Description

Creamy Oven-Baked Polenta is a comforting and silky dish that combines the rustic charm of traditional polenta with the ease of oven baking, delivering a perfectly smooth and creamy texture full of rich, savory flavor. This simple yet decadent recipe uses minimal ingredients for a luscious finish, and can be customized with cheeses, herbs, or spices. Ideal as a side dish or a base for a variety of toppings, it’s perfect for meal prep and elevates everyday meals with warmth and ease.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 cup coarse polenta (coarse cornmeal)
4 cups water or broth (vegetable or chicken)
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 cup cream or milk for extra silkiness

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish that will comfortably hold the polenta mixture. This ensures easy removal and a nicely browned crust on top.
Combine Polenta and Liquid: In a large saucepan, bring your choice of water or broth to a gentle boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and allow the cornmeal to start absorbing the liquid evenly.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Once the polenta begins to thicken slightly on the stove (about 5 minutes), pour it into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly for uniform cooking.
Add Butter and Cheese: Dot the top with butter and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese across the surface. These will melt and infuse the polenta while baking, creating a lush, creamy character.
Bake Until Set and Creamy: Bake the polenta uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s set around the edges but remains creamy in the center. Stir once halfway through baking to encourage creamy consistency throughout.
Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the polenta to rest for a few minutes. Stir gently to loosen before serving warm as a side or base for your favorite toppings or sauces.

Notes

Use coarse-ground polenta rather than instant for better texture and flavor.
Pour liquid gradually while stirring to avoid lumps and ensure smoothness.
Stir halfway through baking to redistribute moisture and create a luxuriously creamy finish.
Avoid overbaking to prevent drying or cracking.
Using broth instead of water adds extra depth of flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 220
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: creamy polenta, oven-baked polenta, easy polenta recipe, gluten free side dish, comfort food