Name: Baked Polenta with Oven Roasted Mushrooms: A Comforting Culinary Experience
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup coarse or medium-ground cornmeal; 4 cups water, milk, or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Roasted Mushrooms: 1 pound mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or a mix); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese; Balsamic glaze drizzle

Description

A comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring creamy baked polenta with a golden crust, topped with caramelized oven-roasted mushrooms. Garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this versatile recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

- - 1 cup coarse or medium-ground cornmeal
  - 4 cups water, milk, or vegetable broth
  - 1 teaspoon salt
  - 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Roasted Mushrooms:
  - 1 pound mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or a mix)
  - 2 tablespoons olive oil
  - 3 garlic cloves, minced
  - 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  - ½ teaspoon salt
  - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional Garnishes:
  - Fresh parsley, chopped
  - Grated Parmesan cheese
  - Balsamic glaze drizzle

Instructions

Prepare the Polenta:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the liquid (water, milk, or broth) to a boil.
- Gradually whisk in the cornmeal to prevent clumps.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring regularly, until the mixture thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
- Stir in butter or olive oil and Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Pour the polenta into a greased baking dish, smoothing the surface evenly.
Bake the Polenta:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the polenta for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
Prepare the Mushrooms:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean mushrooms with a damp cloth and slice if necessary.
- Toss mushrooms with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and tender.
Assemble the Dish:
- Remove the polenta from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Slice the polenta into squares or wedges.
- Top each piece with the roasted mushrooms.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Serve Immediately:
- Plate the polenta while warm, paired with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

For a vegan version, replace butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Store leftovers in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat polenta in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking and Roasting
Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: #ComfortFood, #Vegetarian, #ItalianCuisine, #EasyRecipes, #WeeknightDinners