Description
This Roasted Mushroom Polenta Bake is a cozy, hearty dish that brings together creamy polenta, roasted mushrooms, and fresh thyme, all topped with grated Parmigiano Reggiano for a rich, savory finish. It’s an easy, oven-baked recipe that makes for a comforting vegetarian meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mushrooms:
- 1 to 1.25 lbs. mushrooms (any variety or mix)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp vinegar (white, red, apple cider, or white balsamic)
- 1 tsp kosher salt (Diamond Crystal; use 1/2 tsp if using Morton)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Polenta Bake:
- 1 cup polenta
- 6 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Grated Parmigiano Reggiano, to taste (or 2 tbsp heavy cream)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Trim off tough stems (if using shiitakes) and cut or tear the mushrooms into 1-inch pieces. Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and black pepper, tossing to coat. Roast for 20 minutes until they develop some color.
- Cook the Polenta: In a large oven-safe skillet, bring 6 cups of water to a simmer. While whisking constantly, slowly add the polenta in a steady stream. Continue whisking for 2 minutes to incorporate. Reduce heat to low, add kosher salt, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until thick and tender. Stir in olive oil, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and remove from heat.
- Assemble the Bake: Spread the roasted mushrooms evenly over the polenta. Sprinkle with thyme and black pepper.
- Bake: Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
- Serve: Top with more parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Serve warm with extra salt and pepper on the side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg