Creamy Polenta with Truffle Mushrooms

Name: Creamy Polenta with Truffle Mushrooms
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt to taste; 2 cups mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, oyster), sliced; 2 tablespoons truffle oil; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making creamy polenta, especially when it’s paired with luxurious truffle mushrooms. The combination transforms this humble dish into something truly special. Each bite is comforting and rich, with the earthy truffle elevating the dish to gourmet levels. Whether I'm serving it on a cozy night in or impressing guests at a dinner party, creamy polenta always delivers. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, and the flavors meld beautifully, making it a go-to for both weeknights and special occasions.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:10:22.797Z

When I first tried truffle mushrooms with polenta, I was blown away by how the flavors came together. The mushrooms added a luxurious depth, and the creamy polenta acted as the perfect canvas. This dish became a staple for me, and I love experimenting with different toppings. One time, I even added a sprinkle of parmesan, which complemented the truffle beautifully.

Preparing the polenta is straightforward, but the key is to stir continuously to achieve that velvety texture. I often incorporate a splash of cream at the end for added richness. Since the dish is versatile, feel free to adjust the mushrooms or add herbs to customize it to your liking!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Earthy truffle aroma that adds a gourmet touch
Quick to prepare, perfect for both casual and elegant dining

      

Perfecting the Polenta

When making polenta, the key is to whisk it consistently while it cooks. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. I recommend using a sturdy whisk and keeping the heat low after you initially boil the vegetable broth. If you find your polenta is too thick towards the end of cooking, simply add a little more vegetable broth or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency. Polenta should look glossy and hold its shape slightly when spooned into a bowl.

Incorporating Parmesan cheese adds not just flavor but also depth to your polenta. For a richer taste, consider using a high-quality aged Parmesan, which enhances the umami profile. For those who are dairy-sensitive, a nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for cheese, giving that savory flavor without the lactose. Just remember to adjust salt levels accordingly, as cheese usually contributes saltiness to the dish.

Sautéing the Mushrooms

When cooking the mushrooms, choose a mix of varieties like shiitake and cremini for a balance of textures and flavors. Keep the heat at medium-high to achieve a good sear—this helps to caramelize the mushrooms, creating a rich depth of flavor. If they release too much moisture, the mushrooms may boil instead of sauté. If this happens, raise the heat slightly and let them simmer until the liquid evaporates and they’re beautifully golden.

Truffle oil is potent, so use it judiciously; start with less, and add more to taste. To keep this dish vegan-friendly, consider using a plant-based cream instead of heavy cream, along with your preferred Parmesan substitute. This way, you can enjoy the luxurious feel without sacrificing dietary preferences—just be sure to taste your dish again once all substitutions are made to ensure balanced flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious creamy polenta:

For the Polenta

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt to taste

For the Truffle Mushrooms

2 cups mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, oyster), sliced
2 tablespoons truffle oil
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a comforting bowl of creamy polenta with truffle mushrooms:

Prepare the Polenta

In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta, reducing heat to low. Stir continuously for about 20 minutes until thickened and creamy.

Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth. Season with salt as needed.

Cook the Mushrooms

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, then add the mushrooms. Cook until they are browned and tender.

Drizzle with truffle oil and toss to coat.

Serve

Spoon the creamy polenta into bowls and top generously with the truffle mushrooms. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Now sit back and enjoy this luxurious yet simple dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can drizzle more truffle oil over the finished dish just before serving, and consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

Making polenta in advance is not only possible but can also enhance the texture. Prepare your polenta up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove, adding more cream or broth until you achieve that silky texture again. This is ideal for meal prep days, as you’ll save time when you’re ready for a nourishing dinner.

For the mushrooms, you can sauté them up to three days in advance as well. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them gently in a skillet with a touch of oil before serving on top of the polenta. This make-ahead tip is perfect for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy polenta with truffle mushrooms can be a hearty main course on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a well-rounded meal. A light salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the richness of the polenta beautifully, balancing flavors on the plate.

For a gourmet touch, top your dish with a drizzle of extra truffle oil just before serving. This enhances the earthy aroma and adds a luxurious finish. Feel free to customize your toppings, adding ingredients like sautéed spinach or a poached egg for extra richness and nutrition. The versatility of this dish means it can cater to different tastes and dietary needs easily!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, you can use water, but using vegetable broth will enhance the flavor of the polenta.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

A mix of shiitake, cremini, and oyster mushrooms provides great flavor and texture, but feel free to use your favorites!

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, polenta is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.