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.
Growing up, macaroni & peas was one of my favorite meals made by my grandmother. It always brought us together at the dinner table, and now I enjoy carrying on this tradition.
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.
- Make Sauce:
- 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.
- Drain & Reserve Water:
- Drain the pasta and peas, reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta cooking water.
- Combine:
- Add drained pasta and peas to the skillet with onions. Stir in milk (or cream), Parmesan cheese, a splash of reserved pasta water, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss 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 to Pinterest This meal reminds me of cozy Sundays at my parents' house when we would gather for a simple, nourishing supper and share stories around the table.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large skillet or saute pan, wooden spoon or spatula, grater (for Parmesan)
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (dairy), cheese (dairy). Use gluten-free pasta and plant-based alternatives as needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 385, Total Fat 12 g, Carbohydrates 53 g, Protein 14 g
Save to Pinterest Enjoy macaroni & peas as a quick, comforting meal any night of the week. Each bite brings the warmth of home and will satisfy every member of the family.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas work well and can be added during the last minutes of pasta cooking for convenience and to retain their sweetness.
- → What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
For a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast or plant-based cheese substitutes can provide a similar savory flavor.
- → How do I make the sauce creamier?
Adding reserved pasta water gradually helps create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- → Is there a way to add protein to this dish?
Including cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna can boost protein content and add extra flavor.
- → Can this dish be prepared vegan?
Replace butter with olive oil, use plant-based milk, and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.