Baked Polenta with Fresh Tomatoes and Parmesan

Baked Polenta with Fresh Tomatoes and Parmesan
  • PREP TIME
    10 mins
  • COOK TIME
    30 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    40 mins
  • SERVING
    4 People
  • VIEWS
    148

Savor the essence of summer with this rustic baked polenta, where creamy, golden polenta meets the vibrant sweetness of fresh tomatoes and the sharp, nutty bite of Parmesan. A delightful side dish that elevates any grilled fare.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    38 g
  • Cholesterol
    57 mg
  • Fiber
    3 g
  • Protein
    22 g
  • Saturated Fat
    12 g
  • Sodium
    1013 mg
  • Sugar
    7 g
  • Fat
    21 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

02

Step

In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, and 1 tablespoon of butter. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in the polenta, ensuring no lumps form. Continue stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. (Cook time: 5 minutes)

03

Step

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the chopped basil. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. (Prep time: 2 minutes)

04

Step

Pour the polenta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Dot the top with the chilled butter pieces. (Prep time: 2 minutes)

05

Step

Bake in the preheated oven until the polenta is bubbly and begins to brown, approximately 15-20 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. (Bake time: 15-20 minutes)

06

Step

Remove the dish from the oven. Arrange the tomato slices decoratively over the top of the polenta. Sprinkle the remaining chopped basil over the tomatoes, followed by the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

07

Step

Return the baking dish to the oven and bake until the tomatoes are warmed through and the Parmesan cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5-10 minutes. (Bake time: 5-10 minutes)

08

Step

Let the polenta rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a clove of minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the polenta while cooking.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Asiago or Pecorino Romano would also be delicious.
If you don't have fresh basil on hand, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
To prevent the polenta from sticking to the pan while cooking, use a non-stick saucepan or lightly grease your regular saucepan before adding the ingredients.
This dish is best served immediately. However, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Dayana Cronin

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.5/ 5 ( 49 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (6)
  • Dudley Roberts

    This is a perfect side dish for a summer barbecue.

  • Dariana Mclaughlin

    I added some roasted garlic to the polenta and it was amazing!

  • Tyshawn Haagmueller

    Next time, I'll try using different herbs, like oregano or thyme.

  • Keven Terry

    The polenta was a bit bland, so I added some extra salt and pepper.

  • Nichole Gerhold

    This recipe is a keeper! It's so versatile and easy to customize.

  • Edd Yundt

    My family loved this! So easy to make and a great way to use up our garden tomatoes.

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