A classic Italian dish from Giada De Laurentiis is this Cheesy Polenta, easy to make and very tasty using cornmeal, Parmesan cheese, butter, and whole milk.

To make Giada’s Cheesy Polenta, start by boiling water and gradually whisk in cornmeal. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, then mix in cheese, butter, and milk. It’s creamy and cheesy, and perfect for any meal!

So, if you’re ready to dive into cheesy goodness, give this polenta a try! Comment below and let me know if you think it’s as delicious as it sounds. I bet you can’t wait to dig in!

Giada De Laurentiis Cheesy Polenta Ingredients

• 9 cups of water
• 1 tablespoon of salt, plus extra for seasoning
• 2 1/2 cups of yellow cornmeal or polenta
• 1 1/2 cups of freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 1/2 cups of whole milk, at room temperature
• 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/3 cup of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How To Make Giada De Laurentiis Cheesy Polenta

1. Boil the Water: Bring 9 cups of water to a boil in a large, heavy pot. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water.
2. Add the Cornmeal: Gradually whisk in 2 1/2 cups of yellow cornmeal or polenta. Whisk slowly to avoid lumps.
3. Reduce the Heat: Lower the heat to low. Cook the mixture, stirring often, until it thickens and the cornmeal is tender. This should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Remove from Heat: Take the pot off the heat once the cornmeal is cooked.
5. Add the Cheese: Stir in 1 1/2 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until it’s fully melted and blended.
6. Add the Milk and Butter: Pour in 1 1/2 cups of room-temperature whole milk. Add 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and cut into pieces. Stir until the butter melts completely.
7. Season and Add Parsley: Mix in 1/3 cup of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley. Season with extra salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Transfer the polenta to a serving bowl. Serve hot and enjoy!

What should I do if my polenta is too thick?

If your polenta turns out too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Stir well until it reaches your desired consistency. This trick helps rescue any polenta that’s gotten a bit too firm.

Recipe Tips

• Perfect Creaminess: For the best texture, make sure to stir the polenta constantly as it cooks. This keeps it smooth and prevents lumps, which can be as unwanted as a surprise in your salad.
• Consistent Temperature: Keep the heat low while simmering the polenta. Cooking it slowly helps it achieve that creamy, luxurious texture without turning into a thick brick that will need a jackhammer to get through.
• Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages and taste as you go. It’s easier to adjust seasoning bit by bit rather than trying to fix an over-seasoned mess, which is as tricky as fixing a broken TV remote.
• Stir in Extras: If you want extra flavor, try stirring in herbs or spices at the end of cooking. This way, your polenta will have a delightful surprise for your taste buds that makes it feel like a gourmet dish.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Delight: For an extra cheesy twist, mix in a blend of cheeses like cheddar or gouda along with the Parmesan. This adds layers of flavor that can make your taste buds do a happy dance.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in cooked vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers for a nutritional boost. It turns your polenta into a hearty meal that’s as colorful as a rainbow and just as cheerful.
• Meaty Additions: Top your polenta with sautéed mushrooms or crumbled sausage for added protein. This makes the dish more filling and perfect for a hearty meal that can satisfy even the hungriest of guests.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. It’ll give your polenta a kick that’s hotter than your last vacation to the beach!

What To Serve With Cheesy Polenta

Serve your Cheesy Polenta with a fresh tomato basil salad, a side of grilled vegetables, and Asparagus Lasagna. Pair it with a hearty roasted chicken or sauteed mushrooms.

You can also enjoy it alongside Mozzarella Cheese Sticks or creamy spinach for extra flavor and texture.

How To Store Leftover Cheesy Polenta

In The Fridge:

Let the polenta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent it from drying out, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the container.

In The Freezer:

Cheesy polenta can be frozen. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should be used within 2 months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Cheesy Polenta

Reheat your leftover Cheesy Polenta by placing it in a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick. Heat until it reaches your desired temperature and consistency.

Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.

Check out More Giada Recipes:

• Giada De Laurentiis Bechamel Sauce
• Giada Butternut Squash Lasagna
• Giada De Laurentiis Chicken Vesuvio