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This Creamy Cheddar Polenta is a rich and buttery Italian-inspired comfort food made with chicken broth, yellow cornmeal, butter, and sharp cheddar cheese. Smooth, velvety, and packed with savory flavor, it's the perfect side dish for roasted meats, grilled chicken, steak, seafood, or vegetables. An easy 20-minute recipe that's both budget-friendly and restaurant-worthy.

Creamy Cheddar Polenta

This Creamy Cheddar Polenta is a rich and buttery Italian-inspired comfort food made with chicken broth, yellow cornmeal, butter, and sharp cheddar cheese. Smooth, velvety, and packed with savory flavor, it's the perfect side dish for roasted meats, grilled chicken, steak, seafood, or vegetables. An easy 20-minute recipe that's both budget-friendly and restaurant-worthy.
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cheese grater
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Bring broth to a gentle boil.
  2. Slowly whisk in cornmeal.
  3. Reduce heat and cook 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Stir in butter until melted.
  5. Fold in cheddar cheese until creamy.
  6. Taste and season if needed.
  7. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Freshly grated cheese melts best.
Add extra broth when reheating.
Naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free cornmeal.
Delicious topped with extra butter, Parmesan, herbs, or roasted mushrooms.