What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This creamy, comforting polenta is a breeze to make and tastes like a warm hug in a bowl. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up with just a few pantry staples.
- Versatile & Customizable – Top it with cheese, herbs, or your favorite sauce for endless flavor twists.
- Budget-Friendly – Cornmeal is affordable, making this dish easy on your wallet.
- Perfect Texture – Smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of hearty for any meal.
Recipe
Polenta is a versatile Italian dish made from cornmeal, perfect as a creamy side or a firm base for toppings. This simple homemade version delivers rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup coarse cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt.
- Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 30–40 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and Parmesan (if using).
- Serve immediately for soft polenta or pour into a greased dish to cool and set for firmer slices.
Notes:
- Stirring frequently prevents sticking and guarantees a smooth texture.
- For extra flavor, substitute water with broth or milk.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Whisk or wooden spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 4
Nutrition
Homemade polenta is a nutritious dish made from simple ingredients. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 165 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 31 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love finding the perfect pairings for polenta, and classic options like hearty stews or roasted veggies are always a win. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll try creative combinations, like topping it with sautéed mushrooms or a fried egg. Trust me, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it—just go with your favorite flavors!
Classic Pairings
Though polenta’s creamy texture might seem simple, it’s incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with so many dishes. I love serving it with rich, slow-cooked stews like beef bourguignon or hearty tomato-based ragù—the polenta soaks up all the delicious juices. Braised short ribs or roasted chicken are also perfect companions, adding a savory contrast to its mild flavor. For a vegetarian twist, I often top it with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grilled sausages or crispy Italian meatballs are my go-to for a comforting meal. Don’t forget Parmesan cheese—it adds a salty, nutty finish that ties it all together.
Creative Combinations
Experimenting with polenta opens up a world of fun, unexpected pairings that’ll make your meals anything but boring. I love topping creamy polenta with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a drizzle of truffle oil for a rich, earthy flavor. For something lighter, roasted veggies like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus work beautifully. Polenta also pairs surprisingly well with bold flavors—try spicy sausage, a tangy BBQ sauce, or even shrimp scampi. Don’t forget breakfast! A soft-poached egg and crispy bacon on polenta is a game-changer. Polenta’s versatility means you can mix and match endlessly—it’s like a blank canvas for creativity.
