Italian Beef and Polenta Bake

Name: Italian Beef and Polenta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cornmeal; 4 cups water; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp butter; Salt to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Italian Beef and Polenta Bake for family gatherings. This dish is a comforting blend of seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy polenta, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. The layers of flavors develop beautifully as it bakes, creating a warm, inviting aroma that fills my kitchen. I take great joy in serving generous portions topped with cheese, which gets all melty and golden brown. It's the perfect dish to bring everyone together around the table for a hearty meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:16:59.693Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to create a dish that brought together my love for Italian flavors and comfort food. The key is to simmer the beef until it is tender and infused with the tomato sauce, which gives it that rich, satisfying taste. Pairing it with creamy polenta not only adds a wonderful texture but also makes the dish more filling.

One of my favorite tips is to let the polenta cool slightly before spreading it on top of the beef. This creates a sturdy base that holds up when baked, ensuring each serving looks beautiful and holds together nicely. Trust me, this little step is worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty layers of beef and creamy polenta create a comforting meal.
Rich tomato sauce enhances the flavor of the dish.
Perfect for sharing at family gatherings or potlucks.

      

The Importance of Layering Flavors

Layering flavors is crucial in this Italian Beef and Polenta Bake, as it builds depth and complexity in every bite. The ground beef mixture simmers with crushed tomatoes, herbs, and spices, allowing each element to meld into a rich, savory base. This step, which takes roughly 10 minutes, enhances the overall taste, ensuring that every spoonful is filled with robust flavor. Don't rush it; letting the mixture sit allows the flavors to marry beautifully.

Polenta plays a dual role: it adds creaminess and acts as a perfect counterbalance to the seasoned beef. When preparing polenta, ensure to whisk continuously as you pour in the cornmeal. This prevents lumps from forming and helps create that smooth, velvety texture that enhances the dish's comfort factor. The addition of Parmesan cheese when off the heat adds depth, taking the polenta flavor to a new level.

Baking to Perfection

Baking this dish is where the real magic happens. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat fully before placing your baking dish inside. This is essential for ensuring that the cheese melts evenly and bubbles beautifully. The bake typically takes about 20 minutes; however, keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent the cheese from burning. You want it to be golden and slightly browned, signaling that it’s ready to serve.

It’s crucial to let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This rest period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve while retaining its shape. Cutting too soon can lead to a messy serving experience. While the aroma will be tempting, I recommend giving it 5 to 10 minutes to help the flavors settle and achieve that perfect slice.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Italian Beef and Polenta Bake:

For the Beef Layer

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Polenta Layer

1 cup cornmeal
4 cups water
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
Salt to taste

For Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to assemble your bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Italian Beef and Polenta Bake:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, onions, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat and stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Prepare the Polenta

In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until thickened.

Remove from heat and stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, and salt.

Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly on the bottom. Top with a layer of polenta, smoothing it out.

Finish with mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your hearty Italian Beef and Polenta Bake!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, try sprinkling some fresh herbs on top just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten things up a bit, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These leaner options will still absorb the flavors of the sauce and keep the overall profile satisfying without being overly heavy. However, it’s important to note that ground turkey may require additional seasoning, so taste and adjust as necessary before assembling the bake.

For a gluten-free alternative to cornmeal, you can substitute with polenta or use a gluten-free blend for the topping. Adjust the cooking time slightly – some blends may thicken quicker or slower, so always check for the right consistency. This adaptability can ensure everyone at your table can enjoy this heartwarming meal.

Storage and Reheating

This Italian Beef and Polenta Bake stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label them so you can easily identify your homemade meal later on.

When reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the center is heated through. If you prefer, you can microwave individual portions for quicker meals, but keep an eye on it to avoid overheating and drying out the polenta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and polenta layers in advance and assemble them when you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this bake.

→ Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Yes, ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option work great in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.