Name: Cream of Pea Soup – A Creamy Bowl of Green Goodness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped; 1 cup lump crab meat; 1/2 cup scallops, chopped (optional); 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 package (11 oz) Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 3/4 cup cold water; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Looking for a warm, creamy soup that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor? This Cream of Pea Soup is a cozy classic that delivers comfort in every spoonful. Made with vibrant green peas, a hint of onion and garlic, and just enough cream to round it all out, this soup is perfect for a light lunch, a dinner starter, or a wholesome vegetarian main course.

Unlike traditional pea ham soup, which tends to be chunky and rustic, this version is silky smooth and full of fresh flavor. Whether you’re craving a light yet satisfying bowl or searching for healthy, simple green peas recipes, this one is sure to become a favorite. It’s budget-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and can easily be adapted to suit vegan or low-carb diets.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious cream of pea soup at home, from scratch, with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

What Is Cream of Pea Soup?

Cream of pea soup is a smooth, blended soup made primarily with green peas and a creamy liquid base. Unlike split pea soup or pea ham soup, which are usually thick, chunky, and often include smoked meat, this version is lighter in texture and has a subtle, sweet, earthy flavor.

This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of green peas, enhanced by aromatic ingredients like onion, garlic, and herbs. The cream adds body and richness without overpowering the freshness of the peas. Served hot or cold, it makes a wonderful seasonal dish that’s both nourishing and comforting.

Whether you’re after a new cream soup recipe, exploring pea soup recipes, or simply looking for a cozy green dish to enjoy, this one’s an excellent choice.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pea Soup Recipe

There’s so much to love about this humble yet elegant bowl of soup. It’s fast and easy, ready in about 30 minutes with just a few simple steps. It’s healthy and filling too—green peas are high in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. This soup is great for meal prep; make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s low-carb adaptable—use unsweetened almond milk or cream alternatives for a lighter version. And it’s vegan-friendly if made without dairy by swapping in coconut cream or plant-based milk.

If you’re looking for versatile pea recipes that work for weeknights or dinner parties, this one checks all the boxes.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cream of Pea Soup

Here’s what you need to bring this creamy soup together:

2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
2½ cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if not vegetarian)
½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
Fresh herbs for garnish (like chives, parsley, or mint)

This combination offers both richness and freshness without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the peas.

Tools and Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this soup smooth and hassle-free, you’ll need a medium soup pot or saucepan, immersion blender or traditional blender, sharp knife and cutting board, ladle, and measuring cups and spoons. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending and always blend in batches to avoid spills.

How to Make Cream of Pea Soup (Step-by-Step)

In a medium pot, melt the butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Pour in the green peas, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the peas are tender and vibrant green.

Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender and blend until silky. Return the soup to the pot if needed.

Stir in the cream (or your choice of dairy-free substitute) and return to low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a swirl of cream or olive oil, chopped herbs, or croutons for a touch of crunch. Serve warm, or chill and serve cold on a hot summer day.

Variations of Creamed Peas in Soup Form

Want to make it your own? Try one of these easy variations. Add ham or bacon for a hearty pea ham soup twist. Make it vegan by using coconut milk or cashew cream and skipping the butter. Add a small peeled potato to the mix for added body and natural thickening. Use leeks instead of onions for a more delicate flavor. Boost the protein by adding a scoop of unflavored collagen or stirring in a spoonful of Greek yogurt just before serving.

This recipe is a great way to explore the flavor potential of creamy peas beyond the classic creamed peas side dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Green Peas Recipes

Green peas are more than just a side dish. They’re rich in plant-based protein, making them great for vegetarian and vegan diets. They’re packed with fiber to support digestion and keep you feeling full. Peas are also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, which boost immunity, support vision, and promote bone health. Plus, they’re low in fat and calories, making this soup ideal for light meals or anyone following a soup low carb plan. Simply reduce the cream or swap for a lighter plant-based milk to make it even more macro-friendly.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Pea Soup

This soup is elegant enough for a starter yet satisfying enough for a meal. Pair it with crusty bread or garlic toast, a crisp green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. Serve with roasted vegetables or stuffed mushrooms for a fuller dinner. For a gourmet touch, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or swirl of herbed olive oil on top.

It also pairs beautifully with other cream soup recipes as part of a multi-course meal.

How to Store and Reheat Cream of Pea Soup

Proper storage keeps this soup delicious for days. In the refrigerator, store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing. In the freezer, allow the soup to cool and transfer to freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs About Cream of Pea Soup

Can I use frozen peas? Yes, frozen peas work perfectly and offer great texture and color.

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely. It stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Can I use milk instead of cream? Yes, though the soup will be a little thinner. Half-and-half or evaporated milk are good middle-ground options.

What can I use instead of onion and garlic? Leeks or shallots are great substitutions for a milder taste.

Can I serve it cold? Yes. Chill the soup and serve cold for a refreshing summer appetizer or light lunch.

Conclusion

This Cream of Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, satisfying, and packed with wholesome green pea goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a soothing lunch, or a delicious way to add more vegetables to your diet, this soup delivers on every level.

Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s the perfect recipe to return to again and again. Be sure to share this recipe with friends, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas using creamed peas, low-carb soups, and classic pea recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat.

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