Au Gratin Creamed Peas is a comforting dish that mixes tender peas with a creamy sauce, all topped with golden cheese. It’s a delightful way to enjoy your veggies!
Who knew peas could be this cozy? I love serving this dish at dinner; it always gets smiles. Plus, the cheesy top is a fun way to make even the pickiest eaters happy! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Peas: Fresh peas are ideal for this dish as they have a great flavor and texture. If fresh peas aren’t available, frozen peas work perfectly after thawing. Just make sure to drain excess water!
Butter: Regular unsalted butter is what I use for the base of the sauce. You can replace it with olive oil or dairy-free margarine if needed. Both options will still give you a nice flavor.
Milk and Cream: I love using whole milk and heavy cream for that ultra-creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and leave out the cream, although the final dish will be less rich.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick to the dish. If you’re looking for a milder taste, try using medium cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack.
Parmesan Cheese: Parms adds a delightful savory note on top. For a dairy-free option, you can use nutritional yeast to mimic that cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make the Perfect Roux?
The roux is key for the creamy texture in this dish. It’s really simple! Start with equal parts butter and flour. Here’s my go-to method:
- First, melt the butter in your saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes. You want it to lightly brown without burning.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Continuous stirring helps prevent lumps.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently (about 4-5 minutes).
Keep an eye on the heat! If it’s too high, the roux can burn. A medium heat works best for a smooth sauce.
How to Make Au Gratin Creamed Peas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Creamed Peas:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
For the Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s super quick and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using fresh peas, you’ll want to blanch them first. Simply boil water in a pot, add the peas, and let them cook for 2-3 minutes. Once done, drain them well. If you’re using frozen peas, just thaw them and make sure to drain any excess water.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This helps thicken your sauce. Be sure to keep stirring so it doesn’t burn!
3. Add Milk and Cream:
Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble gently, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture!
4. Season and Cheese It Up:
Add the salt, black pepper, and optional garlic and onion powders. Stir well. Then, mix in the grated cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it’s completely melted and the sauce is nice and smooth.
5. Combine with Peas:
Now it’s time to gently fold in the blanched or thawed peas. Make sure they’re evenly coated with the cheesy sauce!
6. Bake It:
Transfer the creamy peas mixture into a buttered baking dish. Top it with extra grated cheddar and the Parmesan cheese. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Just before you serve, garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy dish of Au Gratin Creamed Peas!
Can I Use Frozen Peas for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen peas are a great option! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and drain any excess water before adding them to the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If they seem dry, add a splash of milk or cream to moisten them up!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamed peas mixture in advance, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I Substitute the Cheeses?
Yes! If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute sharp cheddar with mild cheddar or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can mimic the cheesy flavor!
