Description
Baked Polenta is the quintessential Italian comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Imagine layers of creamy polenta enveloped in rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and fragrant basil leaves. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and enjoy cozy moments with loved ones. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this easy baked polenta is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 3/4 cups dried polenta
- 7 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 6 ounces smoked gouda (shredded)
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 20 large fresh basil leaves
- 2 large fresh mozzarella balls (16 oz total)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta and salt, then simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Stir in the basil pesto and smoked gouda until well combined.
- Pour the polenta mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25 minutes until golden.
- Remove from the oven and layer marinara sauce over the polenta, followed by fresh basil leaves and mozzarella slices.
- Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg