Cheddar Polenta with Roasted Winter Veg

Creamy cheddar polenta topped with caramelized winter vegetables and herbs for a cozy vegetarian dinner.

👅Flavor: Buttery, cheesy polenta balanced by sweet roasted squash, Brussels sprouts, and red onion.
Creamy polenta topped with roasted winter vegetables
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Prep Time
15 minutes
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Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
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Servings
4 bowls
easy
Cuisine
American
Exotic level
cozy-bowl
Difficulty
easy
Diet
vegetarian, gluten-free
Devices used
Oven, Stovetop
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Explore this recipe

Required Equipment

  • Sheet pan
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Utilized Devices

OvenStovetop

Cooking Techniques

  • roasting
  • simmering
  • whisking
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Ingredients

  • 420 gButternut squashpeeled and cubed
  • 300 gBrussels sproutshalved
  • 150 gRed onionsliced into wedges
  • 30 mlOlive oil
  • 15 mlMaple syrup
  • 6 gKosher saltdivided
  • 1 gFreshly ground black pepper
  • 170 gCoarse yellow cornmeal
  • 720 mlVegetable broth
  • 240 mlWhole milk
  • 28 gUnsalted butter
  • 100 gShredded sharp cheddar
  • 6 gFresh parsleychopped
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Instructions

1

Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the squash, Brussels sprouts, and red onion with the olive oil, maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Roast on a sheet pan until caramelized, 22 to 25 minutes.

2

Meanwhile, bring the broth and milk to a simmer in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal and remaining salt.

3

Cook the polenta over low heat, stirring often, until thick and creamy, 12 to 15 minutes.

4

Stir in the butter and cheddar until melted and smooth.

5

Spoon polenta into bowls and top with the roasted vegetables and parsley.

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Chef Tips

  • Keep the polenta warm over very low heat with a splash of milk if it thickens too quickly.
  • Cut the squash pieces evenly so everything caramelizes at the same pace.
  • Finish with a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
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Nutritional Highlights

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Calories per serving
520
  • Comforting gluten-free dinner option
  • Roasted vegetables add fiber and vitamin A
  • Cheddar provides calcium and protein

Dietary Notes

Compliant With

vegetariangluten-free

Allergens

  • Contains dairy (butter, cheddar, milk)

FAQ

Can I use instant polenta?

Yes—follow the package timing, then stir in the butter and cheddar once it thickens.

What other vegetables work here?

Try roasted carrots, cauliflower, or fennel for a similar sweet-savory topping.

Nutrition

Calories520
Protein18 g
Carbs62 g
Fat23 g