Save A comforting, budget-friendly pasta dish that combines tender macaroni with sweet green peas in a light, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
I first made this dish when I needed something fast but nourishing after a long day. The combination of soft pasta and sweet peas quickly became a favorite comfort meal with my family.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) dried macaroni
- Vegetables: 1 cup (150 g) frozen or fresh green peas, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Dairy & Flavorings: 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk or cream, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, Salt and black pepper to taste, Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Peas:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking add the peas to the boiling water.
- Prepare Onion and Garlic:
- While the pasta cooks melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent about 3 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine and Finish:
- Drain the pasta and peas reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta cooking water. Add the drained pasta and peas to the skillet with the onions. Stir in milk (or cream) Parmesan cheese a splash of reserved pasta water salt pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together over low heat until creamy and well coated adding more pasta water if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save My kids love helping to stir everything together. Sharing big bowls of macaroni and peas around the table is a simple weeknight tradition in our home.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large skillet or sauté pan, wooden spoon or spatula, grater (for Parmesan)
Allergen Information
Contains wheat gluten, milk dairy, cheese dairy. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 385, Total Fat 12 g, Carbohydrates 53 g, Protein 14 g.
Save This macaroni and peas recipe is perfect for a quick satisfying meal. Serve with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs to make it even better.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Fresh peas work well and add a bright, sweet flavor. Add them during the last 2 minutes of cooking just like frozen peas.
- → What dairy alternatives can I use for a vegan version?
Substitute butter with olive oil, replace milk with plant-based milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy vegan option.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too watery?
Use reserved pasta water sparingly and cook over low heat while stirring to help the sauce thicken and coat the pasta evenly.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Yes, cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna can be added for extra protein and flavor variety.
- → Which herbs complement this pasta dish best?
Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top enhance the dish’s flavor with a fresh, herbal note.