Easy Creamy Peas Recipe with Pearl Onions (Classic Holiday Side Dish)
Creamed peas and pearl onions are a classic comfort food side dish that deserves a permanent spot on your dinner table. This easy version is made with tender sweet peas, buttery pearl onions, and a rich homemade cream sauce infused with garlic, thyme, and fresh herbs.
The result is a creamy, cozy vegetable side that pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, baked ham, turkey, or Sunday pot roast. Using frozen peas and pearl onions keeps this recipe incredibly simple while still delivering old-fashioned flavor.
Whether you’re planning a holiday meal or just want an easy vegetable side dish for weeknight dinners, this garlic herb creamed peas and pearl onions recipe comes together in about 20 minutes.
Other Holiday Recipes You’ll Love
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Classic comforting flavor
• Quick 20-minute side dish
• Uses easy freezer staples
• Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners
• Creamy garlic herb sauce takes it to the next level
Ingredients
3 Tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp dried thyme
1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp chopped fresh chives
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk, warmed
2 cups frozen pearl onions, thawed
1 (10 oz) package frozen peas, thawed
¼ tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
⅛ tsp black pepper
Optional: pinch nutmeg for classic creamed flavor
Instructions
1. Melt the Butter
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the thyme.
2. Make the Cream Sauce
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and just begins to bubble.
3. Add the Vegetables
Stir in the pearl onions and peas. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are heated through and the sauce becomes creamy.
4. Finish with Fresh Herbs
Stir in the parsley and chives just before serving for a fresh herb finish.
Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Creamed Peas
Warm the milk first
This helps the sauce thicken smoothly without lumps.
Don’t overcook the peas
Frozen peas only need a few minutes to heat through.
Fresh herbs elevate the flavor
Parsley and chives brighten the richness of the cream sauce.
Creamed Peas and Pearl Onions with Garlic and Herbs
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender sweet peas and pearl onions in a rich garlic herb cream sauce. This easy creamed peas recipe is a classic comfort food side dish perfect for holiday dinners or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk, warmed
2 cups frozen pearl onions, thawed
1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas, thawed
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
Instructions
-
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a light roux.
-
Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens and begins to gently bubble.
-
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the pearl onions and peas.
-
Season with salt and black pepper and simmer for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and coated in the creamy sauce.
-
Stir in the fresh parsley and chives just before serving.
Notes
Warm the milk before adding it to the roux to help create a smooth cream sauce without lumps. Frozen peas and pearl onions make this recipe quick and convenient while still delivering classic flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 15 MINUTES
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: STOVETOP
- Cuisine: American
Variations
Bacon Creamed Peas
Add 4 slices of crispy chopped bacon.
Cheesy Creamed Peas
Stir in ½ cup grated parmesan.
Lemon Herb Creamed Peas
Add lemon zest and extra parsley.
Dill Creamed Peas
Swap thyme for fresh dill.
What to Serve with Creamed Peas and Pearl Onions
This creamy vegetable side pairs perfectly with:
It’s especially popular on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas dinner tables.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
