Creamy Cheesy Polenta with Fresh Herb Garnish Recipe
Introduction
This creamy cheesy polenta is a comforting and versatile dish perfect as a side or a base for your favorite toppings. With a smooth texture and rich flavor from Parmesan and butter, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
- 3 1/2 cups chicken or veggie stock
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, or cheese of choice
- 3 tbsp butter, more if desired
- Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, cilantro, or dill for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring the stock and sea salt to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce the heat and slowly whisk in the cornmeal to prevent clumping. Continue whisking gently and cook for 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the coarseness of your cornmeal. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and be cautious as the mixture may sputter.
- Step 2: Once the polenta has thickened, stir in the whole milk. Turn off the heat, then add the shredded cheese and butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Spoon the polenta into individual serving bowls. Garnish with finely minced fresh herbs of your choice. Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock or add a splash of cream instead of milk.
- Try mixing in different cheeses like Gruyere or sharp cheddar for a new twist.
- Serve topped with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a drizzle of truffle oil for extra indulgence.
Storage
Store leftover polenta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or stock and warm gently on the stove, stirring to restore creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use water instead of stock?
Yes, you can use water, but using stock adds more depth and flavor to the polenta.
How do I know when polenta is done cooking?
The polenta is ready when it has thickened to a creamy consistency and no longer tastes grainy. This usually takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on the cornmeal texture.
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Creamy Cheesy Polenta with Fresh Herb Garnish Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy cheesy polenta recipe offers a comforting and velvety dish made from yellow cornmeal simmered in flavorful stock, enriched with whole milk, butter, and freshly shredded Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side or a base for various toppings, this polenta is garnished with fresh herbs for a bright and fresh finish.
Ingredients
Polenta Base
- 1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
- 3 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 tsp sea salt
Enrichment
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 3 tbsp butter, more if desired
Garnish
- Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, cilantro, or dill, finely minced
Instructions
- Heat the Stock and Salt: In a saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable stock and sea salt to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Cornmeal Slowly: Lower the heat to a simmer and slowly whisk in the yellow cornmeal to avoid clumping, continuing to whisk gently throughout.
- Cook Polenta: Stir frequently to prevent sticking and cook the polenta for about 10 to 30 minutes depending on the grind of the cornmeal; finer grinds cook faster whereas coarser grinds take longer. Be cautious as it may sputter while cooking.
- Add Milk and Remove from Heat: Once the polenta is thick and creamy, stir in 1/2 cup of whole milk, then turn off the heat.
- Stir in Cheese and Butter: Add the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and butter to the polenta and stir until smooth and fully combined.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the creamy polenta into individual serving bowls and garnish with minced fresh herbs of your choice. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use finer cornmeal for quicker cooking, coarser for a more textured polenta.
- Vegetable stock can make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat milk and unsalted butter and adjust salt accordingly.
- Fresh herbs can be varied based on preference for different flavor profiles.
- Polenta can be served soft or allowed to set and then sliced and grilled or fried for another texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: creamy polenta, cheesy polenta, parmesan polenta, Italian side dish, easy polenta recipe
