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Polenta
Polenta, a staple of Northern Italian cuisine, is a comforting dish made by cooking cornmeal into a creamy, porridge-like base. This version is baked with tomato, cheese, and green pepper for added flavor and substance. Traditionally served as a hearty main or side dish, this recipe showcases the transformation of simple pantry staples into something rich, satisfying, and versatile. Ideal for weeknight meals or cozy gatherings, it can also be layered with meats or vegetables for a complete dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 3 cups boiling water
  • ½ tbsp salt
  • ¼ cup butter (or margarine)
  • 1 onion (medium, chopped)
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 1½ cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
  • 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or similar)
  • 2 tbsp green pepper (minced )
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Cornmeal

  • Bring 3 cups of water to a boil.
  • Add 1 cup cornmeal and ½ tbsp salt gradually while stirring to prevent lumps.
  • Cook until thickened.
  • Cool and cut into cubes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  • Sauté 1 chopped onion in ¼ cup butter.
  • Remove from heat.
  • Stir in 3 tbsp flour until smooth.
  • Gradually add 1½ cup tomato sauce, stirring until thickened.
  • Add 1 cup grated cheese, stir until melted.
  • Stir in 2 tbsp minced green pepper and 1 tsp salt.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  • Place cornmeal cubes in a greased baking dish.
  • Pour sauce over cubes and toss gently to combine.
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.

Tips

  • Substitute vegetable broth for water for added flavor.
  • Use mozzarella or Parmesan in place of cheddar.
  • Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or mushrooms for a heartier version.
  • Stir in fresh herbs like basil or oregano for added depth.
  • Try layering the dish like lasagna with sauce between layers of sliced polenta.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 5gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 390mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword baked casserole, cheesy bake, comfort food, cornmeal, family-style, polenta, savory, vintage recipe
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