Everyone’s got that bag of frozen peas buried in the freezer—the one you bought for a recipe months ago and promptly forgot about. It’s time to finally put them to good use. Peas are more than just a last-minute side dish; they’re perfect for adding a bit of sweetness and color to hearty stews without any extra hassle. Whether you’re tossing everything into a slow cooker or simmering a stovetop classic, these recipes make frozen peas the unexpected star.
Instant Pot Chicken Stew
Got an Instant Pot and a bag of frozen peas? This stew is calling your name. Juicy chicken, wholesome veggies, and a no-mess cooking process mean you’ll look like a pro without lifting a finger too long. It’s perfect for nights when you want to impress yourself and still have time for Netflix.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew
Chicken Stew
This chicken stew is like a hug in a bowl. With juicy chicken that practically falls apart, a tomato and red wine base that feels fancy without trying too hard, and veggies like peas rounding things out, it’s everything you need to make dinner feel like less of a chore. Bonus: it tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew
Meatball Stew
Think spaghetti and meatballs, but cozier. Tender meatballs get all dressed up with a thick, veggie-packed broth. The peas add just enough sweetness to keep things balanced, while the whole stew feels like it should come with a fireplace and a wool blanket. Let’s be real: one bowl won’t be enough.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Stew
Crockpot Beef Stew
This slow cooker superstar takes all the heavy lifting out of dinner. Toss in chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and a handful of frozen peas, then let it cook itself into a rich, velvety masterpiece. The best part? Walking into your kitchen hours later to the smell of something that screams “eat me.”
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Beef Stew
Stovetop Beef Stew
A stovetop classic that never goes out of style. With tender beef, hearty veggies, and a broth that feels like it’s been simmering for hours (because it has), this stew is the definition of worth the wait. Frozen peas give it a pop of color and sweetness, but the real star is the rich, hearty flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Stovetop Beef Stew
Pressure Cooker Chicken Stew
This stew is proof that quick doesn’t have to mean boring. Packed with chicken, crispy bits of bacon, soft potatoes, carrots, and peas, it’s the dinner that does all the heavy lifting for you. Plus, your pressure cooker makes sure you get all the flavor without the hours of babysitting. Win-win.
Get the Recipe: Pressure Cooker Chicken Stew
Ground Beef Stew
This Dutch oven staple brings ground beef and veggies together in a way that feels both easy and filling. The peas add a fresh, sweet contrast to the savory beef, while everything simmers together into a thick, hearty meal. It’s like dinner and a warm hug had a baby.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stew
Instant Pot Beef Stew
Beef stew, but make it fast. Your pressure cooker takes care of the heavy lifting, leaving you with melt-in-your-mouth beef, perfectly cooked veggies, and those peas that somehow make everything better. All in a fraction of the time, so you can eat like a king without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef Stew
Calamari, Potato and Pea Stew
This slow-cooked gem combines tender calamari, potatoes, and peas in a tomato sauce that’s spiked with red wine, olives, and anchovies. It’s fancy enough to feel special but easy enough for any day of the week. Whether it’s Christmas Eve or just Tuesday, this dish hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Calamari, Potato, and Peas
Brothy Beans with Parmesan, Peas, and Lemon
Simple, hearty, and just fancy enough to make you feel accomplished. Dried beans simmer to perfection in a flavorful broth, joined by bright peas and lemon for a burst of freshness. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top seals the deal. It’s a dinner that’s equal parts comfort and class.
Get the Recipe: Brothy Beans with Parmesan, Peas, and Lemon
Goat Stew
This stew brings tender, fall-apart goat meat to the forefront with a recipe inspired by Portuguese and Spanish traditions. Toss in some frozen peas and let everything simmer together for a dish that’s rich, hearty, and great to make ahead. Bonus: it freezes like a dream, so you’re set for future dinners too.
Get the Recipe: Goat Stew
Beef Vegetable Stew
Hearty chunks of beef, loads of veggies, and a broth that ties it all together—this stew is a straight-up classic. The carrots and peas bring a pop of color and sweetness, while the beef stays juicy and tender. It’s a perfect family dinner or meal prep go-to that hits all the right spots.
Get the Recipe: Beef Vegetable Stew
Ground Beef Curry
Ground beef meets bold spices in this Pakistani-inspired curry. It’s a family favorite with just enough peas to balance the richness. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that keeps everyone coming back for more. Pair it with rice or bread, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Curry
One Pot Chicken Stew
This one-pot chicken stew is all about simplicity. Juicy chicken thighs, a creamy broth, and a medley of veggies (including peas, of course) come together effortlessly. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like it’s doing the work for you while you sit back and relax. Perfect for a busy weeknight or meal prep for the week.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Chicken Stew
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
Don’t let the name fool you—this budget-friendly stew is loaded with flavor. Ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and peas slow-cook to perfection, making a hearty, no-fuss dinner. It’s the ultimate comfort food that tastes like it took way more effort than it actually did.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
Venison Stew
This venison stew proves that wild game can be just as tender and flavorful as beef. Slow-cooked with a mix of veggies like potatoes and peas, it’s a hearty meal that warms you up and feels just a little bit fancy. Whether you’re a venison pro or just curious, this one’s a winner.
Get the Recipe: Venison Stew
Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Take your beef stew to the next level with hearty root veggies that scream fall. Parsnips, carrots, and a handful of peas make this a seasonal favorite that’s anything but boring. The rich broth pulls everything together for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is straightforward to make.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
