Baked Polenta

Baked Polenta is one of those comforting dishes that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings. I still remember the first time I tried it at my grandmother’s house during a chilly fall evening. The aroma of baked cornmeal filled the air, tempting everyone to gather around the table. As I took my first bite, the creamy texture and buttery flavor enveloped my senses, making me feel right at home. Since then, I’ve taken it upon myself to perfect the art of making Baked Polenta. This dish is not just a side; it’s a canvas for creativity, versatile enough to complement any meal or stand proudly on its own.

What You’ll Need for Baked Polenta

When it comes to making Baked Polenta, the ingredients are simple yet essential. The combination of cornmeal, water, milk, and butter creates a creamy base that is hearty and satisfying. Each ingredient plays a role in building texture and enhancing flavor, bringing this dish to life.

• Unsalted butter, as needed (for greasing): This helps achieve a non-stick surface for your polenta, ensuring it comes out perfectly every time.
• Cornmeal: The star ingredient, providing the characteristic texture and flavor of polenta.
• Water: Serves as the primary cooking liquid, allowing the cornmeal to soften and swell.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and richness; you can use whole milk for the best results.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Butter, optional (for stirring): Stirring in a bit of butter before serving enriches the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (for serving): A sprinkle of cheese adds a salty bite and depth of flavor.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Ground black pepper, optional (for serving): A dash of pepper can elevate the dish with a little kick.

How to Make Baked Polenta

Creating Baked Polenta is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The steps are simple, yet the results are immensely satisfying. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your polenta will bake evenly from the start.

2. Generously grease a baking dish with butter. Make sure to cover the bottom and sides to prevent sticking.

3. In the greased dish, whisk together the cornmeal, water, milk, and salt until combined. The mixture may look a bit uneven; this is normal. You want it to be well mixed but don’t worry if it looks slightly lumpy.

4. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 50 to 60 minutes. Stir the mixture halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for the polenta to be set and slightly firm.

5. When the polenta is ready, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before adjusting the seasoning. If needed, add extra salt to taste.

6. Mix in 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of butter for an additional layer of richness. Stir until fully blended.

7. If desired, top with grated Parmesan, parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper before serving. This adds flavor and a beautiful garnish to your dish.

8. Serve warm, and enjoy the creamy texture and comforting flavors of your Baked Polenta. It’s the perfect accompaniment to many meals or can even be enjoyed on its own!

Recipe Notes about Baked Polenta

As you prepare Baked Polenta, here are some notes that might enhance your cooking experience:

• Storage: Leftover Baked Polenta can be stored in the fridge for up to five days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
• Freezing: You can freeze polenta for up to three months. Cut it into portions before freezing for convenience.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with sautéed vegetables, grilled chicken, or a hearty tomato sauce.
• Serving Temperature: Baked polenta can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature, making it versatile for various occasions.
• Variations: Mix in different cheeses or herbs for unique flavor profiles. Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a more nutritious version.

Serving This Baked Polenta

When it comes to serving Baked Polenta, the options are limitless and delightful:

• As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• For Breakfast: Top it with a poached egg and avocado for a hearty breakfast option.
• During Gatherings: Baked polenta is perfect for holiday dinners, as it can accommodate large crowds and pairs well with many dishes.
• Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in the fridge for easy meal prep during the week. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve with roasted squash; in the summer, pair it with fresh tomatoes and basil.

FAQ

Conclusion

Baked Polenta is a truly special dish that combines simplicity with comfort, making it perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and versatile nature allow for endless customization, ensuring it can suit everyone’s taste. I encourage you to try making this delightful recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Baked Polenta

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Polenta offers a creamy texture and rich flavor that's perfect for any occasion. This easy weeknight dish is versatile enough to be a satisfying side or a standalone meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously warm dish that will become a family favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• as needed Unsalted butter (for greasing)
• 1 cup Cornmeal medium-coarse
• 4.5 cups Water
• 3/4 cup Milk
• 3/4 teaspoon Salt , plus more to taste
• 1.5 tablespoons Butter , optional, for stirring
• optional Grated Parmesan cheese , for serving
• chopped Fresh parsley , for garnish
• optional Ground black pepper , for serving

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Generously grease a baking dish with butter.
• In the greased dish, whisk together the cornmeal, water, milk, and salt until combined. The mixture may look a bit uneven; this is normal.
• Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 50 to 60 minutes. Stir the mixture halfway through to ensure even cooking. When the polenta is set and slightly firm, remove it from the oven.
• Adjust seasoning with extra salt if needed, and mix in 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of butter. If desired, top with grated Parmesan, parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.

Notes

• Storage: Leftover Baked Polenta can be stored in the fridge for up to five days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
• Freezing: You can freeze polenta for up to three months. Cut it into portions before freezing for convenience.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with sautéed vegetables, grilled chicken, or a hearty tomato sauce.
• Serving Temperature: Baked polenta can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature, making it versatile for various occasions.
• Variations: Mix in different cheeses or herbs for unique flavor profiles. Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a more nutritious version.

Keyword baked cornmeal recipe, creamy polenta dish, easy baked polenta, gluten-free baked polenta

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.