Easy Oven-Baked Real Polenta (Not Instant)

Easy Oven-Baked Real Polenta (Not Instant)
  • PREP TIME
    10 mins
  • COOK TIME
    50 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    1 hrs 10 mins
  • SERVING
    4 People
  • VIEWS
    15

Embrace the ease of oven-baked polenta! This creamy, comforting dish requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. Infused with the sweetness of butternut squash, the tang of sour cream, and the sharpness of cheddar, it’s a delightful alternative to the stovetop method. Perfect as a base for roasted vegetables or a hearty side dish.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    32 g
  • Cholesterol
    34 mg
  • Fiber
    3 g
  • Protein
    11 g
  • Saturated Fat
    8 g
  • Sodium
    533 mg
  • Sugar
    2 g
  • Fat
    15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Generously grease a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray. (5 minutes)

02

Step

Pour water into the prepared dish. Gradually whisk in polenta and add salt to taste, ensuring there are no lumps. (5 minutes)

03

Step

Bake in the preheated oven until the polenta is thickened and creamy, about 40 minutes. (40 minutes)

04

Step

Remove from oven and gently stir in mashed butternut squash, sour cream, and grated Cheddar cheese until well combined. (5 minutes)

05

Step

Return to the oven and continue baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes more. (10 minutes)

06

Step

Let stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow the polenta to set slightly. (10 minutes)

For a richer flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
Experiment with different cheese! Gruyere, Parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses work wonderfully.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor.
To prevent a skin from forming while baking, stir the polenta halfway through the baking time.
Polenta is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

Brenda Konopelski

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: 5.0/ 5 ( 5 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (6)
  • Bernhard Gerhold

    I added some roasted garlic to the polenta – delicious!

  • Dorris Christiansen

    The baking method makes the polenta so creamy, perfect every time.

  • Wilma Feeney

    My kids even loved this! A great way to sneak in some veggies.

  • Tanner Gleason

    This recipe is so much easier than stirring polenta on the stovetop!

  • Assunta Corkery

    The butternut squash adds a wonderful sweetness.

  • Anibal Weissnat

    I’ve made this several times, and it's always a hit!

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