Smoky Peas And Potatoes
A hearty, smoky casserole combining tender potatoes, peas, crispy bacon, and melted cheese in a creamy sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook whole potatoes in salted water until done, then drain.
- Drain the peas.
- Fry bacon slices until crisp, then drain and crumble.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and milk to the melted butter, and cook until thickened.
- Add cheese to the sauce and stir until melted.
- Combine the cooked potatoes and peas in a greased casserole dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes and peas.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top.
- Bake in the oven at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. You can also substitute half of the cheese with a low-fat variety to reduce calories. If you're short on time, use frozen peas instead of canned for a fresher taste. Adding a dash of hot sauce can elevate the smoky flavor even more, similar to what you might find in New England Clam Chowder With Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a hearty side that pairs well with grilled meats like Pork recipes, making it perfect for summer barbecues. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a comforting meal, serve it with a slice of crusty bread or even a piece of Wake Up Late Casserole for a filling brunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoky Peas And Potatoes contains roughly 754 calories, with 15g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1453mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
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 make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water to boil the potatoes. You may also want to add some sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of the bacon.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a great choice for its melty texture and sharp flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a different taste. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well to achieve a creamy sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).