enjoy comfort food.
CREAMED PEAS AND POTATOES Ingredients
For the Creamy Mixture
- Russet Potatoes – Main component providing structure and creaminess; ensure they’re diced into ½-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious creaminess to the dish; avoid low-fat alternatives for best results.
- Frozen Peas – Quick and convenient; they give a pop of sweetness and color, and organic peas are recommended if available.
- Unsalted Butter – Used for sautéing onions, adding richness to the cream mix; can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Dried Dill – Provides a fresh, zesty note complementing the creaminess; fresh dill can also be used if available.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, balancing the flavors of this delicious creamed peas and potatoes dish.
For the Flavor Base
- Onion – Finely diced to enrich flavor through sautéing; yellow onions work best for sweetness.
How to Make CREAMED PEAS AND POTATOES
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Dice russet potatoes into approximately ½-inch cubes. This helps them cook evenly and allows the cream to coat them beautifully.
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Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for 12-15 minutes until they are fork-tender. You want them soft enough to melt in your mouth.
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Add frozen peas to the boiling potatoes and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. This gives the peas a vibrant green color and a sweet pop.
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Drain the potatoes and peas, then set them aside. Make sure to shake off any excess water to keep the dish creamy!
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Sauté finely diced onions in a saucepan with melted unsalted butter over medium heat until they become translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.
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Pour heavy cream into the saucepan with the sautéed onions. Bring to a gentle boil, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine the boiled potatoes and peas with the creamy mixture. Season with dried dill, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly before serving.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh dill just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Creamed Peas and Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can dice the russet potatoes and store them in water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to keep them from browning. Similarly, you can sauté the onions, allow them to cool, and then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply boil the potatoes and peas, combine them with the cream mixture, and heat through—ensuring that the dish tastes just as delicious as when freshly made. This method not only streamlines your cooking process but also enhances the flavors as they meld together, resulting in a cozy comfort food classic that warms the heart!
How to Store and Freeze CREAMED PEAS AND POTATOES
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and creaminess. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly or use freezer-safe bags.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding milk or cream to restore creaminess as needed.
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Avoid Saving Too Long: While delicious, creamed peas and potatoes are best enjoyed fresh due to the cream element, which can change in texture if frozen for too long.
CREAMED PEAS AND POTATOES Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Creamed Peas and Potatoes by exploring these delightful twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Fresh Peas: Substitute frozen peas for fresh peas for a sweeter, more vibrant flavor and a delightful crunch.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, gooey twist that adds depth to the creamy base.
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Herb Infusion: Instead of dill, try using fresh parsley or thyme to give the dish a fresh, aromatic flavor lift.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to introduce a warm kick to the creamy goodness.
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Vegetable Medley: Stir in diced carrots or chopped green beans for a colorful, nutritious upgrade that enhances both flavor and texture.
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Creamy Dream: Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free milk alternative for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
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Savory Addition: Incorporate cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory element that elevates the comforting nature of the dish.
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Nutty Flavor: For an unexpected twist, add some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty richness.
Expert Tips for CREAMED PEAS AND POTATOES
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Choose Quality Potatoes: Use fresh, firm russet potatoes for optimal texture and flavor; avoid potatoes that are wrinkled or sprouted.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Don’t overcook the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but not mushy to maintain the dish’s structure and enjoyment.
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Creamy Consistency: If your cream thickens too much while cooking, add a little milk or water to loosen it up before combining with the vegetables.
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Season Generously: Taste as you go! Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper to really enhance the creamy goodness in your creamed peas and potatoes.
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Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add variety; mixing in fresh green beans or corn can give your dish a new twist while keeping that comforting essence.
What to Serve with CREAMED PEAS AND POTATOES?
Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that balance flavors and textures seamlessly.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken enhances the creamy dish while adding a hearty protein. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots offer a beautiful color contrast and complement the richness of the cream. Their slight crunch balances the dish well.
- Buttery Cornbread: Soft, warm cornbread with its ‘melt-in-your-mouth’ texture pairs beautifully with the creamy consistency of the peas and potatoes, creating a comforting combo.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing cuts through the heaviness, providing a refreshing bite to the meal.
- Baked Ham: Tender, sweet-and-savory baked ham makes for a delicious main course that harmonizes with the richness of the creamed peas and potatoes.
- Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay brings a crisp, fruity note, enhancing your overall dining experience and balancing the creamy flavors.
- Chocolate Cake: End on a sweet note with a slice of rich chocolate cake, offering a lovely contrast to the savory elements of the meal.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are not only a delightful side but also great for soaking up any leftover creamy goodness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and earthy notes, providing a nutritious element to your comforting dish.
Creamed Peas and Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best russet potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for firm, smooth-skinned russet potatoes without any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating they’re fresh. Avoid potatoes with sprouts or wrinkled skin, as these can affect both flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Creamed Peas and Potatoes?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the creaminess intact, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to regain that delightful texture.
Can I freeze Creamed Peas and Potatoes, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. Creamed peas and potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
What should I do if my cream mixture thickens too quickly?
I’ve been there! If your cream thickens too quickly while cooking, don’t panic. Just add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up before combining with the potatoes and peas. This will help get back to that silky consistency we’re after.
Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is a wonderful treat for many, keep in mind its creaminess may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. However, you can always substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk, to make it more inclusive for guests!
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for Creamed Peas and Potatoes?
Very much so! If you have fresh peas available, they will add great taste and texture to your dish. Just blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding to the dish to ensure they’re tender and vibrant. Enjoy the freshness!
Creamed Peas and Potatoes: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dice russet potatoes into approximately ½-inch cubes.
- Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for 12-15 minutes until they are fork-tender.
- Add frozen peas to the boiling potatoes and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and peas, then set them aside.
- Sauté finely diced onions in a saucepan with melted unsalted butter over medium heat until they become translucent.
- Pour heavy cream into the saucepan with the sautéed onions, bring to a gentle boil, and allow it to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine the boiled potatoes and peas with the creamy mixture. Season with dried dill, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly before serving.