For a richer flavor, substitute chicken or vegetable broth for the boiling water. Experiment with different cheeses! Asiago, Gruyere, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious. Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the polenta while it simmers for an extra layer of flavor. If the polenta becomes too thick during cooking, add a little more hot water or broth to reach your desired consistency. When frying chilled polenta, cut into even slices and pan-fry in olive oil or butter until golden brown and crispy.
Basic Cheese Polenta
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PREP TIME4 hrs
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COOK TIME30 mins
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TOTAL TIME4 hrs 30 mins
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SERVING4 People
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VIEWS429
Embrace the rustic charm of homemade polenta! This creamy, cheesy delight is surprisingly simple to create from scratch, offering a versatile base for countless culinary adventures. Prepare it in advance and transform it into crispy fried slices or enjoy it immediately as a comforting alternative to mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate28 g
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Cholesterol18 mg
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Fiber1 g
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Protein10 g
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Saturated Fat4 g
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Sodium897 mg
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Sugar1 g
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Fat6 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
DIRECTIONS
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01 Step
Recipe View 5 mins In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, cold water, and salt until a smooth slurry forms. Set aside. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
02 Step
Recipe View 2 mins Bring the remaining 3 cups of water to a vigorous boil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring no lumps form. (Cook time: 2 minutes)
03 Step
Recipe View 1 mins Reduce the heat to the lowest possible simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly distributed. (Cook time: 1 minute)
04 Step
Recipe View 30 mins Continue to simmer the polenta, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the mixture is very thick and pulls away from the sides of the pan. (Cook time: 20-30 minutes)
05 Step
Recipe View 4 hrs For a chilled, sliceable polenta: Grease a loaf pan or baking dish. Pour the cooked polenta into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm. (Chill time: 4+ hours)
06 Step
Recipe View 0 mins For immediate serving: Serve the polenta hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or your favorite sauce.
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Priscilla Thompson
Jun 21, 2025This recipe is a game-changer! I've always been intimidated by making polenta from scratch, but this was so easy and the result was amazing.
Jaydon Mccullough
May 10, 2025My kids are obsessed with the fried polenta slices! It's a great way to use up leftovers.
Kara Krajcik
Jan 4, 2025I've made this recipe several times now, and it always turns out perfectly. It's a staple in our house.
Mozelle Murazik
Feb 16, 2024I added some roasted garlic to the polenta while it was simmering, and it was incredible!
Prince Koelpin
Dec 5, 2022I love the tip about using broth instead of water. It really elevates the flavor of the polenta.