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 tried this macaroni & peas recipe on a hectic weeknight when I needed something both satisfying and child-friendly. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness instantly won everyone over.
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 & 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.
- Sauté Onion & Garlic:
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 (3) 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients:
- 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.
- Add Dairy & Cheese:
- 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 & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save My kids love sprinkling extra Parmesan on this dish, and it has quickly become our go-to for comfort food Mondays.
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 gluten-free, use certified gluten-free macaroni. For dairy-free, use plant-based alternatives. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 385, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 53 g, Protein: 14 g
Save Enjoy this macaroni & peas for instant comfort. It is a family staple that always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas add a bright flavor and cook quickly alongside the pasta.
- → How do I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Replace butter with olive oil, use plant-based milk, and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast.
- → What pasta cooking tip ensures perfect texture?
Cook macaroni until just al dente, then add peas at the final 2 minutes of boiling for optimal tenderness.
- → Can I add extra protein to this dish?
Yes, cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna add protein and complement the flavors well.
- → How can I adjust the sauce thickness?
Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce gradually until desired creaminess is reached.