Midwest Comfort Classic: Creamed Potatoes & Peas

Photo bySimply Homemade Recipes

The Midwest has long been celebrated for its rich agricultural roots and comforting, hearty dishes. Creamed New Potatoes and Peas is one of those Midwest classics that makes you feel at home with every bite. This dish combines tender, earthy new potatoes and sweet peas enveloped in a smooth, velvety cream sauce, offering an ideal side for any family meal. Whether served at a summer gathering or alongside your favorite roasted meats, this recipe brings out the best of Midwest produce.

The secret to this dish lies in its simplicity. The natural sweetness of peas paired with the buttery softness of new potatoes is made even better by a luscious cream sauce. The creaminess complements the vegetables without overpowering their fresh, garden flavor, making each mouthful a perfect bite of Midwest comfort. Fresh herbs, like parsley and chives, bring a burst of brightness, elevating the dish with an added layer of freshness.

This recipe for Creamed New Potatoes and Peas captures everything that makes Midwest cuisine so beloved: it’s down-to-earth, delicious, and highlights fresh ingredients. Follow this easy recipe and bring a touch of the Midwest to your dinner table.

Recipe: Midwest Style Creamed New Potatoes and Peas
Ingredients:

• 1 lb new potatoes, halved or quartered depending on size
• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Directions:

1. Submerge the new potatoes in a pot of boiling water and cook until tender, approximately 10-12 minutes.
2. Introduce the peas into the pot during the final 3 minutes of boiling time.
3. Carefully drain the contents and set them aside.
4. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat before adding the onion and garlic. Cook until translucent and soft.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to gently simmer.
6. Reintroduce the potatoes and peas, ensuring they are coated in the luxurious cream sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the dish cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thoroughly warmed.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and chives before serving.

This Creamed New Potatoes and Peas dish is perfect for any occasion. The creamy texture and fresh herbs make it a versatile side that complements a variety of main dishes, from roast chicken to grilled steaks. With its combination of simple ingredients and rich flavor, it's easy to see why this dish has become a staple in Midwest kitchens. Its charm lies in its comforting taste and ability to showcase fresh, local produce in every bite.

Creamed New Potatoes and Peas is a beloved classic in Midwest cuisine, often prepared during spring when fresh peas are available, though frozen peas work just as well. The dish combines tender new potatoes with sweet peas, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Its simplicity, rooted in local produce, has made it a staple at family dinners across the Midwest.

This recipe captures the essence of comfort food, with a buttery sauce that’s lightened by fresh herbs like parsley and chives, adding a burst of flavor. The potatoes bring a tender, slightly earthy texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of peas. It's the perfect side for any hearty meal or can even stand alone with some crusty bread.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. As some recipes suggest, you can adjust the creaminess by using heavy cream or milk, depending on preference​(Allrecipes)​(Restless Chipotle). Adding onions and garlic to the sauce brings a depth of flavor, while a dash of paprika or nutmeg can personalize the dish even further​(FARMER'S WIFE MAGAZINE).