Sausage and Peppers with Creamy Polenta

1. 1
   boil · ~20 min

   Start the polenta.

   1.In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups water with a pinch of salt to a rolling boil over high heat.

   2.Gradually whisk in 1 cup cornmeal in a steady stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

   3.Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy, about 20 minutes.

   TIPWhisk constantly when adding cornmeal — stopping even for a second can create lumps.
2. 2
   fry · ~7 min

   Brown the sausage.

   1.Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   2.Add the sausage, breaking it into bite-sized chunks with a wooden spoon.

   3.Cook until well-browned all over, about 6-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

   TIPDon't crumble the sausage too small — chunky pieces stay juicier and give the dish more texture.
3. 3
   saute · ~9 min

   Cook the peppers and onions.

   1.Add the remaining 1 tsp olive oil to the same skillet.

   2.Add the sliced bell peppers and onion with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and starting to caramelize at the edges, about 6-8 minutes.

   3.Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

   TIPLet the peppers sit undisturbed for the first 2 minutes to get those good charred spots before stirring.
4. 4
   simmer · ~7 min

   Simmer the sausage and pepper mixture.

   1.Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to break down, about 2 minutes.

   2.Return the browned sausage to the pan along with any juices from the plate.

   3.Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

   TIPIf the pan looks dry at any point, splash in a tablespoon or two of water to help create a light sauce.
5. 5
   mix · ~2 min

   Finish the creamy polenta.

   1.Once the polenta is thick, remove the saucepan from the heat.

   2.Stir in the butter and grated parmesan until melted and fully incorporated.

   3.Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. 6
   assemble · ~1 min

   Plate the dish.

   1.Spoon a generous bed of creamy polenta into each bowl or onto each plate.

   2.Top with the sausage and pepper mixture, spooning the pan juices over the top.

   3.Scatter the torn fresh basil over each serving.

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