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–+ servings
Crispy Baked Polenta Fries

Easy Crispy Baked Polenta Fries That Totally Beat Fast Food

These crispy baked polenta fries are a guilt-free snack that satisfy your cravings with a crunchy exterior and creamy interior, making them a delicious upgrade from fast food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 4 fries
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Polenta Fries
  • 1 cup quick-cooking polenta Use for a creamy, smooth texture
  • 4 cups water or broth Broth adds extra flavor
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated to enhance taste
  • 2 tbsp butter For richness
  • 1 tsp salt Essential for seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp pepper Adjust to taste
For the Seasoning & Finishing Touch
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For a golden crunch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder For flavor
  • 1 tbsp dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or oregano) Optional for warmth
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley For garnish
For Dipping Sauces
  • 1 cup marinara sauce Classic pairing
  • 1/2 cup aioli or garlic mayo Creamy dip option

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • sharp knife
  • spatula
  • Large Bowl

Method
 

For the Polenta Base
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a gentle rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Slowly sprinkle quick-cooking polenta into the boiling liquid, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to low and let the polenta simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often.
  4. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan, butter, salt, and pepper, then let cool.
  5. Spoon the warm polenta into an oiled pan, smooth the top, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
For the Fries
  1. Gently lift the chilled polenta slab and cut it into ½-inch sticks.
  2. Drizzle olive oil over the polenta sticks, sprinkle with garlic powder and herbs, then toss to coat.
  3. Preheat oven to 425°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange fries in a single layer, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional: Dust fries with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Serve immediately for best results.

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