Save to Pinterest 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 macaroni & peas on a chilly evening when time was short and everyone craved something simple. It became an instant favorite at our table.
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
- Boil Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Add Peas:
- In the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add the peas to the boiling water.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- 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 & Drain:
- Drain the pasta and peas, reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta cooking water.
- Mix:
- 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.
- Finish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has sparked many happy memories around our busy dinner table, especially on nights when comfort food was just what we needed.
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). For dairy free, use plant based alternatives.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 385, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 53 g, Protein: 14 g
Save to Pinterest Enjoy macaroni & peas fresh and hot for best texture and flavor. Make extra to reheat for a quick lunch the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen peas for this dish?
Yes, frozen peas work well and can be added directly to the boiling pasta water during cooking.
- → What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute, adding a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- → How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk alternatives instead of cream or milk.
- → Can I add protein to this meal?
Yes, cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna can be stirred in for extra protein.
- → What herbs pair well with this pasta and peas combination?
Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top brighten the dish with herbal notes.