Creamy Goat Cheese Polenta is a rich and comforting dish that combines the soft, buttery texture of polenta with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese. This savory side dish is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals, offering a creamy, flavorful base that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, meats, or even a simple salad. The earthy flavors of the polenta are enhanced by the goat cheese, which adds a deliciously smooth texture and a subtle, tangy bite.
The base of the dish is traditional polenta, made by slowly simmering cornmeal with water or stock until it thickens into a smooth, velvety consistency. The key to achieving the perfect creamy texture is to cook the polenta gently, stirring frequently to prevent clumping. Once the polenta reaches the right consistency, goat cheese is stirred in, adding richness and flavor. The goat cheese melts into the polenta, giving it a tangy, smooth finish that takes the dish to the next level.
For extra depth of flavor, garlic, herbs, or a splash of olive oil can be added to the polenta while it cooks. Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs particularly well with the richness of the goat cheese, infusing the dish with aromatic notes that elevate the taste. A generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese can also be added for extra sharpness and depth.
Creamy Goat Cheese Polenta is incredibly versatile and can be served as a side dish for a variety of main courses. It works beautifully alongside roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, and can also be paired with grilled vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian meal. For a more indulgent version, drizzle the polenta with a little olive oil or butter before serving, or top it with a few crispy fried shallots or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
This dish is perfect for cozy dinners, holiday meals, or as a comforting side at your next gathering. Creamy Goat Cheese Polenta is the kind of dish that adds warmth and richness to any meal, with its perfect balance of smooth polenta and tangy goat cheese.

Ingredients
- 1 cup polenta coarse
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 1/2 cup milk optional, for extra creaminess
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil and add salt.
- Slowly whisk in the polenta, reduce the heat to low, and cook, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter, goat cheese, and milk (if using). Stir until fully combined and creamy.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or base for other toppings.
Came out perfect! I added some roasted veggies on top and it was just amazing! 😍
Sounds delicious! I love the idea of adding roasted veggies. Going to try that next time! 😋
made this for dinner. it was ok, not the best but not bad either. just average.
I thought it was really good! The goat cheese adds a nice tang. Maybe you just didn’t add enough seasoning?
Honestly, I found it kinda bland too. Not sure if I’d try it again, you know?
This was just what I needed! So creamy and delicious!
This polenta was sooo good! Creamy and flavorful! I love goat cheese!
Yum! But I used mozzarella instead of goat cheese because that’s what I had. Still turned out great!
Mozzarella sounds like a good swap! I’ve done that too and it was delish! 😊
Super easy to make. My kids actually ate it, which is a win for me!
I’m glad your kids liked it! My little ones are so picky, but this might be worth a try. Thanks!
Why use goat cheese? It’s too strong for me. 🤢
Y’all, this is real good. Goat cheese is bomb! 😍
Absolutely! Goat cheese really takes it to the next level! 🧀✨
Took me longer than 25 mins, but the end result was so good! Recommend!
So simple to make, but I forgot to whisk the polenta and it ended up lumpy. Still tasty though.
Yum! Great for winter nights! I just love how easy it was to make. Will def make again!
This sounds delicious! Can’t wait to try it! 😍
I don’t get why you would wanna add milk. Isn’t goat cheese creamy enough? 🤔
I tried it but the polenta didn’t thicken as expected. 😒 Maybe I added water too fast?
It sounds like you might’ve rushed the water part! You gotta whisk it in slowly, or it won’t thicken right. Don’t give up, maybe try again! 😄
I dunno, polenta is tricky. I think it could also be the heat? Keep it low but too low might not cook right… just sayin’.
This polenta recipe is a game changer! The goat cheese gives it such a rich flavor. Loved it!
I tried this but it didn’t turn out as good as I hoped. The polenta was too thick, maybe I added too much cheese?
Not bad but it could use more flavor. Tried adding garlic, which was better!
Just meh. The flavors were kinda bland. Maybe needs more spices?
I don’t like goat cheese, so I switched it to cream cheese. Not gonna lie, tasted fine. But is that cheating?
Lol I thought polenta was just for hippies. This was surprisingly good though. 8/10 would eat again!
Perfect comfort food! I added some herbs and spices, and it was awesome. Thanks for sharing!
Sounds delicious! What herbs did you use? I’m always looking for ways to spice up my dishes.
I don’t know… goat cheese in polenta? That sounds weird to me. Can you really taste it?
This was absolutely delicious! I didn’t expect polenta to be this creamy. The goat cheese was a perfect touch!
