Golden, crisp, and irresistibly comforting, fried polenta is a classic Italian dish that turns a simple staple into something truly special. Made from cornmeal that’s been cooked into a smooth, creamy porridge and then cooled until firm, polenta transforms into a versatile base that can be sliced and fried to perfection. The result is a dish with a beautifully crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior, a satisfying contrast that makes each bite deliciously addictive. Its mild corn flavor and rich, buttery texture make it a perfect companion for a wide variety of dishes.
One of the best things about fried polenta is its versatility. Served plain with a sprinkle of sea salt and a touch of Parmesan, it’s a simple yet elegant appetizer. Paired with a rich tomato sauce, creamy garlic aioli, or a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil, it becomes a more flavorful snack or side dish. It also pairs beautifully with hearty stews, braised meats, or roasted vegetables, soaking up sauces while adding a delightful crunch. For a more decadent version, top the slices with baked mushrooms, melted cheese, or a poached egg for a satisfying meal.
Fried polenta’s neutral flavor also makes it a perfect canvas for creativity. You can infuse the base with cheese or herbs before it sets, season the slices with spices before frying, or even coat them lightly in breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Its gluten-free nature makes it an excellent option for a variety of diets, while its rustic roots keep it grounded in traditional comfort food.
Whether served as a snack, side, or main component of a meal, fried polenta is proof that simple ingredients can become something extraordinary. With its crisp edges, creamy center, and endless pairing possibilities, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and refined, the kind of recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 cup polenta instant or regular cornmeal variety
- 4 cups water for cooking the polenta
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter for flavor
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for extra flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil.
- Gradually whisk in the polenta, reducing heat to low and stirring constantly until thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in butter and cheese (if using) until fully combined, then pour the polenta onto a greased baking sheet or dish to cool and set.
- Once set, cut the polenta into desired shapes or squares.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the polenta pieces until golden brown and crispy on each side.
- Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Nutrition
I burned mine. WAAAAH. Should’ve paid more attention. 🙁
Burning is just part of cooking, right? It’s like a rite of passage lol! 😂
Don’t worry! Happens to the best of us. Just try again, you’ll get it next time! 😊
What is polenta? Sounds weird. Can I make it with regular corn? 🤔
The frying part makes it a little messy but it’s worth it! Perfect with marinara sauce.
I totally agree! The mess is worth it for that crispy goodness. Marinara is the perfect dip!
Isn’t polenta just fancy grits? I guess this could work for a brunch. 🤷♂️
This recipe is awesome! Took me back to Italy! So comforting.
Delish! I added some herbs and it made it even better. 🍃
Herbs sound like a great idea! I never thought about adding them to polenta. Will try it next time! 😊
Really easy to make! I didn’t have cheese, but it still turned out great. Will definitely try with cheese next time!
So simple! Only thing is, my kids were not into it at all. What do I do? They just kept saying yuck. 😩