Mama’s Black Eyed Pea Casserole is a warm, comforting dish perfect for cozy nights or your New Year’s Day feast. This creamy and hearty meal brings together tender black eyed peas, savory spices, and rich cheese, all baked to golden perfection. If you love a classic Black Eyed Peas Recipe, this one will steal your heart.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- It’s a one dish meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
- Perfect for using leftover peas or rice from other recipes.
- It freezes well and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- Black eyed peas : the star of this recipe, creamy and full of flavor
- Cooked rice : adds body and texture to the casserole
- Ground beef or turkey : brings a hearty and savory layer
- Onion : gives a sweet aroma and depth
- Bell pepper : adds color and crunch
- Garlic : infuses warmth and flavor
- Tomatoes : add tangy richness to balance the creamy base
- Cheddar cheese : creates that gooey, golden topping
- Spices : a mix of paprika, salt, and pepper for seasoning
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground meat until browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in tomatoes, cooked rice, and black eyed peas, mixing until everything is coated in sauce.
- Season with paprika, salt, and pepper, then transfer to the prepared dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Mistakes To Avoid
When making Mama’s Black Eyed Pea Casserole, take care not to overcook the peas or let the casserole dry out. This dish should stay moist and creamy with every bite.
- Do not skip draining the tomatoes, or the casserole may turn watery.
- Avoid using uncooked rice, as it will not soften properly in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious casserole with a side of Spanish rice and beans for extra flavor. For a fun appetizer, try pairing it with black eyed pea fritters. If you prefer a smoky twist, add a few spoonfuls of black eyed peas with smoked turkey legs to your meal. It also stores beautifully—just reheat leftovers in the oven for a quick and tasty lunch.
Mama’s Black Eyed Pea Casserole
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking Dish
- Oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups black eyed peas cooked and drained
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup tomatoes chopped, drained if canned
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in tomatoes, cooked rice, and black eyed peas. Mix until well combined.
- Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use canned black eyed peas instead of dried ones?
Yes, canned peas work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to rinse and drain them before mixing. If you prefer to learn How To Cook Black Eyed Peas from scratch, simmer dried peas until tender before adding them to your casserole. The flavor will be richer and more traditional.
Is Mama’s Black Eyed Pea Casserole good for New Year’s Day?
Absolutely! This dish makes an excellent addition to your New Years Black Eyed Peas spread. Many believe eating black eyed peas on New Year’s brings good luck and prosperity. Pair it with cornbread and greens for a complete Southern celebration.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it covered for about 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes. The flavors blend even more beautifully overnight, making it an easy make-ahead meal.
Conclusion
Mama’s Black Eyed Pea Casserole is comfort food at its best. It’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re learning How To Cook Black Eyed Peas for the first time or adding new dishes to your New Years Black Eyed Peas menu, this casserole will bring everyone back for seconds. Don’t forget to pin and save this recipe for your next cozy family dinner.
