Creamy Polenta

Cornmeal and cheese create a creamy, savory bed for braised meat and vegetables. The ultimate Italian comfort food that provides restaurant-quality meals in minutes. Great for regular nights or special holidays!

Course Main, Side

Cuisine Italian

Diet Gluten Free

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Servings

Calories 373kcal

Author Imma

Equipment

1 Medium saucepan
1 Whisk

Ingredients

4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter (divided)
2 teaspoons (10g) minced garlic
1½ teaspoons (3g) minced thyme
2 cups (475ml) chicken stock (or substitute with water)
1 bay leaf
2 cups (475ml) whole milk
1 teaspoon (6g) salt (adjust to taste)
1 cup (140g) polenta or coarsely ground cornmeal
⅓ cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup (30g) grated smoked Gouda cheese (or more Parmesan)
pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add the garlic and thyme. Stir for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Pour in the stock, bay leaf, milk, and salt, and bring it to a boil.
As soon as it boils, slowly add the polenta in a steady stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cover.
Stir vigorously every 10 minutes or so, scraping the sides, bottom, and corners of the pan as you stir. Cook until the polenta thickens and is tender and creamy, about 25 minutes. Cook an extra 5 minutes for extra creamy polenta.
Add cheeses and the remaining butter, and stir well. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Remove from the heat and transfer to a serving bowl, and garnish with grated cheese, butter, and pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Notes

Out of chicken stock? Don't worry, you can swap it with water or use water and bouillon for flavor.
Other cheeses that go great in this recipe are sharp white cheddar cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, mascarpone, and goat cheese.
To make this creamy polenta recipe ahead of time, prepare it as per directions, then let it cool. Cover it and place it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Please remember that the nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on the products used in the recipe.

Nutrition