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Italian Polenta with Sausage – Rustic, Comforting, and Full of Flavor


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

Creamy Italian polenta served with savory sausage in a rich tomato sauce—comforting, hearty, and perfect for a rustic Italian-style meal.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or basil


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add sausage slices and cook until browned; remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté onion until softened.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  6. Return sausage to skillet and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
  7. Meanwhile, bring water or broth to a boil in a saucepan.
  8. Gradually whisk in polenta, reduce heat to low, and cook, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until thick.
  9. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese.
  10. Serve sausage and sauce over warm polenta and garnish if desired.

Notes

  • Stir polenta frequently to prevent lumps.
  • Add a splash of cream for extra-rich polenta.
  • Leftover polenta firms up and can be grilled or fried.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian