There’s something so satisfying about a bowl of creamy peas and potatoes—it’s the ultimate comfort food, full of flavor and warmth. This dish has become a regular in my kitchen, and I’m convinced it’s one of those meals you could eat every day without ever getting tired of it. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, it’s simple to prepare and always a hit at the table.
The combination of tender potatoes, sweet peas, and rich creamy sauce is just irresistible. And with a few simple ingredients like butter, flour, milk, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish comes together quickly and easily. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious comfort food!
Why I Love Creamy Peas and Potatoes
What I adore most about this dish is how comforting it is. The creamy sauce perfectly coats the potatoes and peas, making each bite a warm, satisfying experience. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can adjust the flavor to suit your mood, whether you’re in the mood for something classic and simple or craving a bit more depth with extra spices or cheese.
It’s a great side dish to serve alongside meats like roasted chicken, pork, or even a hearty steak, but honestly, I could eat it as a main course too. It’s like a warm hug for the soul, and that’s why I could enjoy it on a daily basis!
Ingredients
1.5 pounds of peeled and diced potatoes
1 cup of peas (fresh or frozen)
3 tablespoons of butter
3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
1 cup of milk (whole or 2% for richness)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
Boil the Potatoes: Begin by bringing a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 15 minutes or until they are very soft when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk until the mixture forms a smooth paste. Cook for an additional minute or two to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Make the Sauce: Gradually pour the milk into the roux (the butter and flour mixture) while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Keep stirring as the sauce thickens over the next 5 minutes. It should reach a creamy, smooth consistency.
Combine Potatoes and Sauce: Once the potatoes are drained, add them back to the saucepan. Pour the cream sauce over the potatoes and gently toss them to coat. Be careful not to mash them too much unless you prefer a mashed-potato-like consistency.
Add the Peas: If using frozen peas, stir them into the potatoes and cream sauce, and cook on low heat for about 3-4 minutes until the peas are fully cooked through. If using fresh peas, steam them until they are just soft, then stir them into the potatoes to keep their vibrant color and texture.
Season and Serve: Season the creamy peas and potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations
Add Some Heat: For an extra kick, whisk in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of mustard into the cream sauce. This will give the dish a subtle heat that’s perfect for those who like a little spice.
Richer Version: For a more indulgent version, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream, which will make the sauce even richer and creamier.
Lighter Version: If you want to lighten up the dish, swap out the butter for a butter alternative and use low-fat milk in place of whole milk. It’s a great way to enjoy the dish without compromising too much on flavor.
Cheese Lovers’ Twist: Toss in some grated cheddar or parmesan cheese into the sauce before adding the peas and potatoes. This adds a cheesy, savory element that makes the dish even more indulgent.
Roasted Potatoes: If you have a little more time, consider roasting the potatoes instead of boiling them. Roasting them will give them a slightly crispier texture and a deeper flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a Side: This creamy peas and potatoes dish is the perfect side for any meal. It pairs wonderfully with roast chicken, steak, pork chops, or even a veggie stir-fry.
Comforting Main Course: If you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, enjoy this dish on its own. It’s filling enough to stand alone, especially with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Perfect for Potlucks or Family Dinners: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it a great choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or dinner parties. It’s easy to make in large quantities and will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Time and Servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Creamy peas and potatoes is the kind of dish that’s simple yet comforting, and it’s one of those recipes that always feels like home. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a standalone meal, it’s sure to be a favorite at your table. So grab your potatoes, heat up that butter, and get ready to enjoy this cozy, delicious dish!