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Creamy Pumpkin Polenta Recipe

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4.8 from 99 reviews

This creamy pumpkin polenta combines smooth polenta with rich pumpkin puree and parmesan cheese for a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for fall or any time you crave a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Polenta Base

  • 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Creamy Pumpkin Mixture

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Water: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil with 1 teaspoon of salt to flavor the polenta.
  2. Cook the Polenta: Gradually whisk in the polenta to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook the polenta, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon or whisk to prevent sticking, for about 25-30 minutes until thickened and creamy.
  3. Incorporate Pumpkin Puree: Stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree into the polenta and continue to cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to become smooth.
  4. Add Cream and Parmesan: Mix in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the polenta is luxuriously creamy.
  5. Optional Butter Addition: For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until melted and evenly distributed.
  6. Serve Warm: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the creamy pumpkin polenta hot as a comforting side dish or a hearty base for proteins or vegetables.

Notes

  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Use fresh pumpkin puree by roasting and mashing pumpkin if preferred over canned.
  • For a dairy-free alternative, replace cream with coconut milk and parmesan with nutritional yeast.
  • Polenta thickens as it cools; add a splash of warm water or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.
  • Adding fresh herbs like sage or thyme can enhance the flavor profile.

Keywords: pumpkin polenta, creamy polenta, fall side dish, pumpkin puree recipe, parmesan polenta

Find it online: https://dylangranv.com/creamy-pumpkin-polenta-recipe/