Cheesy Polenta Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy polenta is a creamy, comforting dish perfect as a side or a base for your favorite toppings. This recipe combines smooth polenta with rich cream cheese and Parmesan for a flavorful, velvety finish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Chicken Stock
- 2 cups Water
- 2 cups Polenta
- 125 grams Cream Cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 1 dash Salt
- 1 dash Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large saucepan, combine the chicken stock and water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, gradually whisk in the polenta to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, for about 10 minutes or until the polenta is soft and thickened.
- Step 2: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy cheesy polenta.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock or water.
- Add a handful of fresh herbs like chives or parsley to brighten the flavor.
- Use sharp Parmesan for a more pronounced cheesy taste.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a little butter along with the cheeses.
Storage
Store leftover cheesy polenta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water 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 instant polenta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant polenta, but reduce the cooking time according to the package instructions to avoid overcooking.
How do I prevent lumps when cooking polenta?
Whisk the polenta gradually into boiling liquid and stir continuously during cooking to keep the texture smooth.
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Cheesy Polenta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and comforting Cheesy Polenta recipe combines smooth polenta cooked in chicken stock and water with rich cream cheese and sharp Parmesan cheese, seasoned simply with salt and black pepper. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty base for your favorite toppings, this dish offers a luscious texture and rich flavor with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
Liquid Base
- 2 cups Chicken Stock
- 2 cups Water
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Polenta
- 125 grams Cream Cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
Seasoning
- 1 dash Salt
- 1 dash Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking liquid: In a large saucepan, combine the chicken stock and water. Turn the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring the liquid is hot and ready for the polenta.
- Cook the polenta: Once boiling, gradually whisk in the polenta to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce the heat to low and use a wooden spoon to stir continuously for about 10 minutes, or until the polenta becomes soft, creamy, and fully cooked.
- Add the cheeses and seasoning: Stir in the room temperature cream cheese along with the grated Parmesan cheese until both are fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich and creamy texture. Season the polenta with a dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then mix well.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the cheesy polenta immediately as a delightful side dish or a base for your preferred toppings. Enjoy the warm, silky goodness!
Notes
- Using room temperature cream cheese allows it to melt smoothly into the polenta without clumping.
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides better flavor and melting quality than pre-grated versions.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock.
- Polenta thickens as it cools; if reheating, add a splash of water or stock to loosen the texture.
- Serve with sautéed vegetables, grilled meats, or roasted mushrooms for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: cheesy polenta, creamy polenta, Italian side dish, quick polenta recipe, Parmesan polenta
