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Creamy Pumpkin Polenta

Creamy Pumpkin Polenta: Cozy Comfort for Fall Evenings

Delight in this creamy pumpkin polenta, a gluten-free dish that encapsulates the flavors of fall with a cozy twist.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Polenta
  • 1 cup Cornmeal Polenta Finely ground yellow cornmeal for best results.
  • 4 cups Low-Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Stock Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Divide into two parts for different stages of cooking.
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Purée (Canned) Fresh pumpkin can be used if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Add more when serving for extra flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Essential for creamy texture.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the ingredients together.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary, Sage, or Thyme Mixing herbs is encouraged.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper For seasoning.
For the Topping
  • 4 ounces Diced Pancetta Bacon can be a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Neutral Oil Canola or vegetable oil works well.
  • 2 cups Swiss Chard Swap with spinach or kale if preferred.
  • 1 medium Shallot Yellow onion can work in a pinch.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Juiced Lemon Balances richness.
  • 1/4 cup Heavy Cream Optional for extra creaminess.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine cornmeal, stock, and half the salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce to low and stir until thickened, about 20 minutes.
  2. Once thick, add pumpkin purée, Parmesan, butter, egg, herbs, remaining salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and creamy.
  3. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat, add pancetta, and cook until crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté Swiss chard stems for 2 minutes. Add shallots and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Add chard leaves until wilted, about 2 minutes, then add lemon juice.
  5. If needed, reheat polenta gently, adding broth or milk for consistency. Serve polenta topped with sautéed chard and pancetta, garnished as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Continuous stirring is essential for a smooth polenta. Adjust consistency when reheating by adding liquid as needed.

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