Creamy Polenta with Mushrooms

Name: Creamy Polenta with Mushrooms
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 cups assorted mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, button), sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Collection

I love making creamy polenta with mushrooms because it's the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. The smooth, velvety texture of polenta pairs wonderfully with earthy mushrooms, creating a dish that's rich in flavor and satisfying. I often whip this up as a cozy side for dinner or as a main dish for a casual lunch. It’s simple yet absolutely delicious—each bite is a warm hug that transports you to a rustic Italian kitchen.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:41:34.999Z

When I first tried making creamy polenta, I was amazed at how straightforward and quick it was to prepare. The method is key: stirring continuously helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency without lumps. Recently, I experimented with various mushrooms—shiitake, cremini, and button—each bringing a unique flavor profile that elevated the dish.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it as a bed for grilled meats, sautéed vegetables, or even on its own, topped with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs. The addition of parmesan cheese not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Earthy mushroom flavor adds depth and richness
Versatile dish perfect for any meal of the day

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful dish:

For the Polenta

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Mushroom Topping

2 cups assorted mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, button), sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

With everything prepared, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your creamy polenta:

Prepare the Polenta

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring often, for about 30 minutes or until thickened. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, mixing until creamy.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the mushrooms and thyme, cooking for about 8-10 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Spoon the creamy polenta onto plates and top with the sautéed mushrooms. Drizzle with additional olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Now, enjoy the creamy goodness of your polenta dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider topping with chili flakes or serving with a side of sautéed greens.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, but using broth adds more flavor to the polenta.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

A mix of shiitake, cremini, and button mushrooms offers a great flavor combination.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese, using nutritional yeast for flavor.

→ Can I prepare the polenta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the polenta in advance. Reheat it with a splash of broth or water to regain creaminess.