Creamed Potatoes and Peas

This creamy, comforting dish combines tender red potatoes, sweet peas, and a rich, velvety cream sauce, topped with crispy bacon and savory onions. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners or holiday feasts, this recipe is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of creamy textures and crispy toppings makes it an irresistible addition to any meal!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs red potatoes, boiled
• ¼ cup butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ cups milk
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 10 oz frozen peas
• ½ cup onion, diced
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) .
2. Lightly grease a baking pan or casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare Potatoes and Peas

1. Boil the red potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Cut the boiled potatoes in half and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking pan.
3. Sprinkle the frozen peas evenly over the potatoes. No need to thaw the peas—they’ll cook in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper, whisking continuously to form a smooth paste (this is called a roux). Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually pour in the milk and evaporated milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the potatoes and peas, ensuring they are well-coated.
2. Sprinkle the diced onion evenly over the top for added flavor.
3. Finish by sprinkling the cooked and crumbled bacon over the dish for a crispy, salty topping.
4. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the sauce is bubbly and the bacon is slightly crispy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve warm as a side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a holiday spread. Enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness of this dish!

Tips for Success

• Potato Prep: For even cooking, cut larger potatoes into quarters instead of halves to ensure they’re bite-sized.
• Onion Options: Use yellow, white, or red onions depending on your preference. For a milder flavor, sauté the onions briefly before sprinkling them on top.
• Bacon Substitutes: If you’re looking to reduce calories, use turkey bacon or omit the bacon entirely for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a stress-free meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamed Potatoes and Peas dish is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy sauce perfectly coats the tender potatoes and sweet peas, while the crispy bacon and savory onions add texture and depth of flavor. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with almost any main course, yet it’s hearty enough to stand alone as a satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Dive into this creamy, savory delight and savor every bite!