Creamy Parmesan Polenta with Thyme. https://littleferrarokitchen.com/creamy-parmesan-polenta/

Creamy Parmesan Polenta with Thyme. https://littleferrarokitchen.com/creamy-parmesan-polenta/ is a easy Italian recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Samantha Ferraro on YouTube.

Prep: 7 min | Cook: 29 min | Total: 44 min

Cost: $4.60 total, $1.15 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra-virgin, for sautéing)
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes)
  • 1 small Shallot (finely chopped (about 2 tbsp))
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 4 cups Chicken Stock (low-sodium; can use vegetable stock for vegetarian version)
  • 1 cup Polenta (coarse cornmeal, medium grind)
  • 0.5 cup Parmigiano Reggiano (freshly grated)
  • 0.25 cup Heavy Cream (chilled)
  • to taste Salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

  1. Melt Oil and Butter

    Place the saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is shimmering.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium

  2. Sauté Shallots and Garlic

    Add the chopped shallot and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until they become lightly golden and translucent.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: medium

  3. Add Stock and Bring to a Boil

    Pour in the 4 cups of stock, increase the heat, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: high

  4. Whisk in Polenta

    Gradually sprinkle the 1 cup of polenta into the boiling stock while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium‑high

  5. Simmer Until Thickened

    Reduce the heat to low and let the polenta simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: low

  6. Finish with Cheese and Cream

    Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and the heavy cream until fully incorporated and the polenta is glossy.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Season and Serve

    Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spoon the creamy polenta onto plates and serve immediately.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
6 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 19, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Creamy Parmesan Polenta with Thyme. https://littleferrarokitchen.com/creamy-parmesan-polenta/

Recipe by Samantha Ferraro

A rich and silky Italian side dish made with polenta, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Perfectly creamy, it pairs beautifully with sautéed vegetables or roasted meats.

EasyItalianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
6m
Prep
23m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
39m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.60
Total cost
$1.15
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Whisk the polenta continuously while adding it to the boiling stock to avoid lumps.
  • Add the heavy cream off the heat to prevent curdling.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot stock can cause severe burns; handle the pot with oven mitts.
  • Be careful when whisking near the boiling liquid to avoid splatter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of creamy polenta in Italian cuisine?

A

Polenta has been a staple in Northern Italy for centuries, originally a peasant food made from coarse cornmeal. Over time, it evolved into a versatile side dish, and adding butter, cheese, and cream creates the rich version enjoyed today.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of polenta in Northern Italy?

A

In the Veneto and Lombardy regions, polenta is often served soft with butter and cheese, while in Trentino‑Alto Adige it may be baked or grilled. Some areas add herbs, mushrooms, or sausage for heartier versions.

cultural
Q

How is creamy polenta traditionally served in Italian households?

A

It is typically spooned onto a plate or shallow bowl and served alongside braised meats, roasted chicken, or sautéed greens. In some families, it is cooled, sliced, and then fried for a crispy texture.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is creamy polenta associated with in Italian culture?

A

Polenta appears at everyday family meals but also at festive gatherings such as harvest festivals and holiday feasts, especially when paired with rich meat dishes.

cultural
Q

What other Italian dishes pair well with creamy polenta?

A

Creamy polenta complements braised short ribs, osso buco, roasted chicken thighs, sautéed broccoli rabe, and mushroom ragù, providing a comforting base for savory sauces.

cultural
Q

What makes creamy polenta special or unique in Italian cuisine?

A

The combination of cornmeal’s earthy texture with butter, Parmesan, and heavy cream creates a velvety mouthfeel that is both rustic and luxurious, showcasing the Italian skill of turning simple ingredients into a refined side.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making creamy polenta?

A

Common errors include adding the polenta to cold liquid, not whisking continuously, and cooking it at too high a heat, which can cause lumps or a gritty texture.

technical
Q

Why does this creamy polenta recipe use heavy cream instead of milk?

A

Heavy cream adds a higher fat content, giving the polenta its signature silkiness and richer flavor that milk alone cannot achieve.

technical
Q

Can I make creamy polenta ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of stock or water to restore its creamy consistency.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Samantha Ferraro specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Samantha Ferraro focuses on approachable home‑cooking tutorials, emphasizing comfort food classics, quick weeknight meals, and step‑by‑step techniques for home cooks of all skill levels.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Samantha Ferraro's approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?

A

Samantha Ferraro blends traditional Italian flavors with modern, time‑saving shortcuts, often using pantry staples and clear visual cues, making classic dishes like creamy polenta accessible without sacrificing authenticity.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Creamy Parmesan and Mascarpone Risotto
33

Creamy Parmesan and Mascarpone Risotto

A classic Italian risotto, quick and economical, prepared in a single pot. Arborio rice becomes creamy thanks to the gradual addition of broth, a splash of white wine and a touch of mascarpone, then is lifted with parmesan and a drizzle of lime juice for an unexpected freshness. Ideal for a convivial weekday dinner.

45 minServes 4$8
Italian
How to make Creamy Parmesan Polenta
5

How to make Creamy Parmesan Polenta

A rich, buttery polenta made with flavorful stock, slow‑whisked cornmeal, and finished with Parmesan cheese. This side dish is creamy, cheesy, and can be adapted dairy‑free with olive oil.

1 hr 5 minServes 4$4
Italian
Creamy Parmesan Polenta
3

Creamy Parmesan Polenta

A rich, velvety Italian polenta made with milk, heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a base for hearty toppings.

60 minServes 4$8
Italian
Creamy Parmesan Polenta
3

Creamy Parmesan Polenta

A silky, buttery Parmesan polenta that pairs perfectly with braised short ribs. This quick‑and‑easy Italian‑style side is made with water, cream, broth, and plenty of cheese for a rich, comforting finish.

45 minServes 4$3
Italian
Creamy Parmesan Polenta
3

Creamy Parmesan Polenta

A rich, creamy Parmesan polenta made with fine cornmeal, chicken stock, butter, whole milk, and plenty of grated Parmesan. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main.

35 minServes 4$6
Italian
CREAMY POLENTA WITH PARMESAN CHEESE
3

CREAMY POLENTA WITH PARMESAN CHEESE

A rich, buttery polenta cooked with garlic powder, cream, and plenty of Parmesan. This easy Italian-inspired side dish is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for any main course. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

40 minServes 4$7
Italian