Oven Baked Peas
Oven-baked peas in a creamy cheese sauce with mushrooms and pimentos, topped with crumbs and paprika, perfect for comforting family dinners or side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan and add flour and milk, cooking until smooth.
- Add chopped mushrooms and pimentos to the sauce.
- Cook until cheese melts and the sauce is well combined.
- Add drained peas to the sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with crumbs, dot with butter, and sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also replace American cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor. If you want to add more texture, include crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions. Ensure the mushrooms and pimentos are finely chopped for better distribution in the sauce. Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven varies.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for protein. For a comforting finish, enjoy a slice of Grandma Davidson'S Custard Pie as dessert. It's a lovely combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, but the oven will help retain the original texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Peas contains roughly 448 calories, with 8g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (101% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen peas for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain well before adding to the sauce. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.
What can I use as a topping instead of crumbs?
If you prefer a gluten-free option, try using crushed nuts or seeds as a topping. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some cooked bacon bits or even use crushed tortilla chips for a different crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is vegetarian, as some brands contain anchovies. This dish is a great addition to vegetarian recipes and can be served as a main or side.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).