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Creamy Oven-Baked Polenta

Creamy Oven-Baked Polenta
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Creamy Oven-Baked Polenta is a rich, smooth, and comforting dish that combines the rustic appeal of traditional polenta with a silky, custard-like baked finish. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, it delivers warmth, versatility, and indulgent flavor that can be customized with various cheeses, herbs, and spices.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup coarse cornmeal (stone-ground or medium-ground)
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Herbs and Spices

  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
  2. Boil the Liquid: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or broth to a rolling boil. Season with salt to enhance flavor and create the base for creamy polenta.
  3. Gradually Add Cornmeal: Slowly whisk in 1 cup of coarse cornmeal to the boiling liquid to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to low, stirring frequently, and cook until thickened and smooth, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Enhance and Combine: Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup grated cheese, and 1 cup milk or cream until fully melted and blended. Adjust salt and pepper according to taste. Add optional herbs or spices if desired.
  5. Transfer and Bake: Pour the creamy polenta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until a thin golden crust forms and the interior bubbles softly.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow polenta to rest for a few minutes so it sets and becomes easier to serve with an elevated creamy texture.

Notes

  • Use coarse cornmeal for the best balance between creamy texture and a slight bite.
  • Stir frequently on the stovetop to prevent lumps and ensure smoothness before baking.
  • Let the polenta rest after baking to lock in creaminess and improve slicing.
  • Add cheese at the end of stovetop cooking to avoid graininess in texture.
  • Try mixing liquids: half broth and half milk offers more complex flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy polenta, baked polenta, oven baked polenta, comfort food, gluten free

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/creamy-oven-baked-polenta/