The Best Creamy Black Eyed Pea & Mushroom Skillet Ever

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, creamy skillet dish on a quiet evening at home. This Creamy Black Eyed Pea & Mushroom Skillet is the perfect recipe for cozy nights when you want something hearty, nourishing, and packed with flavor. Inspired by classic Southern cooking and the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms paired with tender black eyed peas, this dish brings together simplicity and indulgence in one pan.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, preparing a meal for friends, or simply craving a satisfying solo meal, this skillet recipe is versatile and comforting. The creamy sauce wraps around each bite, while the mushrooms add depth and texture, making it a dish that feels both homey and special. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal produce or enjoy a meatless meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (white, cremini, or a mix)

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black eyed peas, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup vegetable broth

• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for mild heat)

• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or a plant-based alternative

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.

2. Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden brown.

3. Incorporate Black Eyed Peas: Add the drained black eyed peas to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onions and mushrooms.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat slightly, then stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using). Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Add Greens and Cheese: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan or plant-based alternative over the skillet and stir until fully melted and incorporated.

6. Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve warm, straight from the skillet, with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Skillet

• Mushroom Variety: Mix white, cremini, and shiitake mushrooms for a richer, more complex flavor.

• Make it Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a vegan cheese alternative.

• Add Texture: Toasted nuts like almonds or pecans can add a crunchy element.

• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully on the stovetop or microwave.

Why Black Eyed Peas Are So Good for You

Black eyed peas aren’t just a delicious Southern staple—they’re also incredibly nutritious. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, they help keep you full and energized. They’re low in fat and have a low glycemic index, making them great for heart health and blood sugar control. Pairing them with mushrooms adds antioxidants and vitamins like D and B-complex, creating a meal that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy skillet is a star on its own but can be paired with sides to make a full meal:

• Over Rice: Serve it over fluffy white, brown, or jasmine rice to soak up the creamy sauce.

• With Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread works beautifully for dipping and scooping.

• Alongside a Salad: Pair it with a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the skillet.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. You can also add a small splash of vegetable broth or cream to bring back the silky consistency.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Black Eyed Pea & Mushroom Skillet is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of creamy sauce, tender black eyed peas, and earthy mushrooms creates a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve guests.

Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is approachable, satisfying, and designed to be shared. With minimal prep, one skillet, and ingredients that are easy to find, it’s a dish that anyone can master and love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Creamy Black Eyed Pea & Mushroom Skillet is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a small splash of vegetable broth or cream while reheating helps restore the creamy texture and prevents the sauce from becoming too thick. Interestingly, letting the dish sit overnight can actually enhance the flavors, allowing the spices and seasonings to meld beautifully. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even for preparing ahead of a dinner party so you can spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

Can I use canned mushrooms or frozen vegetables?

While fresh mushrooms provide the best texture, flavor, and appearance, canned or frozen mushrooms can also work in a pinch. If you choose canned mushrooms, make sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the skillet, which could thin the creamy sauce. For frozen mushrooms, allow them to thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. This prevents them from steaming instead of sautéing, which helps maintain that rich, caramelized flavor. Similarly, frozen spinach or other frozen vegetables can be added toward the end of cooking. Just heat them through gently until they’re fully incorporated into the creamy sauce. Using canned or frozen vegetables is a convenient way to enjoy this skillet year-round, especially when fresh produce isn’t available.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your taste or what’s available in your kitchen. Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or even asparagus can be added while sautéing the onions and mushrooms. Be sure to chop all vegetables into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Adding extra vegetables not only boosts the nutritional value but also enhances the color, texture, and flavor of the skillet. This flexibility makes it easy to adapt the recipe for seasonal produce or to create a dish that appeals to everyone at the table.

How can I make it spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat in your meals, there are several ways to give this creamy skillet a spicy kick. You can increase the cayenne pepper from the recommended ½ teaspoon to a full teaspoon, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic to infuse the oil with heat. Another option is to serve individual portions with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, allowing each person to adjust the spice to their preference. The creamy sauce actually balances the heat nicely, creating a rich, flavorful dish that’s warm and comforting without being overpowering.

Final Thoughts

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be extraordinary. This Creamy Black Eyed Pea & Mushroom Skillet proves that simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create a meal that’s both delicious and memorable. The warm, hearty flavors are comforting, while the creamy texture ensures each bite is indulgent.

Try this recipe for your next family dinner, a cozy night in, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something special. The blend of black eyed peas, mushrooms, and creamy sauce makes it a standout dish that will keep everyone coming back for more. Serve it as a main course, pair it with a salad, or enjoy it with crusty bread—the choice is yours.

No matter the occasion, this skillet is a celebration of flavor, comfort, and wholesome ingredients that nourish the body and soul.

The Best Creamy Black Eyed Pea & Mushroom Skillet Ever

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A warm, comforting skillet dish perfect for cozy evenings or casual family dinners. This creamy black eyed pea and mushroom skillet combines tender black eyed peas, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, flavorful sauce for a hearty, satisfying meal. Inspired by Southern cooking traditions, it’s a versatile dish that works as a main course or a side, perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black eyed peas, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup vegetable broth

• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or plant-based alternative

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.

• Stir in garlic and mushrooms, cooking 5–7 minutes until mushrooms are golden and tender.

• Add black eyed peas and mix well with onions and mushrooms.

• Pour in vegetable broth, then stir in cream, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, salt, and cayenne. Simmer 8–10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

• Add chopped spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.

• Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or over rice.

Notes

• For a vegan version, use coconut cream and a plant-based cheese alternative.

• Add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth.

• For extra heat, increase cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Michelle Davis