Instant Pot® Polenta with Savory Italian Sausage

This creamy and comforting dish comes together quickly in the Instant Pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With savory Italian sausage adding a flavorful punch, it’s a delicious twist on a classic favorite.

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TIME30 min

SERVINGS4

RATINGNew

Instant Pot® Polenta with Savory Italian Sausage

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 ¼ cups chicken broth ½ cup Italian polenta ¼ cup fat-free half-and-half 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil 4 Italian turkey sausage links 12 ounces marinara sauce 1 medium onion, sliced 1 green bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips 1 tablespoon butter ½ teaspoon garlic salt 1 pinch crushed red pepper ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by mixing the chicken broth, polenta, and half-and-half in a medium heat-safe bowl, like a Pyrex, and set it aside for now. Turn on your Instant Pot and choose the Sauté setting. Add the grapeseed oil and let it heat up, then brown the sausages, cooking them for about 2 minutes on each side. Stir in the marinara sauce, chopped onion, and bell pepper, combining everything well. Place the trivet inside the pot and carefully set the bowl with the polenta on top. Lock the lid in place and set the pressure cooker to high pressure for 10 minutes. It will take around 10 to 15 minutes to come up to pressure. Once the cooking time is up, use the quick-release method to let the steam out, then open the lid. Give the polenta a good whisk with the butter, garlic salt, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan. Serve it right away and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Stir the polenta frequently to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Use low to medium heat when browning the sausage to develop flavor without burning.
- Let the polenta rest a few minutes after cooking to thicken properly before serving.

Why you’ll love it

This dish is comforting and full of rich flavors. The creamy polenta pairs perfectly with the savory sausage, making it a satisfying meal. Using an Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process without losing any taste.

Serving ideas

Serve with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes to balance the richness.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess. Polenta tends to firm up when chilled but softens again when warmed.