If you are looking for a comforting, creamy vegetable side that’s effortless to prepare yet wonderfully delicious, this Slow Cooker Creamed Peas Recipe is your new best friend. It takes frozen peas, melts in rich cream cheese and butter, and transforms them into a velvety, flavorful dish that stands out at any meal without demanding much time or attention. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these creamed peas bring a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a touch of savory, all made wonderfully easy in your slow cooker.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Creamed Peas Recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and lovely texture. Each component is essential to building that classic creamy profile you love, while the peas provide vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- 22 oz bag frozen peas: They add fresh green color and a sweet pop that forms the base of the dish.
- 8 oz cream cheese (cubed): Provides the signature creamy richness and helps thicken the sauce beautifully as it melts.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into pats): Adds depth and a velvety smooth texture that elevates every bite.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Enriches the sauce further, creating a luscious mouthfeel that’s pure indulgence.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances the savory notes with a subtle sweetness to complement the peas.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all flavors and brings harmony to the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamed Peas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peas
Start by pouring your frozen peas into the bottom of a slow cooker that’s at least 5 quarts. The frozen peas will slowly thaw and cook, absorbing all the rich flavors that we’ll add next.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Ingredients
Layer the cubed cream cheese, pats of unsalted butter, and pour in the heavy cream right over the peas. This layering ensures the cream cheese melts evenly and the butter imparts silkiness throughout the dish.
Step 3: Season and Sweeten
Sprinkle the granulated sugar, kosher salt, and ground black pepper on top. This simple seasoning combo may seem modest, but it perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the peas and the richness of the dairy.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 1 to 2 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours. During the process, stir a couple of times to help everything blend well and ensure the cream cheese completely melts into a silky sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to your liking.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Once the peas are tender and your sauce is decadently creamy, serve immediately. Alternatively, keep the slow cooker on the warm setting if you want to enjoy it later but so fresh, warm, and comforting.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamed Peas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little grated Parmesan can add an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal. You might also try a few crispy bacon bits on top for delightful textural contrast.
Side Dishes
This creamed peas recipe is fabulous alongside roasted chicken, glazed ham, or a perfectly cooked steak. It also pairs well with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that luscious cream sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fresh twist, serve these creamed peas over toasted crostini as an appetizer or swirl them into a warm pasta for a comforting vegetarian meal. Their vibrant green color makes for an eye-catching addition anywhere on the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The peas may thicken as they sit, so a quick stir or splash of cream before reheating will bring back that perfect texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this creamed peas dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best flavor and texture when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in a tablespoon of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Slow reheating will keep it creamy and prevent separation.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen in this Slow Cooker Creamed Peas Recipe?
Yes, fresh peas work beautifully, especially when in season. Just be mindful that fresh peas cook faster, so keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking them.
Is it possible to make this creamed peas recipe without cream cheese?
Cream cheese is key for the creamy texture, but you could try substituting with a mix of cream and a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter and cream alternatives. The slow cooker will still do its magic, creating a creamy, dreamy texture without dairy.
How long can I keep Slow Cooker Creamed Peas on the warm setting?
It’s best to keep them warming for no more than 2 hours to maintain the ideal texture and flavor. After that, the peas may start to become mushy or dry out.
Can I double this recipe if I’m cooking for a larger crowd?
Definitely. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume, and expect a slightly longer cooking time to ensure everything heats through evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Creamed Peas Recipe is one of those comforting dishes you’ll reach for again and again because it combines ease, flavor, and that smooth, creamy texture everyone loves. Whether you’re adding it to a simple dinner or elevating your holiday spread, these creamed peas are guaranteed to bring smiles all around the table. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite side!
