Easy Instant Pot® Italian Sausage and Creamy Polenta
A comforting dish combines savory Italian sausage with rich, creamy polenta for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together effortlessly in the Instant Pot for delicious, hassle-free cooking.
Prep Time5 min
Cook Time25 min
Total Time30 min
Difficulty
Medium
Cooking Tips
Brown the sausage first for extra flavor before adding other ingredients.
Stir the polenta constantly once added to prevent lumps.
Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
Ingredients
0/12
Why This Meal Is A Winner
This dish comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy polenta pairs beautifully with the savory Italian sausage, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Using an Instant Pot speeds up cooking without sacrificing flavor.
Directions
Mix the chicken broth, polenta, and half-and-half in a heat-safe bowl, like a Pyrex, and set it aside. Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heat up the grapeseed oil. Once hot, add the sausages and brown them well, about 2 minutes on each side. Then, stir in the marinara sauce, chopped onion, and bell pepper until everything is combined. Place the trivet inside the pot and carefully set the bowl with the polenta on top of it. Lock the lid in place and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes—remember it’ll take a little time for the pot to come up to pressure. When the timer’s up, use the quick-release method to let out the steam safely. Open the lid, then whisk in the butter, garlic salt, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese into the polenta until it’s creamy and smooth. Serve right away and enjoy!
203
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Serving Ideas For Family Meals
Serve this meal with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or fresh herbs like basil can enhance the flavors. Crusty bread on the side is also a nice addition.
Storing Food Safely
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 broth or milk to keep the polenta creamy. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular sausage instead of turkey sausage?
Yes, you can substitute with any Italian sausage you prefer, such as pork or beef.
What can I use if I don’t have grapeseed oil?
Olive oil or vegetable oil are good alternatives for sautéing the sausages.
How do I know when the polenta is done cooking?
The polenta will be creamy and smooth after pressure cooking and stirring in butter and cheese.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free half-and-half and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Is it okay to add extra vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini during the sauté step.
Can I prepare this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook sausages and vegetables on the stove and make polenta separately on the stovetop.
How long does it take for the Instant Pot to come to pressure?
It usually takes about 10 minutes to reach high pressure before the cooking timer starts.
Can I store leftovers, and how should I reheat them?
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
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