Quick Green Pea Casserole *
A comforting green pea casserole featuring tender peas, flavorful herbs, and a crunchy stuffing topping. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or potlucks, it combines creamy soup with fresh vegetables and savory seasonings for a versatile and satisfying dish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped celery and green pepper in a saucepan with a small amount of margarine, butter, or oil until soft.
- Add green peas with their liquid, undiluted cream of celery soup, and sweet basil; stir to combine.
- Add herb stuffing gradually until the liquid is absorbed and the mixture reaches the desired casserole consistency.
- Heat the mixture thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Decorate with pimento and serve.
- Optionally, stir in raw celery and green pepper for added crunch or omit them for an even quicker casserole.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. You can substitute the green pepper with chopped bell peppers for a milder flavor. If you want more protein, add cooked chicken or turkey. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free stuffing or omit it altogether. This recipe is versatile, allowing for a mix of vegetables based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a perfect side dish for grilled meats or a hearty main course for a vegetarian meal. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. It also pairs beautifully with Unbaked Peanut Butter Cookies for a delightful dessert to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Green Pea Casserole * contains roughly 22 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 green peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen green peas. Just thaw them and add them to the mixture without draining. This will give you a fresher taste and retain more nutrients compared to canned peas.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream of celery soup with a vegan alternative and use plant-based margarine or oil. You can also find a vegan stuffing mix or make your own with bread and herbs.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through.
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).