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.
This recipe has become a family staple on busy nights when I need to whip up something filling in just minutes. My kids always look forward to the creamy cheese and bright peas tossed with macaroni.
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 Onion & Garlic:
- 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 & Make Sauce:
- 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 to Pinterest 
Save to Pinterest Steaming up a pot of macaroni and peas always reminds me of my childhood when my dad cooked this after late soccer practice. Now it's a beloved comfort food I share with my own family.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large skillet or sauté pan, wooden spoon or spatula, grater (for cheese)
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and milk (dairy). To make gluten-free or dairy-free, swap for alternatives and read product labels carefully.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 385, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 53 g, Protein: 14 g
Save to Pinterest 
Save to Pinterest Try this dish on your next busy evening for a quick satisfying dinner. It pairs well with a leafy green salad or fresh fruit.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work well and can be added during the last few minutes of pasta cooking for a tender texture.
- → How do I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Swap butter for olive oil, use plant-based milk, and replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives.
- → What is the best pasta type to use here?
Macaroni is ideal for holding the creamy sauce and peas, but small pasta shapes like penne or shells can also be used.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, cooked ham, bacon, or canned tuna can be stirred in for extra protein and flavor.
- → How can I adjust the creaminess of the sauce?
Add more reserved pasta water or milk gradually while tossing to achieve your desired sauce consistency.