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.
This dish became a go-to in our household during busy weeks. Every time I make it, I am reminded of family dinners gathered around the table, with everyone asking for seconds.
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 macaroni:
- 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.
- Prepare skillet base:
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Drain and reserve water:
- Drain the pasta and peas, reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta cooking water.
- Combine ingredients:
- 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 and serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save My kids love helping sprinkle the Parmesan on top, and it is one of those easy recipes we return to again and again when everyone wants something tasty and satisfying.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large skillet or pan, wooden spoon or spatula, and a grater for Parmesan are all you need to make this dish come together quickly.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat and dairy. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pasta. Plant-based dairy alternatives work well for dairy-free options.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 385 calories, 12 g total fat, 53 g carbohydrates, and 14 g protein. Nutrition will vary based on ingredient brands and any added proteins.
Save This macaroni and peas recipe is a reliable comfort classic with customizable options. Enjoy its simplicity and bright flavors any night of the week.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can frozen peas be used in this dish?
Yes, frozen peas work well and can be added during the last minutes of pasta cooking for a bright, fresh flavor and vibrant color.
- → What cheese enhances the creamy sauce?
Grated Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce to provide a rich, savory depth and creamy texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it uses dairy-based ingredients and does not contain meat, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Replace butter with olive oil, use plant-based milk, and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
- → Can protein be added to this meal?
Adding cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna provides extra protein and enhances the flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
Reserve some pasta cooking water and add it gradually to loosen the sauce until the desired creamy consistency is achieved.