This is the best polenta recipe ever! So creamy and delicious. My family devoured it!
Too mushy for my taste. I thought polenta was supposed to be firmer.
I never tried polenta before and I am surprised! This is simple and tastes delicious! I’ll make it again!
I’m not really into goat cheese. Can you use mozzarella instead? This look nice tho.
I made this for my family, but they just didn’t like the flavor of goat cheese. Maybe try using cheddar next time?
Cheddar would be a great substitute! Goat cheese can be pretty strong for some people. I’m sure your family will love it next time!
This is the perfect side! I served it with grilled chicken. Yum!
Super easy and creamy! I didn’t have goat cheese so I used cheddar. Still yum!
Using cheddar instead of goat cheese? That’s a bold move! Glad you liked it though!
Isn’t polenta supposed to be harder? Mine turned out too runny, I think I did somethin wrong.
I think it might have been the amount of water? Polenta can be tricky!
I don’t even like goat cheese but I tried this and wow, it’s delicious! Surprise!
I think you forgot to mention how long to boil the water… ? I just winged it.
DIY-ing this tonight, can’t wait! 🤤
Looks good but aren’t polenta and grits the same thing? 🤔
Yum, enjoy it! The goat cheese makes it so rich! 🤩
This was too bland for my taste. I think it needs more seasoning. Might try adding garlic next time.
Polenta? Isn’t that just Italian grits? Can you even call this a recipe??
This polenta is so creamy and delicious! The goat cheese adds such a nice flavor. Will definitely make again!
I totally agree! The goat cheese really makes it pop. 😍
Whoa, a whole cup of polenta for 4 cups of water? That’s a lot! I messed it up.
Absolutely loved this recipe! So creamy and full of flavor. I added some sautéed spinach and it was perfect!
How can you ruin a dish with cheese? It’s good but not amazing…
Cheese makes everything better! Maybe you just need to add more flavors next time?
I added some roasted vegetables on top and it was a hit with the fam. Thanks!
I don’t get why people like goat cheese. It’s kinda weird, tastes like a barn.
I get what you mean! Some people just can’t handle that strong flavor. But in this recipe, the creamy polenta balances it out really well. You might be surprised!
Goat cheese is amazing! It has a unique taste that can elevate any dish. Maybe you just haven’t found the right recipe yet!
Not really a fan of goat cheese, I used feta instead and it was good but different.
Feta is a great substitute! I’ve done that too, it gives a nice twist to the recipe.
Too much salt for my taste; maybe use a pinch instead of a teaspoon?
Made it twice this week! Love the flavors!
great recipe, easy to follow! bnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn
Honestly, I don’t get the hype around polenta. It’s like glue! Would rather have mashed potatoes.
Why is it called ‘polenta’? Sounds fancy but it’s just corn!
Polenta? More like blah-lenta. Not impressed. I expected more flavor.
What is polenta? Is it like cornmeal? This recipe sounds fancy but idk if I can make it.
I think it needs more salt, it was kinda bland. Maybe I’ll add some spices next time.
Okay, so I forgot the butter. LOL! Still tasted great though.
Yum! I added garlic and spinach to mine and it turned out amazing! Highly recommend.
I don’t think garlic and spinach would go with goat cheese, but whatever works for you.
Garlic and spinach? That’s a genius idea! I’ll have to try that next time! 👍
Too complicated for me. I just microwave instant stuff, this takes ages.
Such a simple recipe! I added sautéed mushrooms on top. Perfection! 🍄❤️
Never thought I would like polenta, but this recipe changed my mind! Took it to a potluck and everyone loved it!
Very easy to make but my polenta turned out too thick. What’s the secret to getting it creamy?
Wow, goat cheese is really a game changer here! I never thought to use it in polenta.
I dunno about that. Goat cheese ain’t for everyone, ya know?
Totally agree! Goat cheese adds such a rich flavor. Can’t wait to try this!
Polenta is the devil! I’d rather eat plain rice any day! 🤷♂️
Really? You need 4 cups of water for 1 cup of polenta? Feels like a lot, scared to try. Anyone else think that’s too much?
I was worried too, but it turned out perfect! Just trust the process. The creaminess is worth it! 😊
Polenta? What even is that? Tasted weird to me, I don’t think I’ll do this again. 🤷♂️
I don’t see what all the fuss is about. It’s just mushy cornmeal!
Are you kidding? Polenta can be so creamy and delicious when made right! It’s a comfort food for many. Give it a try before knocking it!