Creamed Peas with Pearl Onions
Creamed Peas with Pearl Onions is one of those comforting, nostalgic side dishes that has been passed from one generation to the next. It is simple, warm, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. This classic holiday side has been a staple on family tables for decades, and for good reason. It brings together tender peas, sweet pearl onions, and a velvety cream sauce that turns simple ingredients into something timeless.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
2 12oz packages frozen green peas
1 14oz package frozen pearl onions
3 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp flour
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Chives for garnishing
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
Thaw the green peas. Simmer frozen pearl onions in boiling water for about five minutes, then drain thoroughly. Softening the onions ensures they blend smoothly into the creamy sauce later without becoming mushy.
Step 2
Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the pearl onions and sauté for five minutes to develop sweetness and a little color.
Step 3
Add the peas to the pan and sauté for one minute. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar. This quick sauté warms the peas and distributes the seasoning before the sauce begins to form.
Step 4
Sprinkle the flour over the peas and onions. Mix until fully coated and cook for one minute. This helps the flour absorb the butter and prevents lumps in the cream sauce.
Step 5
Gradually pour in the cream while stirring continuously. Let the mixture cook until the sauce thickens to a smooth consistency. This step transforms the dish into its signature creamy texture.
Step 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with finely chopped chives before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Creamed Peas with Pearl Onions is a versatile holiday side dish that fits seamlessly onto any seasonal table. It pairs beautifully with roast turkey, glazed ham, herb roasted chicken, pork chops, Salisbury steak, or slow cooked ribs. The mild sweetness of the peas balances rich, meaty entrées wonderfully. It is equally delicious spooned over mashed potatoes or served alongside stuffing, roasted carrots, or green beans. For a cozy winter meal, serve it with toasted bread or biscuits where the creamy sauce can soak into the slices.
Tips
- If your sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to adjust the texture.
- To prepare ahead of a busy holiday, make the dish up to two days in advance and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- For substitutions, use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, or leave out the onions entirely for a simpler creamed peas dish.
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 242 | 6g | 21g | 15g | 5g | 9g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation
FAQs
Can I use canned peas
Yes, but rinse them first and reduce cooking time since they are already soft.
Can I use jarred pearl onions
Yes. They work well and reduce prep time even further.
Why add sugar
It balances the natural sweetness of the peas and enhances the creamy flavor
Can this dish be frozen
It is not recommended because cream sauces can separate when frozen.
How do I thicken the sauce if needed
Simmer for a few extra minutes or add an additional teaspoon of flour mixed with a splash of cream.
Creamed Peas with Pearl Onions
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Classic creamy vegetable side dish featuring peas and pearl onions in a rich white sauce.
Ingredients
2 12oz packages frozen green peas
1 14oz package frozen pearl onions
3 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp flour
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Chives for garnish
Instructions
1. Thaw peas. Simmer frozen onions in boiling water for 5 minutes then drain.
2. Melt butter in pan over medium heat and sauté onions 5 minutes.
3. Add peas and sauté 1 minute. Season with salt pepper and sugar.
4. Add flour and coat well. Cook 1 minute.
5. Gradually add cream stirring continuously until thickened.
6. Taste adjust seasoning and garnish with chives.
Notes
If using fresh peas cook them until soft before beginning.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 242
- Sugar: 9
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 21
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 45










