Side Dishes > Grain Dishes (Other) > Polenta Sides > Creamy Polenta Recipe

Creamy Parmesan Polenta

Indulge in the comforting embrace of Creamy Parmesan Polenta, a versatile side dish that elevates any meal. This recipe transforms humble cornmeal into a velvety, cheesy delight perfect for complementing roasted meats, vegetables, or enjoying on its own. This recipe will guide you through making a restaurant-worthy polenta at home, focusing on slow cooking and flavorful additions for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
45-50 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Polenta (coarse ground cornmeal)
  • 4 cups Water
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground

Prepare the Liquids

In a medium saucepan, combine the water and milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. This ensures the polenta cooks evenly and avoids sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Whisk in the Polenta

Slowly whisk in the polenta to the simmering liquid. Whisk continuously for the first few minutes to prevent lumps from forming. Once the polenta is incorporated, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 45-50 minutes, or until the polenta is very thick and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Achieve Creamy Consistency

The key to creamy polenta is patient stirring. The frequent stirring releases the starches in the cornmeal, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. If the polenta becomes too thick, add a little more water or milk to reach the desired consistency.

Add Butter and Cheese

Once the polenta is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. The butter adds richness and the Parmesan cheese provides a savory, umami flavor that complements the polenta perfectly.

Season and Serve

Season the polenta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot. Creamy Parmesan Polenta is delicious served as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for hearty stews.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 300mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used. Using low-fat milk or reducing the amount of butter and Parmesan cheese can lower the fat and calorie content. Polenta is naturally gluten-free.

← Creamy Baked Polenta with Parmesan and Herbs Garlic Parmesan Couscous →

FAQ

  • Can I use chicken broth instead of water?

    Yes, using chicken broth (low sodium) will add a richer flavor to the polenta. You can substitute all or part of the water with chicken broth.
  • Can I add other cheeses to the polenta?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyere, Asiago, or Fontina. Add them in the same way you would add the Parmesan cheese.
  • How can I store leftover polenta?

    Leftover polenta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little liquid (water or milk) to restore its creamy consistency. You can also spread the leftover polenta on a baking sheet, let it cool, and then cut it into squares or shapes for grilling or frying.