18 Italian Basic Polenta Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!

Published on: Mar 16, 2024

Polenta is a staple in Italian cuisine that has been enjoyed for centuries. This simple yet versatile dish is made from cornmeal and can be served as a creamy porridge or as a solid cake. In this article, we will share with you an authentic Italian basic polenta recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and comforting dish that will transport you to the charming streets of Italy.

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Polenta Pasticciata, A “Messed Up” Polenta

Main Ingredients: Water, Sea Salt, Polenta, Gruyere, Gorgonzola Dolce

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If you're a fan of traditional Italian dishes, you've probably heard of polenta. But have you ever tried polenta pasticciata? This unique twist on classic polenta takes the dish to a whole new level. It's essentially a "messed up" version of polenta, with layers of creamy polenta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese. It's comfort food at its finest and perfect for a cozy night in.

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Basic Cannoli

Main Ingredients: Part Skim Ricotta Cheese, Confectioners Sugar, Vanilla

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No Italian feast is complete without some delicious cannolis for dessert. These crisp pastry shells are filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta cheese filling and can be flavored with a variety of ingredients, such as chocolate chips, pistachios, or citrus zest. They are a staple of Italian bakeries and now you can make them at home with this basic cannoli recipe.

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Basic Polenta

Main Ingredients: Water, Salt, Polenta

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As mentioned before, polenta is a staple in Italian cuisine. This versatile dish can be served as a creamy porridge or left to set and then sliced and grilled. It's a delicious accompaniment to many main dishes, such as grilled meats or roasted vegetables. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make. All you need is some water, cornmeal, and a little bit of patience.

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Italian Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Milk, White Bread, Ricotta

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Meatballs are a classic Italian comfort food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They can be served as an appetizer, on top of a bed of pasta, or even in a sub sandwich. This recipe uses a combination of ground beef and pork for a flavorful and tender meatball. And don't forget to top them with some freshly grated parmesan cheese!

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Italian Meatballs {Great Big Italian Meatballs}

Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Egg, Fresh Bread Crumbs

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If you're looking for a meatball that's a little heartier, these great big Italian meatballs are for you. These oversized meatballs are made with a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal, and are seasoned with traditional Italian herbs and spices. They are perfect for topping a big bowl of spaghetti or for stuffing into a sub sandwich.

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Classic Italian Wedding Soup

Main Ingredients: Ground Chicken, Sausage Casings, Bread Crumbs, Egg

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Despite its name, Italian wedding soup has nothing to do with weddings. It's a comforting soup that is typically served at Italian family gatherings, hence the name. The soup is made with a flavorful broth, small meatballs, and delicate pasta, such as orzo or acini di pepe. It's the perfect soup for a cold winter night.

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Basic Polenta (Soft or Set)

Main Ingredients: Cold Water, Coarse Salt, Bay Leaf, Polenta Meal

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If you're looking for a basic polenta recipe that can be served either soft or set, this is the recipe for you. By adjusting the amount of water and cooking time, you can achieve a creamy, porridge-like consistency or a firm, sliceable polenta. It's a great base for a variety of dishes and perfect for experimenting with different flavors.

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Keto Stuffed Peppers – Italian Style

Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Olive Oil, Bell Peppers, Onion

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For those following a keto diet, it can be challenging to find Italian recipes that fit within the guidelines. But these keto stuffed peppers are a perfect option. The filling is made with ground turkey, Italian seasoning, and plenty of cheese. And to keep it low-carb, the peppers are stuffed with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.

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Italian Venison Stew With Polenta – Capriolo Alla...

Main Ingredients: Venison Roast, Red Wine, Garlic, Pepper, Pork Bacon

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ITALIAN OCTOPUS STEW (polpo alla luciana) - philosokitchen

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If you're a fan of game meat, this Italian venison stew is a must-try. The rich and hearty stew is made with chunks of tender venison, vegetables, and a flavorful red wine sauce. And to make it a complete meal, serve it over a bed of creamy polenta. It's a dish that will impress any dinner guests.

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Italian Baked Polenta

Main Ingredients: Polenta, Vegetable Broth, Soy Milk, Parmesan Cheese

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If you're looking for a unique side dish to accompany your main course, try this Italian baked polenta. The polenta is baked in a casserole dish with a layer of marinara sauce and a generous amount of parmesan cheese on top. It's a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes and is sure to please your taste buds.

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Authentic Italian Braciole

Main Ingredients: Beef, Salt, Pepper, Grated Parmesan, Provolone, Italian

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Braciole, also known as involtini, is a classic Italian dish of thinly sliced meat rolled around a filling and cooked in a flavorful sauce. This authentic Italian braciole is made with thin slices of beef, stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, and then simmered in a tomato-based sauce. It's a true taste of Italy.

