Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts

Name: Polenta with Gorgonzola and Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta (stone-ground cornmeal); 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 6 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Food

I absolutely love making polenta with Gorgonzola and walnuts because it combines comforting textures with rich flavors. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also elevates any meal with its creamy polenta base and tangy cheese. The crunch of toasted walnuts adds an excellent contrast, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether I’m serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a fancy side dish for guests, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase seasonal ingredients!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:13:37.483Z

When I first attempted polenta, I was surprised by how simple it was to prepare. The key is to constantly stir and gradually add the cornmeal to achieve that creamy consistency. I enjoy using stone-ground cornmeal because it provides a deeper flavor compared to instant varieties. Every time I make it, I experiment with different cheeses and nuts, but Gorgonzola and walnuts have become my favorite combination. It’s such a delightful pairing!

One of the best tips I’ve learned is to let the cooked polenta rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, which results in a more cohesive dish. I also love to sprinkle some extra walnuts on top right before serving to ensure that everyone enjoys that crunch in every bite. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy polenta perfectly complemented by tangy Gorgonzola
Crunchy walnuts add delightful texture and flavor
Easily adaptable for various occasions and tastes

Mastering the Polenta Texture

Cooking polenta requires patience and attention to detail to achieve the desired creamy texture. It’s crucial to whisk continuously as you add the polenta to the boiling water; this helps prevent lumps from forming. If you notice any stubborn lumps, don’t panic! A brisk whisk will usually break them down, but if it’s particularly stubborn, you can use an immersion blender to smooth the mixture after cooking.

Once the polenta is thick and creamy—usually after about 25 minutes—you'll want to ensure it's not too thick or too runny. Ideally, it should hold its shape when spooned out while still being smooth and spreadable. If you find your polenta is too thick, you can stir in a little extra water or milk to loosen it up.

Choosing the Right Gorgonzola

The type of Gorgonzola you select can significantly impact the final flavor of your dish. There are two main styles: Gorgonzola Dolce, which is creamy and slightly sweet, and Gorgonzola Piccante, known for its bold, pungent flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, go with Dolce; for a more robust flavor, Piccante is the way to go. Both varieties melt well, but their profiles will alter the overall taste of your polenta.

When incorporating the Gorgonzola into the hot polenta, make sure to remove the pot from the heat. This prevents the cheese from separating or becoming too grainy, ensuring a smooth, velvety finish. Stir gently, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly, which adds a luscious creaminess to the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Polenta with Gorgonzola and walnuts is versatile and can be served in various ways depending on your occasion. For a rustic winter meal, consider pairing it with braised meats or roasted vegetables. In a warmer setting, serving it alongside fresh salads or grilled shrimp can create a delightful balance. You can also create a polenta bowl by adding sautéed greens or a dollop of pesto for extra flavor.

If you’re looking to adapt the recipe for dietary restrictions, consider using nutritional yeast in place of Gorgonzola for a dairy-free option. Additionally, pecans or almonds can substitute walnuts if you’re aiming for a different nutty flavor. For a spicy kick, try stirring in some chili flakes along with the cheese to elevate the taste profile.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful dish.

Ingredients

1 cup polenta (stone-ground cornmeal)
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
6 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
2 tablespoons olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious polenta dish.

Prepare the Polenta

In a large pot, bring the water and salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for about 25 minutes, stirring often, until the polenta is thick and creamy.

Incorporate Gorgonzola

Once the polenta is cooked, stir in the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and combined. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Toast the Walnuts

In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast them for about 5 minutes or until fragrant and golden, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Serve the Dish

Spoon the creamy polenta onto plates or into bowls. Top generously with the toasted walnuts and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

This dish can be enjoyed as a main or a side, paired well with a variety of proteins.

Pro Tips

For a different flavor profile, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the polenta while cooking. Additionally, for extra creaminess, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or butter at the end.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This polenta dish can be made ahead of time, which is great for meal prep. You can cook the polenta and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove with a little added water or milk, stirring to regain its creamy texture.

If you wish to freeze the polenta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your polenta turns out grainy, this usually indicates that it wasn’t whisked vigorously enough during cooking, which can allow lumps to form. For a smoother polenta, ensure that you are whisking continuously while adding the cornmeal and keep the heat low as it cooks.

Another common issue is overcooked polenta, which can become too thick and solidify as it cools. If this happens, add small amounts of water or broth while reheating to bring back its creamy texture. A splash of olive oil can also help improve the consistency and flavor.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor further, consider incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while cooking the polenta. These herbs infuse a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor that complement the Gorgonzola beautifully. Adding a splash of white wine while cooking the polenta can also enhance its overall taste.

You might also experiment with different cheeses for a twist on the classic recipe. Cheeses like feta or goat cheese can provide a tangy contrast to the creaminess of the polenta. Mix and match the toppings to suit your taste preferences, whether adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant polenta for this recipe?

Yes, instant polenta cooks much faster, typically around 5 minutes, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover polenta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

→ Is there a vegan alternative to Gorgonzola?

Yes, you can use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

→ What other toppings could I use?

Top with sautéed mushrooms, fresh herbs, or even caramelized onions for a different flavor twist!