Creamy Peas and Carrots
Creamy Peas and Carrots: A Classic Side Dish Made Easy
Looking for a comforting and delicious side dish that’s quick to make? Our Creamy Peas and Carrots recipe is a family favorite! This isn’t your average steamed vegetable – we elevate simple frozen peas and carrots with rich butter, cream cheese, and a touch of sweetness. It’s the perfect accompaniment to everything from roasted chicken and ham to simple weeknight dinners.
This recipe is incredibly easy, requiring minimal ingredients and prep time. It’s a fantastic way to get some extra vegetables on the table, even for picky eaters! The creaminess comes from the combination of butter and cream cheese, creating a sauce that coats the peas and carrots beautifully. A little sugar balances the flavors, making it a truly satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes!
- Comfort Food: A classic side dish that evokes warm memories.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to encourage vegetable consumption.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of main courses.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and frozen vegetables.
Tips for the Best Creamy Peas and Carrots:
- Don’t Overcook: You want the peas and carrots to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Keep a close eye on them while cooking.
- Use Quality Ingredients: While this recipe is simple, using good quality butter and cream cheese will make a difference in the final flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or sugar to taste.
- Add Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill at the end adds a lovely freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh peas and carrots?
A: Yes, you can! You’ll need about 1 pound of fresh peas (shelled) and 1 pound of carrots (peeled and sliced). You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While best served fresh, you can prepare this recipe a few hours in advance and gently reheat it on the stovetop. Add a splash of cream if needed to restore the creaminess.
Q: Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
A: It’s tricky, but possible. You could try substituting the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, but the texture and flavor will be different. Coconut cream could be used in place of heavy cream.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Corn, green beans, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions.
Q: What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream?
A: You can substitute with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. You may need to add a little cornstarch to thicken it.
Creamy Peas and Carrots
Ingredients
- 2 lb frozen peas and carrots
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp sugar
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt butter and cream cheese.
- Add the peas and carrots, sugar, salt and pepper.
- Stir frequently so all the ingredients blend well together.
- Cook over low heat until peas and carrots are hot. This will take about 10-15 minutes, depending on how high the heat.
- Add the whipping cream and heat through.
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