Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas

Name: Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried black eyed peas; 4 cups water; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

Enjoy the rich and comforting flavors of Southern cuisine with these Creamy Black Eyed Peas. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:18:28.004Z

This recipe for Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas is a classic comfort food that hails from the heart of the South. With a rich, creamy texture and delicious flavors, it's a dish that warms the soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that enhances the natural flavors of the peas
Perfectly seasoned for a burst of Southern flavor
A comforting dish that warms you up on cold days

      

The Heart of Southern Cooking

Southern cuisine is celebrated for its depth of flavor and comforting dishes that bring people together. Black eyed peas are a staple in Southern cooking, often associated with good luck and prosperity, especially when enjoyed on New Year's Day. This recipe for Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas captures the essence of this rich culinary tradition, blending time-honored techniques with simple, wholesome ingredients.

The combination of black eyed peas with onion and garlic creates a delightful base, while the addition of heavy cream and butter transforms this humble legume into a luxurious dish. With its rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced seasoning, this dish is not just a side but a centerpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Versatile and Nourishing

Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish accompanying fried chicken, cornbread, or collard greens, or they can take center stage as a hearty vegetarian main course. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with a variety of flavors, making it an ideal dish for any meal of the day.

In addition to being delicious, black eyed peas are packed with nutrients. They are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making them a wholesome addition to your diet. Whether you're looking for comfort food or a nutritious meal, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best features of Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas is their suitability for meal prep. This dish can be made in larger batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient option for busy weeknight dinners or lunches. Simply reheat and enjoy the comforting flavors all over again.

For those who love to freeze meals, this dish also freezes well. Portion it into containers and store it in the freezer for a quick and satisfying meal whenever you need it. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you'll find yourself reaching for this dish time and again.

Ingredients

For the Black Eyed Peas

1 cup dried black eyed peas
4 cups water
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter

Make sure to soak the black eyed peas overnight for the best texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Black Eyed Peas

Rinse the dried black eyed peas under cold water and soak them overnight in a large bowl. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Peas

In a large pot, combine the soaked peas, water, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

Add Cream and Butter

Once the peas are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and butter. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy.

Serve warm as a side dish or over rice for a comforting meal.

Tips for the Perfect Dish

To achieve the best texture for your black eyed peas, make sure to soak them overnight. This step not only helps to soften the peas but also reduces cooking time. If you're short on time, you can use the quick soak method by boiling the peas for a few minutes and then letting them sit for an hour before draining and cooking.

For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating smoked ham hocks or bacon into the cooking process. This will infuse the dish with a delightful smokiness that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the peas, elevating the overall taste.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Creamy Southern Black Eyed Peas, consider garnishing with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Pair this dish with cornbread for the ultimate Southern feast. The combination of creamy peas and fluffy cornbread is sure to create a satisfying and comforting meal that everyone will love.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional cream to restore the creaminess, ensuring that the dish retains its delicious texture.

If freezing, allow the peas to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black eyed peas?

Yes, if using canned black eyed peas, reduce the cooking time to 10-15 minutes.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the creamy black eyed peas for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with black eyed peas?

They pair well with cornbread, rice, or alongside grilled meats.