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Homemade Italian Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Italian Bread, Grated Romano Cheese, Garlic, Fresh

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Forget store-bought frozen meatballs, these homemade Italian meatballs are so much better. Made with a combination of beef, pork, and veal, these meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for topping a big bowl of spaghetti. And with just a few simple ingredients, they're surprisingly easy to make.

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Italian Almond Paste Cookies

Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Almond Paste, Granulated Sugar, Salt

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For all the almond lovers out there, these Italian almond paste cookies are a must-try. Made with ground almonds, egg whites, and sugar, these cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with almond flavor. They are a delicious addition to any holiday cookie platter.

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Italian Pasta Salad

Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Cucumber, Cherry, Crumbled Feta Cheese

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Pasta salad is a staple at summer picnics and gatherings, and this Italian version is sure to be a hit. It's made with a variety of colorful vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives, and tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. It's a refreshing and light dish that pairs well with grilled meats.

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Creamy Italian Ravioli

Main Ingredients: Ravioli, Fresh Baby Spinach, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Heavy

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Ravioli is a classic Italian dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or vegetables. This creamy Italian ravioli recipe features a rich and flavorful filling of ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and spinach, all coated in a creamy tomato sauce. It's a comforting and indulgent dish that is perfect for a special occasion.

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Italian Crescent Casserole

Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Prepared Pasta Sauce, Refrigerated

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If you're in need of a quick and easy weeknight meal, look no further than this Italian crescent casserole. It's made with layers of crescent roll dough, creamy ricotta cheese, savory Italian sausage, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and can be on the table in less than 30 minutes.

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Keto Italian Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Garlic, 85 Lean Ground Beef, Large Eggs, Almond Flour

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Another great option for those following a keto diet, these Italian meatballs are made with a combination of ground beef and pork rinds for a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional breadcrumbs. They are seasoned with classic Italian herbs and spices and are perfect for topping zucchini noodles or served alongside a salad.

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Italian Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms

Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Cremini Mushrooms, Cream

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If you're a fan of stuffed mushrooms, you have to try this Italian twist on the classic appetizer. These mushrooms are stuffed with a mixture of Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese, and baked until golden and crispy. They are a delicious addition to any party or gathering.

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Quick and Easy Italian Meatballs

Main Ingredients: 85 Lean Ground Beef, Garlic, Large Eggs, Dried

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For a busy weeknight, these quick and easy Italian meatballs are a lifesaver. Made with just a handful of ingredients, including frozen meatballs and jarred marinara sauce, these meatballs come together in no time. Serve them over pasta or in a sub sandwich for a satisfying and effortless meal.

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Sheet Pan Italian Chicken Dinner

Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, Extra Virgin Olive

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Sheet pan dinners are all the rage these days, and this Italian version is sure to become a favorite in your household. It's made with chicken breasts, potatoes, and green beans, all tossed in a flavorful Italian dressing and baked until tender and golden. It's a complete meal that requires minimal prep and clean-up.

Ingredients for Basic Polenta

1. Cornmeal

Cornmeal is the key ingredient in making polenta. It is a coarse flour made from dried corn kernels, and it comes in various grinds, from fine to coarse. For this recipe, we recommend using medium-grind or coarse-grind cornmeal for a heartier texture.

2. Water or Broth

Water is the most common liquid used in making polenta, but for added flavor, you can use broth instead. Chicken or vegetable broth will add a depth of flavor to your polenta, making it even more delicious.

3. Butter

A small amount of butter adds richness and a velvety texture to your polenta. You can use either salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference.

4. Salt and Pepper

The seasonings for polenta are simple but essential. Salt brings out the natural flavors of the cornmeal, while pepper adds a hint of spice. You can adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking.

Instructions

1. Bring the Liquid to a Boil

In a large saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil over high heat. For every cup of cornmeal, you will need four cups of liquid.

2. Slowly Add the Cornmeal

Once the liquid is boiling, gradually add the cornmeal while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

3. Reduce the Heat and Simmer

Once all the cornmeal has been added, reduce the heat to medium or low. Use a wooden spoon to stir the polenta every few minutes to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

4. Cook Until Thickened

The polenta will take about 30-40 minutes to cook, depending on the grind of the cornmeal. Stir occasionally and cook until the polenta is thick and creamy.

5. Add Butter, Salt, and Pepper

Once the polenta is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Polenta can be served hot or at room temperature. It is a versatile dish that can be topped with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or vegetables. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course for a comforting and hearty meal. With this basic polenta recipe, you can create a delicious and authentic Italian dish right in your own kitchen. So grab your ingredients and get cooking, and savor the warm and comforting flavors of Italy.