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 this for my family on a chilly evening when we wanted something warm and filling but simple to prepare. Everyone loved how comforting and creamy it turned out, and it quickly became a staple in our weekly dinner rotation.
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.
- 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.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save to Pinterest Sharing macaroni and peas often brings back memories of big family dinners and the joy of everyone gathering around the table to eat together. Even picky eaters enjoy this creamy, cozy meal.
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 to Pinterest Makes a wonderfully satisfying main dish for any night. Leftovers taste great reheated the next day, too.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work wonderfully and add a bright, natural sweetness when cooked briefly with the pasta.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Swap butter for olive oil, use plant-based milk like almond or oat, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- → What pasta water is used for?
Reserved pasta water adds starch that helps create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the macaroni and peas evenly.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, consider adding cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna to boost protein and enhance flavor variety.
- → What herbs complement this dish best?
Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the rich, creamy flavors.