Craving a crispy, golden snack? These Oven-Baked Polenta Fries are the perfect alternative to regular fries, with a crunchy exterior and soft, creamy interior. They’re easy to make, and they’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. I make these for everything from casual dinners to snack time, and my family always asks for more!
These fries are a great way to change up your side dish game. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, so they’re a little bit healthier but still full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love Oven-Baked Polenta Fries
These fries have a satisfying crunch with the added bonus of being gluten-free! They’re full of flavor from the cornmeal and herbs, and the best part? You don’t even need to fry them. Just pop them in the oven and let them crisp up beautifully. You’ll be hooked after the first bite!
What You’ll Need to Make Oven-Baked Polenta Fries
- 1 cup polenta (cornmeal)
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Oven-Baked Polenta Fries
- Cook the polenta: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the polenta and reduce the heat to low. Continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Season the polenta: Remove the polenta from heat and stir in the olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. You can also mix in some Parmesan cheese if you like!
- Shape the fries: Spread the cooked polenta onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a spatula to smooth it into an even layer, about 1/2-inch thick. Let it cool for about 30 minutes, then cut the cooled polenta into long fry-like strips.
- Bake the fries: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the polenta fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce!
More Relative Recipes:
- Sticky Chicken Meatballs
- Creamy Salmon Piccata
- Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
- Homemade Tortillas
- Pineapple Lemonade
- Harry Potter Pumpkin Juice Recipe – A Magical Fall Drink
Fun Variations
Want to mix things up? Try adding different spices to the polenta mixture—cumin, paprika, or chili powder for a little heat! You can also dip these fries in a tangy marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip for extra flavor.
Perfect Pairings
These Oven-Baked Polenta Fries go great with pretty much anything! Pair them with a juicy burger, a crisp salad, or serve them as an appetizer at your next party. You can even enjoy them on their own with a side of tangy dip.
FAQs
- Can I make these fries ahead of time?
You can prepare the polenta and cut it into fries ahead of time, then refrigerate the fries until you’re ready to bake. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat! - Can I fry the polenta fries instead?
Yes, you can fry them in hot oil if you want an even crispier texture. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan and fry the polenta strips in batches until golden and crispy. - Can I add more cheese to the fries?
Definitely! Mix some shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the polenta mixture before spreading it onto the baking sheet for extra cheesy fries. - How can I make these fries spicier?
For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the polenta mixture or dip the fries in a spicy sriracha mayo or hot sauce! - Can I freeze these fries?
Yes! You can freeze the cut polenta fries before baking. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then store them in a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.
These Oven-Baked Polenta Fries are the perfect crispy, golden snack that’s healthy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite meal!
Oven-Baked Polenta Fries
Ingredients
- 1 cup polenta cornmeal
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the polenta:
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the polenta and reduce the heat to low. Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Season the polenta:
- Remove the polenta from heat and stir in the olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. You can also mix in some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Shape the fries:
- Spread the cooked polenta onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a spatula to smooth it into an even layer, about 1/2-inch thick. Let it cool for about 30 minutes, then cut the cooled polenta into fry-like strips.
- Bake the fries:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the polenta fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Make ahead: Prepare and cut the fries ahead of time, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Frying option: If you want extra crispiness, fry the fries in hot oil until golden brown.
- Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the polenta mixture before baking for cheesy fries.
- Freezing: Freeze cut polenta fries before baking. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.