Black eyed pea casserole

Are you looking for a dish that’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor? Look no further than black eyed pea casserole! As someone who’s passionate about cooking and sharing meals with loved ones, I can attest to the joy of serving a warm, satisfying casserole that’s made with love. With its unique blend of textures and tastes, black eyed pea casserole is a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

I still remember the first time I tasted black eyed pea casserole at a family gathering. It was love at first bite! The combination of tender black eyed peas, crunchy vegetables, and savory spices was like nothing I’d ever experienced before. From that day on, I was hooked. I began experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to create my own signature recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a foodie seeking a new adventure, black eyed pea casserole is sure to delight.

Ingredients

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

 

black eyed pea casserole
black eyed pea casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe

To prepare the casserole, follow these easy steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
  3. Add the soaked black eyed peas, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and cumin to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
  5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of the black eyed pea mixture, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
  6. Drizzle the olive oil over the casserole and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

 

black eyed pea casserole

Black eyed pea casserole

A quick, healthy, and flavorful casserole combining tender black eyed peas and savory vegetables, topped with a golden, bubbly cheese and breadcrumb crust.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Soak Time 1 minute
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Casserole Base
  • 1 cup dried black eyed peas soaked overnight and drained
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Topping
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
    2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 red bell pepper
  3. Add the soaked black eyed peas, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and cumin to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
    1 cup dried black eyed peas, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, Salt and pepper
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheese and breadcrumbs. Do not overmix.
    1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of the black eyed pea mixture, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
  6. Drizzle any remaining olive oil over the casserole (optional) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  7. Serve hot, accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Notes

Soak the black eyed peas overnight to ensure they are tender and easy to digest. Avoid overmixing the cheese and breadcrumb topping to keep the casserole light. Adding diced ham or bacon to the sautéed vegetables can enhance smokiness and flavor.

Expert Tips for Best Results

To achieve the best results with this recipe, be sure to soak the black eyed peas overnight to ensure they’re tender and easy to digest. Additionally, don’t overmix the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, as this can make the casserole dense and heavy. Finally, consider adding some diced ham or bacon to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added smokiness and flavor. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly unforgettable black eyed pea casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Black eyed pea casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Consider serving it as a main course, accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables. Alternatively, you could serve it as a side dish at a barbecue or potluck, where its unique flavor and texture are sure to be a hit. If you’re looking for a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a charming and rustic presentation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, black eyed pea casserole is a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household. With its quick preparation time, healthy ingredients, and flavorful results, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to delight. So why not give it a try tonight and experience the joy of sharing a delicious, homemade meal with the people you love?

Ready to start cooking? Explore hundreds of delicious recipes now, and for daily inspiration and curated food ideas, follow us on Pinterest!

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating