Creamy Baked Polenta Squares Recipe

Introduction

Polenta is a versatile and comforting dish that can be served creamy or set and sliced for a crispy finish. This recipe shows you how to make quick-cook polenta with a cheesy twist, perfect for air frying into golden, crispy squares.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for the tin
• 500ml vegetable or chicken stock
• 125g quick-cook polenta
• 40g parmesan or vegetarian alternative, grated
• 25g butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Oil and line a swiss roll tin (about 31cm x 23cm) with baking parchment. This will help you remove the polenta easily once set.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and stock, then bring to a simmer.
3. Step 3: Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
4. Step 4: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated cheese and butter until fully melted and combined.
5. Step 5: Pour the polenta into the prepared tin and smooth the surface. Let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour until firm.
6. Step 6: Once set, cut the polenta into 16-24 evenly sized pieces.
7. Step 7: Arrange the polenta pieces in a single layer in your air fryer tray. Cook at 200°C for 15-20 minutes or until the pieces are golden and crispy.
8. Step 8: Serve warm with your favorite toppings or as a side dish.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock.
• Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the polenta while cooking for extra aroma.
• Substitute parmesan with a vegetarian or vegan cheese alternative if preferred.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure your stock and cheese alternatives contain no gluten.

Storage

Chill the set polenta covered in the fridge for up to three days before cooking. Cooked polenta pieces can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for one day. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular polenta instead of quick-cook?

Yes, but regular polenta requires a longer cooking time and more frequent stirring to prevent lumps.

What toppings work well with air-fried polenta?

Polenta pairs beautifully with tomato sauce, sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a drizzle of pesto. You can also serve it with dips or savory spreads for a snack.

Creamy Baked Polenta Squares Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 133 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 16–24 pieces 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A simple and delicious recipe for crispy air-fried polenta squares made with quick-cook polenta, parmesan, and butter. This dish is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side, offering a golden crunchy exterior with a creamy, cheesy interior.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Polenta Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for the tin
• 500ml vegetable or chicken stock
• 125g quick-cook polenta
• 40g parmesan or vegetarian alternative, grated
• 25g butter

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Tin: Oil and line a swiss roll tin (approximately 31cm x 23cm) with baking parchment to prevent sticking when pouring in the polenta mixture.
2. Cook the Polenta: Place a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and stock, then bring to a simmer. Slowly pour in the polenta while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
3. Add Cheese and Butter: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated parmesan and butter until fully melted and incorporated into the polenta for a rich, creamy texture.
4. Set the Polenta: Pour the cooked polenta into the prepared swiss roll tin, smoothing the surface. Allow it to cool and set at room temperature for 1 hour until firm enough to cut into pieces.
5. Cut into Pieces: Once set, cut the polenta into 16-24 squares, depending on your preferred size.
6. Air Fry the Polenta: Arrange the polenta pieces in a single layer in the air fryer tray. Cook at 200°C (392°F) for 15-20 minutes until the pieces are golden and crispy on the outside.
7. Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite toppings or dips. The polenta can be kept chilled for up to three days before air frying, and cooked polenta pieces will keep for one day in an airtight container.

Notes

• You can use either vegetable or chicken stock depending on your preference or dietary needs.
• For a vegetarian option, use vegetarian parmesan or a suitable cheese alternative.
• Make sure to stir the polenta constantly during cooking to avoid lumps and achieve the right consistency.
• The air fryer gives the polenta a delightful crispness without needing to deep fry.
• These polenta squares can be customized with various toppings like tomato sauce, herbs, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Store uncooked polenta squares in the refrigerator for up to three days before air frying.
• Cooked polenta squares are best eaten the same day for maximum crispiness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: polenta, air fryer polenta, crispy polenta squares, vegetarian appetizer, quick polenta recipe, Italian side dish