Creamy Spinach Polenta Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

This creamy spinach polenta is rich, silky, and bright with fresh greens. The polenta cooks into a velvety base, butter and cream make it lusciously smooth, and garlic plus Parmesan add a savory hug in every bite. It’s special because it feels restaurant-worthy but uses simple pantry items and fresh spinach for color and bite.

Top reasons to make this tonight: it’s fast to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and makes a comforting meal that still feels light. If you love family-friendly, fuss-free dinners, you might also enjoy these 20 easy ravioli recipes your family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 30 minutes for busy weeknights
• Made with pantry staples and fresh spinach
• Comforting and elegant enough for guests
• Easy to adapt to dietary needs

Ingredients

• 1 cup Polenta (coarse-ground cornmeal), Use coarse-ground polenta for the perfect creamy texture.
• 4 cups Water or Broth, Broth adds extra depth; use chicken or vegetable.
• 1 teaspoon Salt, Enhances natural flavors.
• 2 tablespoons Butter, Adds richness and silkiness.
• ½ cup Heavy Cream, Makes the polenta irresistibly smooth.
• ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese, For cheesy depth and a velvety texture.
• 5 ounces Fresh Spinach Leaves, Use fresh for vibrant color and tender bite.
• 2 cloves Garlic (Minced), adds fragrance.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil, For sautéing.

Step-by-Step Instructions of Creamy Spinach Polenta

1. Bring the water or broth and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until thick and creamy.
4. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Sauté the minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant; add the spinach and cook until just wilted.
6. Stir the butter and heavy cream into the polenta until melted and smooth.
7. Fold in the Parmesan cheese and season with a little extra salt and pepper to taste.
8. Spoon the creamy polenta into bowls and top with the wilted spinach and any pan juices.
9. Serve hot and enjoy a cozy, comforting bowl.

Tips for Success

• Stir the polenta often to keep it smooth and prevent sticking.
• Use broth instead of water for a deeper flavor.
• Grate fresh Parmesan for the best melt and taste.
• If polenta gets too thick, loosen with a splash of warm water or extra cream.

Substitutions & Variations of Creamy Spinach Polenta

To Make It Vegan/Gluten-Free:

• Use a plant-based butter and full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened soy cream instead of butter and heavy cream.
• Polenta is naturally gluten-free just ensure your cornmeal is labeled gluten-free if needed.

Variations:

• Stir in a spoonful of pesto for herb brightness.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra umami.
• Fold in white beans or shredded rotisserie chicken for protein.

Storage Instructions of Creamy Spinach Polenta

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream, stirring until smooth.

Freezer:

• Polenta can be frozen, but the texture may change. Freeze in a shallow airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with liquid.

Make-Ahead:

• Cook the polenta and prepare the spinach separately, then refrigerate. Reheat and combine when ready to serve for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Creamy Spinach Polenta

How do I stop polenta from clumping?

• Whisk well when adding polenta to boiling liquid and stir often while it cooks. Use medium-low heat.

Can I use instant polenta?

• Yes instant polenta shortens cook time. Follow package directions and adjust liquid to reach desired creaminess.

How do I make this richer or lighter?

• For richer polenta, add more butter or cream. For a lighter version, use less cream and replace butter with olive oil.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Spinach Polenta is an easy, comforting dish that feels special without a lot of work. It’s perfect for busy nights or a relaxed weekend meal, and it shows how a few simple ingredients can shine together. Try this recipe, leave a comment to tell me how it turned out, and don’t forget to give it a star rating if you enjoyed it your feedback helps others find this cozy favorite.

Creamy Spinach Polenta

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

This creamy spinach polenta is rich, silky, and bright with fresh greens, perfect for a cozy dinner.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup Polenta (coarse-ground cornmeal)
• 4 cups Water or Broth
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Butter
• ½ cup Heavy Cream
• ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 5 ounces Fresh Spinach Leaves
• 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Bring the water or broth and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until thick and creamy.
4. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Sauté the minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant; add the spinach and cook until just wilted.
6. Stir the butter and heavy cream into the polenta until melted and smooth.
7. Fold in the Parmesan cheese and season with a little extra salt and pepper to taste.
8. Spoon the creamy polenta into bowls and top with the wilted spinach and any pan juices.
9. Serve hot and enjoy a cozy, comforting bowl.

Notes

Stir the polenta often to keep it smooth and prevent sticking. Use broth instead of water for a deeper flavor.

• Author: soukaina
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian