Creamy Parmesan Polenta Recipe
A rich and creamy Parmesan polenta recipe, perfect as a comforting side dish. Made by cooking cornmeal in water or broth until smooth, then finished with butter and Parmesan cheese for a luscious texture and savory flavor.
- Author: Ria
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 4 cups water or broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Heat Liquid: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
- Add Cornmeal: Slowly whisk in 1 cup of cornmeal to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce heat to low.
- Cook Polenta: Stir continuously and cook the mixture gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the polenta thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and fully incorporated. Then, fold in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and blends into the polenta.
- Season and Serve: Taste for seasoning and add more salt if necessary. Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
- Continue stirring while cooking to prevent the polenta from sticking or forming lumps.
- Polenta thickens as it cools; add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen it.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor.
Keywords: Creamy Parmesan Polenta, Polenta side dish, Italian polenta recipe, Easy Parmesan polenta, Gluten free side