Margherita Baked Polenta

Name: Margherita Baked Polenta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup instant polenta; 4 cups water; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 cups fresh tomatoes (diced or sliced); 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese (cubed); Fresh basil leaves (for garnish); Salt and pepper (to taste)

Published: August 8, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Margherita Baked Polenta is effortless to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends
Its rich flavor profile combines creamy polenta with vibrant tomatoes and melted mozzarella for a comforting treat
The dish looks stunning when plated, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal
Versatile enough to serve as a main course or side dish, it caters to various dietary preferences effortlessly

I recall making this dish for my family last summer; their smiles were priceless when they took that first cheesy bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious pumpkin scones.

Polenta: Use instant polenta for quick preparation; it cooks up beautifully creamy and smooth.
Fresh Tomatoes: Opt for ripe tomatoes for maximum sweetness; diced or sliced will work perfectly.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella gives you that delightful stretchy texture; try to avoid pre-shredded versions.
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil for flavor; add it just before serving for the best taste.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the top before baking.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all the flavors in this dish; adjust according to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean Chicken Recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Polenta Base: In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and whisk in 1 cup of instant polenta. Stir continuously until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Add Flavorful Ingredients: Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil until well blended and creamy.

Create Layers of Goodness: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the polenta into a greased baking dish evenly across the bottom.

Top with Tomatoes and Cheese: Layer sliced tomatoes over the polenta base, followed by generous chunks of fresh mozzarella cheese scattered on top. fresh mango avocado salsa.

Add More Polenta and Finish Up: Spread the remaining polenta over the cheese layer neatly. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before placing it in the oven.

Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown on top and bubbly throughout. Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves.

Now you have a scrumptious dish ready to impress! Grab some forks and dig into this delightful Margherita Baked Polenta experience!

You Must Know

Margherita Baked Polenta is not just delicious; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl
This dish combines the creamy texture of polenta with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil, making it a perfect comfort food
It’s simple yet elegant, ideal for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the polenta until creamy, then blend in cheese and herbs. While it cools, prepare your tomato sauce for optimal flavors.

Add Your Touch

Experiment with different cheeses like goat or feta for a unique twist. Add sautéed vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For best results, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged to enhance flavor
Make sure to stir polenta continuously while cooking for even texture
Don’t skip the fresh basil; it adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish

Creating this dish always brings back memories of my friends gathering around the table, devouring every last bite while sharing stories and laughter.

FAQ

What can I use instead of polenta?

You can substitute cornmeal or even mashed potatoes for a similar texture. comforting potato dumplings.

Can I make Margherita Baked Polenta vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based cheese and replace butter with olive oil for a vegan option.

How do I know when polenta is done?

Polenta is ready when it pulls away from the sides of the pot and has a creamy texture.