Foolproof Creamy Baked Polenta (No Constant Stirring!) (Print Version)
Learn the secret to perfect, luxuriously creamy polenta without standing over the stove and stirring forever. This hands-off, oven-baked method delivers flawless results every time.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 5 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 45 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
Dietary: Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Polenta Base
01 -
1 cup coarse or medium-grind yellow cornmeal (polenta)
02 -
1 tsp salt
03 -
2 cups whole milk
04 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
→ For Finishing
05 -
3 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
06 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a Dutch oven, whisk together cornmeal, salt, and the COLD milk and broth until smooth.
02 -
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat on the stovetop, whisking occasionally.
03 -
Cover the pot, transfer to the oven, and bake for 30 minutes.
04 -
Remove from oven, whisk thoroughly, cover again, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until creamy.
05 -
Remove from oven and vigorously whisk in the cubed butter and grated Parmesan cheese until glossy and smooth.
06 -
Taste for seasoning and serve hot as a base for your favorite toppings.
# Notes:
01 -
Using coarse or medium-grind cornmeal is essential for the right texture.
02 -
Whisking the cornmeal into cold liquid is the secret to lump-free polenta.
03 -
This recipe is easily scaled up or down, just maintain the 1-to-4 ratio of polenta to liquid.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot
02 -
Whisk
03 -
Measuring cups
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 260
Total Fat: 13g
Total Carbohydrate: 27g
Protein: 9g