Green Pea Casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish that turns simple green peas into a rich and flavorful delight. This casserole combines tender green peas with a savory, cheesy sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. It’s an easy-to-make dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, holiday dinners, or any meal where you want a warm, comforting side. The balance of creamy sauce, sweet peas, and crunchy topping makes this casserole a favorite for both kids and adults alike, bringing a touch of nostalgia and comfort to the table.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen green peas, thawed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed green peas with the cheese sauce, stirring until the peas are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the Green Pea Casserole hot as a side dish.
Green Pea Casserole is a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that elevates the humble pea into a comforting, satisfying side. With its crunchy topping and rich flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any meal, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection.
