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Creamy Parmesan Polenta

Creamy Parmesan Polenta: Your New Go-To Comfort Food

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  • Author: Ruthie Miller
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Welcome, fellow food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug and as elegant as a gourmet meal: Creamy Parmesan Polenta. This versatile and ridiculously delicious recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a culinary canvas ready for your favorite additions, guaranteeing to become a staple in your kitchen. If you’re looking for an incredibly satisfying, rich, and flavorful meal that’s surprisingly simple to make, you’ve found it. Our Creamy Parmesan Polenta delivers on all fronts, promising a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every spoonful. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) fine or medium-grain cornmeal (polenta)
  • 4 cups (960ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: A pinch of nutmeg
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. **Prepare Your Liquids:** In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the chicken or vegetable broth and whole milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
  2. **Add the Polenta:** Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. While continuously whisking vigorously with one hand, slowly pour the cornmeal into the liquid in a thin, steady stream with the other hand. Continue whisking for about 2-3 minutes until all the cornmeal is thoroughly incorporated.
  3. **Simmer and Stir:** Switch to a sturdy wooden spoon. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring frequently (scraping bottom and sides), for approximately 25-35 minutes until the polenta is thick and creamy and the cornmeal is tender.
  4. **Check for Doneness:** Taste a small amount. It should be tender and not gritty. If still grainy, continue cooking and stirring, adding a splash more broth or milk if too thick.
  5. **Finish with Flavor:** Remove from heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, unsalted butter, salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg. Stir vigorously until cheese and butter are fully melted and incorporated.
  6. **Serve Immediately:** Serve hot. If it becomes too thick before serving, stir in a little warm broth or milk to loosen it up. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Choose fine or medium-grain polenta for the best texture, avoid instant. Constant stirring is key to prevent lumps and sticking. Adjust seasonings to your preference based on broth and cheese saltiness.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish, Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian, Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 cup)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Find it online: https://www.oldplainrecipes.com/creamy-parmesan-polenta/