Easy Italian Polenta Recipe
The possibilities are endless with this comforting, creamy, smooth, and sensational Italian polenta recipe. With only 5 ingredients and 10 minutes you will have the perfect side to any meal. Polenta is a true Italian speciality! Serve as a side or enjoy plain with added soft cheese of choice!
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 16 ounces quick cooking polenta 1 pound, (if you use coarse ground adjust liquid)
- 6 cups boiling water
- 1 tsp. sea salt
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or butter
- ½ cup parmigiano cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions
- Boil water with salt in a medium-large pot. Add polenta and stir vigorously. Stir on medium-high heat for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Turn to low heat and keep stirring for another minute or two.
- Take off the heat and add olive oil or butter, parmigiano, and heavy cream. Stir until combined and creamy texture.
- Sprinkle with extra cheese and enjoy plain or as a side dish.
Notes
- Stir constantly to prevent clumps—this is key! In Italy, polenta is traditionally stirred with a handmade wooden spoon.
- Like pasta, flavor starts with salted water. If using salted broth, reduce added salt.
- Grate your own cheese for the best flavor and melt. Add extra on top if you like!
- Polenta dries out fast, so serve it hot and keep it covered. To reheat, just add a splash of liquid and stir to bring back the creamy texture.
- Feel free to add in herbs, a bit of crushed red pepper, or change up the type of cheese for a different flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 316kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 344mg | Potassium: 98mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 389IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 1mg
