This cozy Italian Polenta Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! It layers creamy polenta with tasty vegetables and melted cheese, bringing everyone together at the dinner table.
Nothing beats the smooth, cheesy goodness combined with fresh toppings. I love throwing in whatever veggies I have on hand. It’s like a party in my oven! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Polenta: This coarse cornmeal is the star of the dish, providing a creamy base. You can use instant polenta for faster cooking, but the texture will differ slightly. If you’re gluten-free, polenta is a great option!
Ground Meat: I usually go for ground beef for its rich flavor, but Italian sausage adds fantastic seasoning. You can swap it for turkey or vegetarian options like lentils or crumbled tofu for a meatless version.
Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite store-bought sauce saves time. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade sauce can elevate the dish! Just simmer tomatoes with garlic, onion, and herbs for a fresh taste.
Cheese: I love using a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for that perfect melt. If you’re lactose intolerant, try vegan cheese alternatives or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter meal. You can still enjoy the flavors!
How Do You Make Creamy Polenta?
Cooking polenta can seem tricky, but it’s all about patience! Start by boiling water or broth, then slowly whisk in the polenta to prevent lumps. Here’s a simple way to get it creamy:
- Bring water or broth to a gentle boil.
- Whisk the polenta in slowly to avoid clumping. Stir continuously for about 20-25 minutes on low heat.
- For extra creaminess, stir in butter and Parmesan cheese at the end, then season to taste.
Take your time, and you’ll have a deliciously smooth polenta as the base for your casserole!
Italian Polenta Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Polenta:
- 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
- 4 cups water or broth (for cooking polenta)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for baking. You’ll spend around 20-25 minutes cooking the polenta and making the meat sauce, plus some waiting time while it bakes. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that warms up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Polenta:
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil. As it’s bubbling, slowly whisk in the polenta, turning down the heat to low. Cook while stirring frequently until the mixture is thick and creamy, which should take about 20-25 minutes.
3. Mix in Cheese and Spread:
Once the polenta is creamy, remove it from the heat. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper. Now spread this delicious mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spoon, for about 7-8 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat.
5. Combine Sauce Ingredients:
Stir in the marinara sauce along with the dried Italian herbs. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, adding salt and pepper to your taste.
6. Layer the Casserole:
Now it’s time to assemble! Spread the meat sauce evenly over the layer of polenta. If you’re using ricotta cheese, dollop it over the sauce, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is lovely and melted with a golden brown top. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, serve it with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top for that extra flavor boost. Enjoy your comforting, cheesy Italian Polenta Casserole!
Can I Use Instant Polenta Instead of Regular Polenta?
Yes, you can absolutely use instant polenta for a quicker preparation! Just follow the package instructions, which usually require less cooking time than traditional polenta. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still work well in the casserole.
What Vegetables Can I Add to the Casserole?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions. Just make sure to cook them beforehand to remove excess moisture, which can prevent the casserole from getting too soggy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking it again at 375°F (190°C) until warm and bubbly.