If you’re craving a side dish that’s comforting, luscious, and packed with flavor, you’re going to love this Creamy Garlic Butter Peas Recipe. It’s unbelievably simple yet satisfying—a dreamy combination of tender peas bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that feels just like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe turns humble peas into the star of the show with minimal fuss and maximum charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients that each play a vital role. The butter provides that silky richness, flour helps thicken the sauce just right, and half-and-half adds creaminess without overpowering the delicate garlicky flavor. Frozen peas keep things convenient and perfectly tender, while garlic powder infuses the whole dish with its irresistible aroma.
- Butter: Use unsalted for best control over seasoning and to give the dish a velvety, buttery base.
- Flour: Acts as a natural thickener to transform the sauce into a luscious coating.
- Half-and-half: Provides creaminess and lightness, making the texture smooth but not heavy.
- Garlic powder: Adds mellow garlic flavor without the bite of fresh garlic, blending perfectly into the sauce.
- Frozen peas: Keep them frozen until cooking to ensure they stay vibrant green and tender.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the peas and balance the richness of the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Peas Recipe
Step 1: Start Your Roux
Begin by melting the butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Once it’s melted and bubbling gently, sprinkle in the flour and cook it for about a minute. This step cooks off the raw flour taste and lays the foundation for a smooth, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the peas.
Step 2: Whisk in the Cream and Garlic
Slowly whisk in the half-and-half and garlic powder to the butter and flour mixture. Whisking continuously helps prevent lumps and ensures a silky sauce. The garlic powder adds that delicate, comforting flavor that infuses every bite.
Step 3: Add the Peas
Stir in the frozen peas straight from the bag. As the mixture heats, the peas will thaw and release their sweetness. Once you see the sauce begin to bubble, lower the heat so it simmers gently—too much heat will break the sauce’s creamy texture.
Step 4: Simmer Until Perfectly Thickened
Let the peas simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer helps the sauce thicken and intensifies the flavors as the peas cook to tender perfection. The sauce will thicken a bit more as it cools, so keep that in mind when deciding when to stop.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Finish off by seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy here—these seasonings bring everything together and make the flavors pop. Taste and adjust as needed to match your perfect balance.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Peas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a refreshing pop of color and an herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the richness of this creamy garlic butter peas recipe. For a little extra indulgence, a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can also elevate it to new heights.
Side Dishes
This creamy dish shines next to roasted chicken, grilled steak, or tender pork chops. It pairs wonderfully with simple roasted potatoes or buttery mashed potatoes, balancing a hearty meal with a touch of green goodness that’s anything but boring.
Creative Ways to Present
Take things up a notch by serving the peas in individual ramekins for a charming touch at dinner parties. You can also spoon this Creamy Garlic Butter Peas Recipe over toasted crostini as a savory appetizer, or fold them into a warm risotto for a luxurious twist that will impress anyone at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The peas will keep well for up to 3 days and maintain their creamy texture, making them an easy grab-and-go side for your next meal.
Freezing
While you can freeze this creamy garlic butter peas mixture, be aware that the cream sauce may slightly separate upon thawing. To preserve the flavor and texture best, freeze in a sealed container and consume within one month for optimal freshness.
Reheating
Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce has thickened too much, simply add a splash of half-and-half or milk to loosen it up and restore that silky smoothness you love.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas will lend a brighter, slightly sweeter flavor, but since they cook quickly, add them toward the end of the simmering time to avoid overcooking and losing their vibrant color.
Is garlic powder necessary, or can I use fresh garlic?
You can certainly use fresh garlic. Just mince 1-2 cloves and sauté them gently in the butter before adding the flour. It will give a more pungent garlic flavor, so adjust the quantity to your taste.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, swap out the butter for olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of half-and-half. The texture will be slightly different, but it’s still delicious and creamy.
How thick should the sauce be?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and cling to the peas, but not so thick it becomes gloopy. It will thicken a bit more after removing from the heat, so take it off the stove when it’s just slightly looser than you want.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some diced carrots, pearl onions, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times so everything reaches the perfect tenderness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Peas Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites for a reason. It’s ridiculously easy to make, uses pantry staples, and delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that turns simple peas into a memorable side dish. Give it a try—you might just find it stealing the spotlight at your next meal!
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Peas Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Easy Creamed Peas is a simple and comforting side dish made with tender frozen peas cooked in a rich and creamy sauce of butter, flour, and half-and-half. This classic recipe is flavored with garlic powder and seasoned generously with salt and pepper, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups frozen peas
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and cook flour: Melt the butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add the flour and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add half-and-half and garlic powder: Whisk in the half-and-half and garlic powder until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy base.
- Incorporate peas: Stir in the frozen peas. Wait until the mixture starts to bubble, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer without boiling rapidly.
- Simmer and thicken sauce: Allow the peas to simmer uncovered for around 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream sauce thickens to your preferred consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more half-and-half to loosen it.
- Season: Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well before serving.
Notes
- Use frozen peas directly without thawing for best texture.
- The sauce will thicken further as it cools—adjust the consistency while cooking.
- For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped onion or fresh herbs like parsley.
- Serve warm as a side dish with roasted or grilled meats.
