Creamy Oven-Baked Polenta
Creamy Oven-Baked Polenta is a rich and luscious dish featuring a smooth, silky texture achieved through slow baking. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it serves as a versatile, comforting side or main course that appeals to all ages. Perfect for make-ahead meals, it reheats beautifully while maintaining its creamy consistency and golden crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup coarse cornmeal
- 3 cups water or broth
- 2 cups whole milk and/or cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an ovenproof dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, bring the water or broth to a gentle boil. Slowly whisk in the coarse cornmeal to avoid lumps. Stir in the milk and/or cream, butter, and salt. Cook over low heat for a few minutes, stirring gently until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to thicken.
- Transfer to Ovenproof Dish: Pour the thickened polenta into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the surface to form a golden, flavorful crust.
- Bake Until Set: Bake the polenta for 30–40 minutes, or until it is set and the edges begin to pull away slightly from the dish. The top should be lightly golden and firm to the touch.
- Serve Warm: Allow the polenta to rest for a few minutes before slicing or scooping. Serve warm as a creamy side dish or sliced and grilled for added texture.
Notes
- Use coarse cornmeal for ideal texture and to prevent mushiness.
- Stir gently on the stovetop to avoid lumps before baking.
- Whole milk or cream enhance the richness and creaminess.
- Allow the polenta to rest after baking for easier slicing and serving.
- Add cheese on top rather than mixing it in to achieve a perfect golden crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: polenta, creamy polenta, oven-baked polenta, comfort food, gluten free side dish, Italian side, easy polenta recipe
Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/creamy-oven-baked-polenta/