We’ve all been there – you’re ready to whip up a delicious meal, and suddenly you realize you’re out of polenta.
Stressful, right? Polenta is a versatile ingredient, but life happens and you run out of stuff. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our favorite polenta substitutes.
There are so many options that work perfectly. Whether you’re looking for something quick or hoping to find an alternative that’s already in your pantry, we’ve figured it out.
From grits to mashed potatoes, our guide will save your dinner plans. Let’s dive into these swaps and keep your recipes on point!

7 Easy Substitutes for Polenta
While nothing beats the unique texture and flavor of polenta, there are some great substitutes that can save you in a pinch. Here are seven of our top picks:
1 – Grits
The first substitute on our list is grits. Grits have a similar texture to polenta, making them a great stand-in. Grits are made from corn, and they have a slightly grainier texture. Use grits in a 1:1 ratio when you run out of polenta.
We’ve found that grits absorb flavors just as well. They have a more pronounced corn flavor. Imagine a creamy bowl of grits paired with a savory sauce. They bring a Southern twist to any dish, and we love that!
2 – Semolina
Next up is semolina. It’s like the cool, underappreciated cousin of polenta. Semolina has a finer texture and a slightly nutty flavor, making it a great swap.
We love that you can use it in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute. The flavors are more subtle, but it works well with sauces.
Our personal favorite? Semolina used in our creamy side dishes. It brings a smooth texture that’s just comforting and cozy.
3 – Couscous
While we’re talking about replacements, couscous is a solid option. Couscous is made from tiny granules of durum wheat. It cooks up fluffy and light.
The flavor is mild, almost nutty. Perfect for absorbing sauces and seasonings. We like using it in stews or under grilled veggies.
Use it at a 1:1 ratio as you would with polenta. It’s quick to make and very versatile. For more on different couscous substitutes, check out this detailed guide.
4 – Quinoa
This is like the trendiest friend in our pantry. Quinoa is packed with flavor and pairs well with just about anything. You can swap it for polenta at a 1:1 ratio. It’s super fluffy and adds a nice texture to any dish.
It also has a slightly nutty flavor, which we love. We often use quinoa in salads or as a base for bowls. It’s quick to cook and super versatile.
For more quinoa substitutes, check out this guide.
5 – Mashed Potatoes
Got potatoes? They make a great substitute for polenta. Mashed potatoes are creamy and rich, giving your dish a comforting vibe. We love using them as a base for hearty stews or sauces.
The flavor is mild and buttery, which fits well with most other ingredients. Use mashed potatoes in a 1:1 ratio as a replacement. They’re super easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.
From personal experience, we’ve found they add an extra level of coziness to any meal.
6 – Risotto
Risotto is our go-to for a creamy alternative. Cooked to a velvety consistency, risotto absorbs flavors beautifully. Use a 1:1 ratio with polenta.
It brings rich texture and a slightly nutty taste. Perfect for dishes needing a bit more substance. We’ve made risotto with sautéed mushrooms, and it was a hit.
The creaminess of risotto is next-level. So easy to make and pairs well with savory sauces. It also works great as a standalone dish.
7 – Riced Cauliflower
Riced cauliflower has a mild, slightly nutty flavor, which makes it a versatile substitute for polenta. It’s super easy to make and works well with most recipes.
For this swap, use a 1:1 ratio. You only need to steam it for a few minutes.
We love its light texture; it goes great with sauces and mix-ins. In terms of flavor absorption, it’s fantastic and keeps the dish fresh.
We’ve used riced cauliflower in so many dishes, and it’s always a hit. It’s a great low-carb option too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, grits can replace polenta in savory dishes. Both are made from cornmeal, though grits have a finer texture. You can season them similarly for a comforting side dish.
Couscous can be used as an alternative in dishes where polenta is a side. It has a different texture but works well when cooked with broth and seasoned appropriately.
Quinoa can work as a substitute for polenta, especially in gluten-free dishes. While it has a nuttier flavor and firmer texture, it provides a similar base for savory toppings.
Mashed potatoes can replace polenta in casseroles, offering a smooth, creamy base. While it lacks the corn flavor, it provides a similar comforting texture.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.