Name: Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas (Instant Pot + Stovetop!) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil (can substitute with bacon grease or duck fat); 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 stalk celery, finely chopped; 1 small jalapeño, deseeded and finely diced; 6 cloves garlic, finely minced or 1 tablespoon garlic paste; 2 bay leaves; 2–3 teaspoons Creole Cajun Seasoning (homemade or store-bought); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 lb smoked turkey wings or ham hocks; 1 lb (16 ounces) dried black-eyed peas, sorted and rinsed; 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth; Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional); Cooked white rice (optional); Cornbread (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 22 reviews

If you’ve been searching for that perfect comfort dish to warm your soul, look no further than this Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas (Instant Pot + Stovetop!) Recipe. It’s packed with rich, smoky flavors from tender smoked turkey, complemented by a lively mix of aromatics and Creole Cajun spices that come together to create a dish creamy beyond belief. Whether you’re gathering for a family dinner or just craving a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug, this recipe delivers Southern comfort in every spoonful, with options for both quick Instant Pot magic and traditional stovetop simmering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center left, there is a white speckled plate with two golden-brown cooked chicken pieces stacked side by side. Above it to the right, an oval white speckled dish holds three chopped layers: white onions at the top, bright green bell peppers in the middle, and celery pieces at the bottom. To the left of this dish, there is a round white speckled bowl filled with black-eyed peas. Surrounding these main dishes are small white bowls with yellow oil, whole peeled garlic cloves, and dark soy sauce. There is also a glass measuring cup half filled with orange broth to the right, a small jar labeled

This recipe keeps things straightforward with simple, soulful ingredients that work in harmony. Each element plays a key role, whether it’s bringing depth, subtle heat, or richness to the creamy texture and beautiful color of the finished black-eyed peas.

Olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing, though bacon grease or duck fat can amp up the Southern charm.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and body as it softens gently with the other vegetables.
Green bell pepper: Brings a subtle bitterness and crunch that balances the creamy peas.
Celery stalk: Gives that classic aromatic backbone and slight crunch to the mix.
Jalapeño: Delivers just the right touch of heat without overpowering the dish.
Garlic: Infuses deep savory notes that elevate every bite.
Bay leaves: Impart a delicate herbal flavor, making the broth more complex.
Creole Cajun Seasoning: The heart of flavor, mixing spices that celebrate Southern cooking.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a mild tanginess to round out the profile.
Smoked turkey wings or ham hocks: Essential for that irresistible smoky richness.
Dried black-eyed peas: The star of the show, optimized for creamy tenderness.
Low-sodium chicken stock: Creates the savory cooking liquid and adds flavor without excess salt.
Fresh chopped parsley: Optional bright garnish for a fresh finish.
Cooked white rice or cornbread: Perfect accouterments to scoop up the creamy goodness.

How to Make Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas (Instant Pot + Stovetop!) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your Instant Pot on “sauté” mode for about 7 minutes and adding your olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the yellow onion, green bell pepper, celery, and jalapeño. Stir frequently and let these vegetables soften and become aromatic—this builds a tasty foundation for your dish that will infuse every bite with delicious flavor.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic, cooking it just a minute so it releases its fragrance without burning. Then add the bay leaves and the Creole Cajun seasoning, which add layers of complexity and a bit of Southern soul. Don’t forget the worcestershire sauce—it’s small but mighty in upping the umami factor.

Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients and Cook

Now it’s time to bring in the star players. Add the smoked turkey wings, rinsed black-eyed peas, and chicken stock directly into your pot. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to “manual” or “pressure cook” for 35 minutes. Once done, allow it to depressurize naturally for about 7 to 10 minutes for perfectly tender peas and meat.

Step 4: Shred Meat and Mash Peas

Carefully remove the smoked turkey wings and set them aside to cool slightly. Back in the pot, give the peas a gentle mash—a few strokes with a potato masher will break them down just enough, releasing their starches and creating that signature creamy texture. Then, shred the meat off the bones and stir it back into the pot. Remove and discard the bay leaves.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Give your dish a final taste and add more Creole Cajun seasoning if you want to dial up the heat or spice. Your Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas (Instant Pot + Stovetop!) Recipe is now ready to bring comfort and joy to your table!

Stovetop Instructions

If you prefer the traditional stovetop approach, begin by soaking your peas overnight or use the quick soak method by boiling and resting them for 30-60 minutes. After draining, follow the same sauté and seasoning steps in a large dutch oven or stockpot. Simmer covered over medium heat for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally and adding stock or water as needed to keep the peas from sticking or drying out. Finish by shredding the meat and mashing some peas for that creamy consistency before seasoning to taste.

How to Serve Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas (Instant Pot + Stovetop!) Recipe

A close-up view of a thick stew inside a shiny metal pot with black handles on a white marbled surface. The stew is golden brown with black-eyed beans scattered throughout and small pieces of green and pink ingredients visible. A wooden spoon with a twisted handle is partially submerged in the stew, lifting some of the beans and liquid. The texture looks hearty and slightly chunky with a glossy finish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a lovely pop of green and a mild herbaceous freshness that cuts through the creamy richness beautifully. You might also like a dash of hot sauce or a few extra sprinkles of Creole seasoning for a flavor boost that’s entirely your own.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice or warm cornbread, both phenomenal for soaking up the delicious sauce. Add some collard greens or sautéed kale on the side to bring in a touch of brightness and traditional Southern flair that balances the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive presentation, serve your creamy black-eyed peas in a hollowed-out bread bowl or alongside crispy fried green tomatoes for a crunchy contrast. You can also top it with a soft-boiled egg for extra comfort or roll the peas into patties and pan-fry them for a delightful twist on leftovers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas (Instant Pot + Stovetop!) Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen with rest, making for even more delicious meals the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Just transfer cooled peas and meat into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It will keep well for 2 to 3 months and thaw quickly overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if the mixture seems too thick. Stir occasionally to maintain that wonderfully creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?

While canned peas save time, they won’t yield the same creamy texture you get from dried ones cooked slowly. If you’re pressed for time, canned is fine, but for true Southern creaminess, dried is best.

What if I don’t have smoked turkey wings?

Ham hocks or a smoked ham bone are excellent substitutes that add a similar smoky depth. If you prefer, smoked sausage or even smoked turkey legs can work well too.

Is it necessary to soak the peas for the stovetop method?

Yes, soaking helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility. Overnight soaking is ideal, but the quick soak method works well if you’re short on time.

How spicy is the dish with jalapeño and Creole seasoning?

The heat level is moderate and can be adjusted by using less jalapeño or seasoning. It’s meant to warm your palate without overwhelming it.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap smoked meat for smoked paprika or liquid smoke, add extra vegetables, and use vegetable stock for a vegetarian-friendly twist that still packs flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Southern Black-Eyed Peas (Instant Pot + Stovetop!) Recipe is a soul-satisfying dish that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of southern hospitality to your kitchen. Whether you choose the quick Instant Pot method or the comforting stovetop simmer, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that deserves a regular spot on your table. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and enjoy every creamy, smoky, spice-kissed bite!