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Creamy Sausage Ragu with Cheesy Polenta Bowls

Creamy Sausage Ragu with Cheesy Polenta Bowls
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Creamy Sausage Ragu with Cheesy Polenta Bowls is a hearty, comforting dish combining a luscious, savory Italian sausage ragu with smooth, parmesan-infused polenta. Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe balances rich flavors, creamy textures, and easy preparation, making it a versatile and soulful meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage Ragu

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (fresh, casing removed)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can tomatoes (crushed or diced)
  • 1–2 teaspoons fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheesy Polenta

  • 4 cups water or broth (vegetable or chicken)
  • 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
  • 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste

Garnishes (optional)

  • Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or extra thyme)
  • Extra grated parmesan cheese
  • Drizzle of high-quality olive oil

Instructions

  1. Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent, building the flavor foundation for the ragu.
  3. Build the Ragu Sauce: Add the canned tomatoes, fresh herbs, and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors together. Stir in the heavy cream gradually to create a smooth, creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Prepare the Polenta: While the ragu simmers, bring water or broth to a boil in a separate pot. Slowly whisk in the polenta and cook according to package instructions until thick and smooth, about 25-30 minutes. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and season with salt as needed.
  5. Assemble the Polenta Bowls: Ladle the cheesy polenta into serving bowls and generously top with the creamy sausage ragu. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs, extra parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil for enhanced flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor in the ragu.
  • Stir the polenta frequently while cooking to prevent lumps and ensure a creamy texture.
  • Allow the ragu to simmer adequately to deepen flavors and tenderize the sausage.
  • Add heavy cream slowly into the hot ragu to avoid curdling and maintain a smooth sauce.
  • Season throughout the cooking process and adjust seasoning to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: sausage ragu, cheesy polenta, creamy polenta bowl, Italian dinner, comfort food, gluten free, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/creamy-sausage-ragu-with-cheesy-polenta-bowls/