Valentine Dinner Baked Polenta Rounds

Name: Valentine Dinner Baked Polenta Rounds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or basil)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Collection

I love hosting dinner parties, especially for special occasions like Valentine's Day. This recipe for baked polenta rounds is a delightful addition to any romantic dinner. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with a rich sauce or fresh toppings, making it a versatile dish that impresses every time. Preparing these rounds is quite simple, and they can be made ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the evening with my loved ones. Trust me, you’ll find these elegant bites will steal the show at your dinner table!

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:33:34.604Z

When I first experimented with baked polenta rounds, I was pleasantly surprised by how versatile they are. One evening, I paired them with a homemade marinara sauce and sautéed mushrooms, and the flavors danced on my palate. Each bite captures the essence of comfort food with an elegant touch.

This dish is perfect for impressing guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The secret lies in allowing the polenta to fully set before slicing. It gives structure, so they hold their shape beautifully when baked. Trust me; your guests will come back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy edges with a creamy center that melt in your mouth
Endless topping options from savory to sweet
Perfect as an appetizer or paired with a sauce for a main dish

Perfecting the Polenta Texture

The key to achieving the right texture in your polenta begins with the cooking process. After adding the cornmeal to boiling water, make sure to continuously whisk to avoid any lumps, which can ruin the smooth texture. Once thickened, you should see the mixture pulling away from the sides of the saucepan, indicating it's ready to incorporate the olive oil and Parmesan cheese. This step not only enriches the flavor but also adds to the creamy consistency that you want in your baked rounds.

Allowing the polenta to set properly makes a significant difference in the final product. If you rush this step, you may end up with rounds that crumble when sliced. A good cooling time of at least 30 minutes is essential, but for best results, consider chilling it for an hour or more in the refrigerator. This not only helps firm up the polenta but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Baking Your Baked Rounds

When it comes to baking the rounds, having an accurately preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) is crucial. This high temperature ensures that you achieve those golden, crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the soft center. Make sure to watch them closely during the last few minutes of baking, as the timing may vary based on your oven calibration. The ideal texture is when they’re golden brown on the outside and slightly firm to the touch, so be ready to pull them out as soon as you see those visual cues.

Brush the rounds with olive oil before baking for an extra layer of flavor and enhanced browning. If you're looking for a bit of variety, experiment with different cheese toppings. A sharper cheese like aged cheddar or a blue cheese can provide a delightful contrast to the sweet cornmeal base. For those avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for enhancing flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the perfect polenta rounds:

Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or basil)

Customize your toppings to suit your taste and impress your guests!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delightful polenta rounds:

Prepare the Polenta

In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 15 minutes until thickened. Stir in the olive oil and Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined.

Set and Slice

Pour the polenta mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool and set for at least 30 minutes. Once set, turn the polenta out onto a cutting board and slice it into rounds.

Bake the Rounds

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, arrange the polenta rounds in a single layer. Brush them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the baked polenta rounds with fresh herbs and serve warm, topped with your choice of sauces or toppings. Enjoy your romantic dinner!

Looking for delicious topping ideas? Try sautéed mushrooms, marinara sauce, or even pesto!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, experiment with different cheeses in the polenta mixture, like mozzarella or feta.

Serving Suggestions

These baked polenta rounds can serve as a delightful appetizer or as part of the main course. Try pairing them with a rich tomato sauce for a comforting dish, or top them with sautéed mushrooms and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elevated edge. The versatility of polenta makes it easy to adapt to various cuisines, so feel free to experiment with different toppings based on your dinner theme.

For a lighter option, consider serving the rounds with fresh vegetables and a zesty herb dip, creating a perfect balance between richness and freshness. Play with seasonal ingredients too—roasted peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even a fresh avocado salsa can brighten the dish and add more depth of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning for a busy evening, these baked polenta rounds can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Prepare the polenta and form the rounds, then chill them as instructed. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven; you may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.

For longer-term storage, the unbaked polenta rounds can also be frozen. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake from frozen, just increase the baking time again, checking for that golden-brown finish to ensure they are warmed through and crispy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make polenta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the polenta in advance, let it set, and then bake it just before serving.

→ What can I serve on top of the polenta rounds?

The options are endless! Try marinara sauce, sautéed vegetables, or even a dollop of ricotta cheese for a creamy finish.

→ Can I freeze the polenta rounds?

Yes! Once baked, you can freeze them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, polenta is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.