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
Scale
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
