Au Gratin Creamed Peas is a delicious side dish that’s both creamy and cheesy! It features sweet peas mixed with a rich cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden.
The best part? It’s a fun way to make veggies exciting! I like to serve it with grilled chicken for a tasty meal. Plus, if someone says they don’t like peas, they might just change their mind! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Peas: Fresh peas are the sweetest and most vibrant, but frozen peas work just as well. If you can’t find any, canned peas can also be a quick alternative — just be sure to drain and rinse them to reduce sodium.
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect for this recipe; it allows you to control the salt. If you’re looking to make it dairy-free, consider using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can use 2% milk. If you want extra creaminess, go for heavy cream instead. Almond milk can be a non-dairy substitute, but it may change the flavor slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a wonderful tang, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack adds a kick, while mozzarella offers a gooey texture. Vegan cheese works for a non-dairy alternative.
How Do You Make a Roux Smoothly?
Making a roux is a key step for the creamy texture in this dish. It’s all about getting it right! Here’s how you can nail it:
- Start with melted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour all at once.
- Whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This cooks the flour and removes that raw taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Patience is key here! A smooth roux sets the stage for a creamy sauce.
How to Make Au Gratin Creamed Peas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or cream for a richer dish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake. You’ll have a warm and comforting dish ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready when your dish is assembled!
2. Prepare the Peas:
If you’re using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they’re tender, then drain. If you have frozen peas, simply thaw them out and let any excess water drain away.
3. Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly—this helps create a paste known as roux.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the milk (or cream) while continuing to stir. Keep cooking this mixture for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens and turns smooth. Don’t hesitate to keep stirring for that perfect consistency!
5. Season the Sauce:
Add in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if you want). Give it a good mix to evenly season your sauce.
6. Incorporate the Cheese:
Now, stir half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce until it melts and blends smoothly.
7. Combine with Peas:
Take the saucepan off the heat, and gently fold in the green peas, making sure they are well coated in the cheesy sauce.
8. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the creamy pea mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Add the Remaining Cheese:
Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese on top of the peas.
10. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This will give you that delightful crispy topping!
11. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely finish before serving.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy Au Gratin Creamed Peas as a comforting side dish that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Peas for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are a convenient option. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before adding them to the creamy sauce.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the whole milk with almond milk or another non-dairy milk, and use a vegan butter alternative. For cheese, look for a dairy-free cheese option that melts well.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time! Just prepare the creamed peas and transfer them to the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven—adjust the baking time as needed since it will start colder.
What Should I Serve with Au Gratin Creamed Peas?
This dish pairs nicely with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a hearty complement to a salad. It’s a great side for special occasions or weeknight dinners alike!
