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 macaroni & peas during college when time and budget were tight. It quickly became my go-to comfort dish that never failed to satisfy.
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.
- Prepare Aromatics:
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Drain the pasta and peas, reserving cooking water. Add drained pasta and peas to the skillet with onions. Stir in milk (or cream), Parmesan, reserved pasta water, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss over low heat until creamy and well coated, adding more pasta water if needed.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save My kids always ask for seconds when I make this. It is one of those meals that gathers everyone around the table, bringing warmth and smiles with every bite.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large skillet or pan, wooden spoon or spatula, grater for Parmesan
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, cheese. For gluten-free or dairy-free, use suitable alternatives and always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 385, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 53 g, Protein: 14 g
Save This dish comes together quickly for busy nights and is easy to customize. Enjoy macaroni & peas fresh, and savor the simple goodness in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work just as well and can add a sweeter, fresher taste when added in the last minutes of cooking.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Replace butter with olive oil, substitute milk with plant-based alternatives, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.
- → What is the best way to achieve a creamy sauce?
Using reserved pasta water with melted butter, milk, and cheese helps create a smooth and creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna can be added for extra protein without altering the dish’s comforting profile.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely, just swap the macaroni for certified gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten-free needs.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Add reserved pasta cooking water gradually to maintain a creamy consistency without thickening too much.