Valentine Dinner Baked Polenta Rounds

Name: Valentine Dinner Baked Polenta Rounds
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup sautéed mushrooms; Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish

Highlighted under: Inspired Meals

I always look forward to creating something special for Valentine’s Day, and these baked polenta rounds have become a favorite of mine. With their crispy exterior and creamy interior, they make the perfect base for a variety of toppings. I love that they offer a unique twist on romantic dinners, combining flavors that surprise and delight. Whether serving them as an appetizer or a side dish, their versatility and charm make them an essential part of our Valentine’s celebrations.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:29:34.930Z

Experimenting with polenta during last year’s Valentine’s Day led me to create these delicious baked rounds. After numerous trials, I discovered that baking instead of frying gives them that golden crispiness without compromising their delicate texture. Pairing them with toppings like sautéed mushrooms or spicy marinara sauce truly elevates the experience.

What I learned in the process is to let the polenta cool completely before slicing it into rounds. This step ensures they hold their shape during baking and prevents them from falling apart. Trust me, your Valentine will appreciate the extra effort!

        You'll Love These Polenta Rounds Because
        Crispy edges that give way to a creamy center
Endless topping options for personalization
Elegant presentation for a romantic dinner

      

Polenta’s Unique Texture

The key to achieving the perfect polenta texture lies in the cooking technique. When adding the polenta to boiling vegetable broth, make sure to whisk continuously. This prevents clumping and allows the polenta to absorb the liquid evenly. The resulting mixture should be smooth and creamy. If you notice any lumps forming, whisk more vigorously and cook for an additional minute or two until the polenta is glossy and thickened to your liking.

Letting the polenta cool to firm up is just as critical as cooking it properly. After you’ve spread it onto the baking sheet, cover it lightly with plastic wrap to avoid drying out. The cooling time should be at least 30 minutes, but if you can, allow it an hour or even longer in the refrigerator. This helps it set firmly, making it easier to cut clean rounds that won’t fall apart when baked.

Creative Topping Pairings

While marinara sauce and sautéed mushrooms are classic toppings, feel free to explore other flavor combinations that suit your palate. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tangy note, while a mix of roasted bell peppers and goat cheese can elevate the dish into a gourmet experience. Consider topping the polenta rounds with a spoonful of pesto or a medley of caramelized onions and crumbled blue cheese for a savory twist.

For a heartier option, try adding a slice of prosciutto or a layer of cooked spinach atop each round before drizzling with sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a burst of color, making your dish visually appealing. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re adding more moisture from these toppings to ensure the polenta remains crispy.

Ingredients

For the Polenta

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste

For the Topping

1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup sautéed mushrooms
Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Polenta

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and olive oil, then season with salt.

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Pour the polenta onto a lined baking sheet and spread it evenly, about 1 inch thick. Allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes until firm.

Slice and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once cooled, cut the polenta into rounds using a cookie cutter. Place them on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Add the Toppings

Warm the marinara sauce and sauté the mushrooms. Top each polenta round with either the sauce or mushrooms, or both, and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Serve immediately for the best taste.

Pro Tips

Ensure the polenta mixture is thick enough to hold its shape when sliced. Experiment with different toppings to impress your Valentine!

Storing and Reheating

Baked polenta rounds can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, achieving a crispy texture on the edges again, which is always a plus.

If you want to make ahead, prepare the polenta and cut it into rounds, then store them in the fridge before baking. This allows you to save time on your Valentine’s Day dinner, making it easier to focus on your other preparations. Just be sure to bake them right before serving to maintain their ideal texture.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it simple to serve a larger crowd. You can multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, keeping the ratios consistent. Just ensure you have a larger baking sheet or multiple sheets ready to accommodate all the polenta rounds to ensure even cooking and crisping.

Remember that baking times may vary slightly with larger batches. Keep an eye on them and check for a golden-brown color, as each oven behaves differently. This adaptability makes these polenta rounds a fantastic choice for any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the polenta in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the polenta ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

For a vegan option, nutritional yeast works well to provide a cheesy flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the polenta rounds?

Yes, freeze the baked rounds in a single layer and then transfer them to a bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.