Valentine Dinner Baked Polenta Rounds

Name: Valentine Dinner Baked Polenta Rounds
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Special Kitchen

I absolutely love making these baked polenta rounds for special occasions, especially for Valentine’s Day. The crispy edges and creamy center create a delightful contrast that feels elegant yet comforting. It’s always a hit at dinner parties, and they’re versatile enough to be paired with various toppings, from sautéed mushrooms to a fresh marinara sauce. Each bite feels like a little piece of heaven, making it a romantic dish that’s easy to prepare. I'm excited to share this recipe with you, so let’s dive in!

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:45:35.660Z

When I first tried these baked polenta rounds, I was amazed by how easy and delicious they turned out. The bottom layer of crispy polenta adds a satisfying texture, while the creamy inside melts in your mouth. One of my favorite tips is to let the polenta cool before cutting it, which helps to achieve the perfect shape and prevents any sticking.

To make them extra special, I often serve these rounds with a drizzle of homemade herb-infused oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish. The versatility of these polenta rounds means I can change the toppings depending on what I have on hand or what I’m craving.

        Why You'll Love These Baked Polenta Rounds
        Crispy exterior with a creamy, flavorful center
Versatile for various toppings, making them adaptable for any occasion
Elegantly impressive yet simple to prepare for a romantic dinner

      

The Art of Baked Polenta

Baked polenta rounds are a wonderful canvas for culinary creativity. The polenta itself, made from finely ground cornmeal, delivers a rich, comforting base with a slightly nutty flavor. The key to achieving a perfect texture is ensuring the polenta is stirred continuously while cooking; this prevents lumps and results in a smooth, creamy mixture. Once baked, the exterior crisps up beautifully, creating a delightful contrast to the tender inside—an essential characteristic for an impressive appetizer or side dish.

If you’re new to working with polenta, take note that it thickens as it cooks, so patience is crucial. Be prepared to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on your specific stovetop heat. You want it to be thick enough to hold its shape when cooled, yet still creamy—think of it like a soft porridge before it sets. Adding in the Parmesan cheese enhances richness and depth, elevating the overall taste while helping the polenta firm up appropriately.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking the polenta rounds at a high temperature is critical in achieving that golden, crispy finish. Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) ensures that the edges crisp up quickly while allowing the center to remain creamy. For best results, arrange the rounds spaced apart on the baking sheet, allowing hot air to circulate freely around them. This technique leads to an even bake and prevents steaming, which can make them soggy instead of crispy.

If you want to maximize flavor, consider seasoning the polenta mixture before it cools, adding garlic powder or chili flakes for an extra kick. Additionally, if you’re making these rounds ahead of time, you can bake them until they are just set, then store them in the fridge. Finish baking them just before serving to achieve the perfect crispness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a successful dish:

Main Ingredients

1 cup polenta
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious baked polenta rounds:

Prepare the Polenta

In a large pot, bring the water and salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until thickened.

Add Cheese and Cool

Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix thoroughly. Pour the polenta into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Allow it to cool for about 15 minutes until firm.

Cut and Bake

Once cooled, cut the polenta into rounds using a cookie cutter or a glass. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the rounds on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs or your favorite toppings and serve warm. Enjoy the delightful textures and flavors!

Enjoy the process and savor the results!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment with different cheeses, or add spices to your polenta while cooking. Serving with a rich tomato sauce or a simple herb oil can elevate the dish even more.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to toppings for your baked polenta rounds, the options are abundant. For a savory approach, sautéed mushrooms with garlic and thyme provide a rich, umami flavor that pairs beautifully. Alternatively, a fresh marinara sauce adds a bright, tangy contrast, enhancing the dish's overall appeal. You can also consider fresh avocado slices or even a dollop of goat cheese for a creamy, decadent experience.

For an elegant presentation, layer your toppings artfully. Consider stacking a polenta round with sliced tomatoes and mozzarella, then sprinkle fresh basil on top for a Caprese twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, use different cheeses like blue cheese or feta for a more pronounced flavor. Don't forget to add herbs as a garnish—they not only enhance visual appeal but also impart freshness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Baked polenta rounds can be a great make-ahead option for busy hosts. You can prepare the polenta a day in advance, cool it, and cut it into rounds. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat and bake them for that crispy finish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again—this method avoids the microwave's sogginess, ensuring your polenta rounds retain their delightful texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make baked polenta rounds ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and refrigerate the polenta ahead of time. Just reheat in the oven before serving.

→ What are some good toppings for polenta rounds?

You can use sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, or even a fresh salad on top.

→ Is polenta gluten-free?

Yes, polenta is made from cornmeal and is naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I make the polenta rounds spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the polenta while it cooks for an extra kick.