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 recipe became a staple during busy times in my first apartment: a quick bowl brought back happy childhood memories of my mom tossing macaroni and peas together on school nights.
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 Aromatics:
- 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 & Toss:
- 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 & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save No matter how busy we are, my family always sits together for meals. This dish often sparks laughter and comfort at our dinner table.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, skillet or sauté pan, wooden spoon or spatula, grater
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), milk, cheese. For alternatives, use plant-based and gluten-free options, always check product labels.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 385, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 53 g, Protein: 14 g
Save Enjoy your macaroni & peas hot and fresh: it's comfort food made simple, sure to please everyone at the table.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas work well and can be added directly to the boiling pasta water to cook through.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Replace butter with olive oil, milk with plant-based alternatives, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast for similar flavor.
- → What can I add for extra protein?
Cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna are great options to boost protein content.
- → Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Yes, reserved pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency and helps it cling better to the macaroni.
- → Can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk if needed.