Baked Polenta Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy

Baked polenta is a wonderfully comforting dish that combines simplicity with rich, creamy textures and a lovely golden crust. Perfect as a hearty vegan main or a versatile side, this recipe transforms basic ingredients into a dish that feels both rustic and elegant.

If you’ve ever been intimidated by polenta, this baked version is the perfect place to start—it’s easy to make, forgiving, and packed with flavor. Whether served warm out of the oven or cooled and sliced for a crispy pan-fry later, baked polenta is a crowd-pleaser that fits effortlessly into weeknight dinners or special occasions.

What makes baked polenta especially delightful is how customizable it is. You can infuse it with fresh herbs, roasted vegetables, or your favorite vegan cheese substitutes to tailor it to your tastes.

It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an inclusive option for many dietary needs. Let’s dive into this delicious vegan baked polenta recipe that will soon become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked polenta recipe is not only vegan but also incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time. The creamy texture inside combined with a slightly crisp baked crust creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite satisfying.

It uses pantry staples like cornmeal and vegetable broth, and you can customize it with herbs and spices to suit your flavor preferences. Plus, baked polenta is versatile—you can serve it as a base for stews, roasted veggies, or even slice and grill it for sandwiches and snacks.

Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free comfort food or a wholesome vegan side, this recipe ticks all the boxes and will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal (polenta)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (for richer flavor, or water)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• Baking dish (8×8 inch or similar)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board (for garlic and garnishes)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Heat the vegetable broth in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it’s just about to boil.
3. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal to the hot broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to low.
4. Cook the polenta gently for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
5. Stir in the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, nutritional yeast, and dried herbs if using. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
6. Pour the polenta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top as best as you can.
7. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the edges turn golden and the top is slightly firm to the touch.
8. Remove from oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the polenta set further, making it easier to slice.
9. Slice and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or your favorite vegan toppings.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier polenta, stir in a splash of unsweetened plant milk or vegan butter before baking.

You can also experiment with adding roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini layered on top before baking for a complete meal. If you want a cheesy crust, sprinkle some vegan cheese or extra nutritional yeast on top before placing in the oven.

To make polenta slices crispy, cool the baked polenta completely, then cut into squares or triangles and pan-fry in a little oil until golden on both sides. This makes a fantastic base for toppings or vegan sandwiches.

For an herby twist, try mixing in fresh basil, chives, or oregano instead of dried herbs. And if you like a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes added during cooking is a nice touch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Baked polenta pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a hearty vegetable stew or ratatouille for a comforting vegan dinner.

You can also top it with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or a dollop of tomato sauce for added flavor.

For brunch, try it with avocado slices and fresh tomato salad. Leftover baked polenta can be sliced, grilled, and used as a base for vegan “cheese” melts or sandwiches.

Looking for more delicious vegan recipes? Check out this Half Runner Beans Recipe or the rich and moist Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a delightful snack.

Conclusion

Baked polenta is a fantastic addition to any vegan kitchen, offering a versatile, nourishing, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its creamy texture combined with a crisp baked finish makes it a comforting treat that everyone can enjoy.

Whether you’re new to cooking with polenta or a seasoned pro, this recipe is designed to be flexible and forgiving, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes and dietary preferences.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also budget-friendly and packed with wholesome ingredients that keep you satisfied. Give this baked polenta recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite comfort food.

For more tasty ideas, explore our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the sweet and fluffy Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

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