Cheddar Polenta

Indulge in the velvety comfort of Cheddar Polenta, a rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for elevating any meal. This easy-to-make recipe combines the hearty texture of coarse-ground polenta with the luscious creaminess of milk, butter, and melted sharp cheddar cheese for a flavor-packed experience. Simmered to perfection over low heat, this cozy dish delivers a smooth, cheesy consistency that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or savory stews. Finished with a hint of black pepper and optional fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, this versatile recipe is ready in just 35 minutes and is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Bring the warmth of classic comfort food to your table with this irresistible Cheddar Polenta recipe!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup polenta (coarse ground cornmeal)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water, 1 cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2

Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta, ensuring to stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low and cook the polenta, stirring frequently, for about 25-30 minutes, until it thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 4

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until fully incorporated.

Step 5

Add the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the polenta, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the polenta becomes creamy.

Step 6

Season with 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, or adjust to taste.

Step 7

Serve the polenta hot, with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley if desired for an added freshness and a pop of color.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1597.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1699.2

Total Fat 69.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 41.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 204.0mg	0%
Sodium 1441.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 214.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.1g	0%
Total Sugars 13.4g
Protein 56.5g	0%

Vitamin D 131.4IU	0%
Calcium 1190.3mg	0%
Iron 6.5mg	0%
Potassium 886.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.5%

Protein: 13.3%

Carbs: 50.3%