How to Make Perfect Polenta

Creamy polenta is a perfect pairing for all kinds of meats, stews, and sauces. Learn how to make perfect polenta with Chef John's easy, cheesy recipe.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Italian Inspired
Calories: 291

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 cup polenta
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish

Method
 

  1. Gather all ingredients.
  2. Bring water and salt to a boil in a large saucepan; pour polenta slowly into boiling water, whisking constantly until there are no lumps.
  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer, whisking often, until polenta starts to thicken, about 5 minutes. Polenta mixture should still be slightly loose. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, whisking every 5 to 6 minutes. When polenta is too thick to whisk, stir with a wooden spoon. Polenta is done when texture is creamy and the individual grains are tender. Cooking time will depend on the polenta grind.
  4. Turn off heat and gently stir 2 tablespoons butter into polenta until butter partially melts; mix 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese into polenta until cheese has melted. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
  5. Stir polenta and transfer to a serving bowl. Top polenta with remaining 1 tablespoon butter and about 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for garnish.

Nutrition

Calories: 291kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 9gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 33mgSodium: 1186mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

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