Creamy Ham and Peas Delight over Whipped Spuds
Transform your leftovers into a mouthwatering meal with this Creamy Ham and Peas Delight over Whipped Spuds! This dish brilliantly combines tender, diced ham and sweet peas in a silky gravy, served atop a bed of fluffy whipped potatoes. Perfect for using up that leftover holiday ham, it’s a comforting meal that your whole family will love. Serve it over toasted biscuits, noodles, or rice for a delightful twist. Inspired by talented chefs from the community, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite on your dinner table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
vegetable oil
4 tablespoons (none)
ham
2 cups (leftover and diced)
all-purpose flour
5 tablespoons (none)
milk
1.5-2 cups (gradually added)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
ground black pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
frozen green peas
1 cup (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced ham and cook, stirring occasionally, until the ham is lightly browned and crispy around the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
2
Sprinkle the flour over the ham, stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the flour is well incorporated and forms a light, golden-brown mixture.
3
Gradually add the milk to the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken, adjusting the amount of milk as needed to reach your desired gravy consistency.
4
Season the gravy with salt and ground black pepper to taste, mixing well.
5
Fold in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the peas are heated through and tender, stirring occasionally.
6
Serve the creamy ham and pea mixture generously ladled over your choice of whipped potatoes, or your preferred starch.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Ham and Peas Delight?
It is a comforting dish featuring diced ham and sweet peas in a smooth white gravy, traditionally served over fluffy whipped potatoes.
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover holiday ham, but any thick-cut or diced ham from the grocery store will work well.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, though you may need to simmer them slightly longer in the gravy to ensure they are tender.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
To thicken the gravy, allow it to simmer for a few extra minutes or whisk in a small amount of extra flour before adding the milk.
What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
Simply stir in a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
What can I serve this over besides whipped potatoes?
This dish is also delicious when served over toasted biscuits, egg noodles, white rice, or even thick slices of toasted bread.
Can I substitute butter for vegetable oil?
Yes, substituting butter for vegetable oil will add a richer flavor to the roux and the final gravy.
How long does it take to brown the ham?
It usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat to get the ham lightly browned and crispy around the edges.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, you can make the ham and pea mixture ahead of time and reheat it, though you may need to add a splash of milk when warming it up.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! Diced carrots, sautéed onions, or mushrooms would be excellent additions to the ham and pea mixture.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk can be used, though the final sauce may be slightly thinner and have a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent lumps in my gravy?
The key is to add the milk very gradually while stirring or whisking constantly to ensure the flour and oil mixture incorporates smoothly.
How much salt should I add?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon, but since ham is naturally salty, it is best to taste the gravy first before adding more.
Can I use canned peas?
Yes, but canned peas are much softer than frozen, so add them at the very end just to warm them through so they don't get mushy.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this recipe?
You can freeze it, but dairy-based gravies can sometimes separate or change texture when thawed and reheated.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener.
How do I reheat this dish?
Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Yes, stirring in some shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese at the end would create a delicious cheesy version of this dish.
What potatoes are best for the whipped spuds?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they have a high starch content which results in a fluffy texture.
Can I use leftover turkey instead of ham?
Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with leftover roasted turkey or even cooked chicken.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on the ingredients, this recipe typically serves 4 people depending on the portion size.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
This specific recipe is designed for the stovetop to create a roux, but you could adapt the flavors for a slow cooker if using a different thickening method.
What spices can I add for extra flavor?
Garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of dried thyme or parsley would complement the ham and peas beautifully.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, its mild flavors and creamy texture make it a popular choice for children and picky eaters.
How long should I cook the peas?
Frozen peas only need about 5 to 10 minutes in the simmering gravy to become tender and heated through.
What is a roux?
A roux is the mixture of oil (or butter) and flour cooked together, which serves as the thickening base for the gravy.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
Yes, using heavy cream will make the sauce significantly richer and more decadent.
Do I need to thaw the peas first?
No, you can add the frozen peas directly to the skillet; they will thaw and heat up quickly in the hot gravy.
Can I add a bit of heat to this recipe?
Yes, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can be added if you prefer a spicy kick.