Creamy Garlic Polenta

Name: Creamy Garlic Polenta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup milk; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Soft Recipes

When I first made creamy garlic polenta, I was amazed at how comforting and satisfying it was. The smooth texture paired with the aromatic flavor of garlic instantly became a favorite in my home. I love how versatile this dish is; it can be served as a main course or a delightful side. It took me a few tries to perfect the creaminess and garlic infusion, but I'll share my secrets with you so you can enjoy a bowl of polenta packed with flavor and warmth in just 30 minutes.

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:57:36.235Z

During my culinary adventures, creamy garlic polenta caught my attention as the perfect cozy dish. I experimented with various methods and discovered that using a combination of broth and milk made all the difference in flavor and creaminess. The garlic aroma that fills the kitchen while cooking is simply irresistible.

While many think polenta is bland, I learned that the way you flavor it elevates the dish entirely. My trick is to sauté the garlic until fragrant before adding it to the polenta mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes your home smell delightful!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
The creamy texture that warms your soul
Rich, savory garlic flavor that enhances every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Art of Polenta

Polenta, made from ground cornmeal, is incredibly versatile and a perfect canvas for flavor. The key to achieving a creamy texture lies in the gradual addition of polenta into simmering liquid. If you pour it in too quickly, you risk clumping, which can lead to uneven cooking. Keep constant motion with your whisk as you incorporate the polenta into the broth; this will help achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency.

The choice of broth significantly affects the flavor profile of your polenta. If you prefer a richer taste, consider using homemade vegetable broth, or even chicken broth, if not adhering to a vegetarian diet. Alternatively, to enhance umami, you can add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste to the broth. This minor adjustment will deepen the flavor while maintaining the overall character of the dish.

Unlocking Creaminess

Incorporating milk towards the end of cooking is fundamental for achieving that rich, creamy finish. Whole milk will provide the best results, but you can substitute it with almond or oat milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Be sure to add it slowly while stirring to create a homogeneous mixture. This not only enriches the polenta but also balances the garlic's robust flavor, making every bite a delight.

Adding Parmesan cheese not only contributes to flavor but also gives the polenta a luxurious mouthfeel. When adding cheese, make sure it’s freshly grated, as pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melt quality. Stir in the cheese until it’s melted and evenly distributed, creating a glossy finish – this ensures a creamy texture and helps elevate the dish's savories.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the perfect creamy garlic polenta:

Ingredients

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients will create a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy garlic polenta:

Prepare the Broth

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.

Sauté Garlic

In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually whisk the polenta into the simmering broth, stirring constantly. Once incorporated, reduce the heat to low.

Cook the Polenta

Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the polenta thickens and is creamy.

Add Creaminess

Stir in the milk and sautéed garlic, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

Finish the Dish

Remove from heat, stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Your creamy garlic polenta is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic, or experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist!

Serving Suggestions

Creamy garlic polenta pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a hearty meal, try serving it under roasted vegetables or sautéed greens. Additionally, it makes an excellent base for proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even seared mushrooms for a vegetarian option. The creamy texture acts as a cushion that complements both light and rich toppings wonderfully.

For those looking to elevate the presentation, consider a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top just before serving. This adds not only visual appeal but also an extra layer of flavor that can enhance the overall experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning to prepare creamy garlic polenta in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator after it cools to room temperature. Polenta keeps well for up to three days. However, keep in mind that it will thicken as it cools. To reheat, add a splash of water or additional broth while gently stirring over low heat until creamy again.

If you wish to freeze the polenta, consider portioning it into individual servings. This allows for easy reheating later. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, using the same method of adding liquid to regain that luscious texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use water instead of broth?

While you can use water, using broth adds significantly more flavor to the polenta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little additional milk.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese.

→ What can I serve with polenta?

Creamy garlic polenta pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even a rich tomato sauce.