Smoky Peas And New Potatoes
Creamy, smoky peas and potatoes combine rich cheese and bacon flavors, creating a comforting casserole perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sliced new potatoes covered in boiling water for about 12 minutes.
- Add frozen peas to the potatoes and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and peas.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
- Add flour to the melted margarine, stirring to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk to the flour mixture, cooking until thickened.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add smoked cheese cubes to the flour mixture and stir until melted.
- Combine the cheese mixture with the cooked potatoes and peas.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Crumble bacon over the top of the casserole.
- Serve immediately or keep warm in the oven before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the smoked cheese with Gouda or cheddar if needed. If you want to add more depth of flavor, try incorporating some smoked paprika into the roux. This dish is also great with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, which can brighten the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for barbecues. It can also be served alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with Pork Chops, Kraut And Potatoes to complement the smoky flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoky Peas And New Potatoes contains roughly 1222 calories, with 21g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), potassium (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used, but they will require less cooking time. Add them to the new potatoes in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to ensure they remain tender and vibrant.
What if I don't have margarine?
You can easily substitute butter for margarine in this recipe. The flavor will be richer, and it will work well to create the roux. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just bake it in the oven until heated through, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).