How to Make Polenta: Easy and Quick Creamy Polenta
A smooth and creamy polenta made with Parmesan, butter, and cream for a rich and comforting side dish. This quick recipe is perfect for pairing with vegetables, meats, or sauces.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
- 4 1/2 cups chicken stock, or water
- 1 cup instant polenta
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Pour chicken stock into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium and slowly add instant polenta and salt, whisking constantly.
- Continue whisking until the polenta thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until fully melted and combined.
- Taste and adjust consistency with additional cream if needed.
- Serve immediately while hot and smooth.
Notes
- Use all chicken stock for a richer flavor or water for a lighter base.
- Add extra Parmesan for a stronger cheese taste.
- Stir in more cream at the end for a softer texture.
- Top with roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or tomato sauce for variation.
- Reheat with a splash of liquid to restore creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
