Breakfast
Freeflourish
Gluten-Free Cheesy Herb Polenta Casserole
By Freeflourish Test KitchenReviewed by Freeflourish Editorial TeamPublished Apr 29, 2026 · Updated Jul 7, 2026
Italian-inspired
55 mins
glutenfreevegetarianbakingfamilymealhighproteinonepoteasysidedishquickrecipescomfortfood
Savor this comforting, Italian-inspired gluten-free baking recipe featuring creamy polenta blended with melted cheeses and fresh herbs. Ideal for family-friendly meals, this one-pot casserole is high-protein, easy to prepare, and perfect as a side dish or light main course.
Prep
15 min
Cook
40 min
Total
55 min
Servings
6
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
Italian-inspired
Ingredients
Servings
6
- 1 cup gluten-free coarse yellow polenta (cornmeal)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Olive oil or nonstick spray for greasing baking dish
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x9-inch (or similarly sized) baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
-
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
-
Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper to the onions and garlic, stirring for 30 seconds to release the aromas.
-
Slowly whisk in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
-
Gradually whisk the polenta into the boiling broth mixture, reducing heat to low. Continue whisking frequently to prevent lumps and cook the polenta until thickened and creamy, about 10-15 minutes.
-
Once the polenta is thick and creamy, remove from heat. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella, all the ricotta cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
-
Stir in the fresh parsley, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Pour the polenta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
-
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
-
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to set.
-
Serve warm as a hearty, cheesy, herb-infused side dish or light main course that’s perfect for gluten-free family meals.
Tips
Allergen Overlap Note
Check every packaged ingredient for certified gluten-free status, especially spices, broths, sauces, seed products, and baking staples. Use clean prep surfaces and dedicated utensils when preparing Gluten-Free Cheesy Herb Polenta Casserole for someone with celiac disease.
Texture Expectations
Gluten-Free Cheesy Herb Polenta Casserole should keep the intended servings texture when cooked and plated carefully.
Dining With Non-GF Family Note
Prepare and serve on a dedicated gluten-free surface first, then keep any shared side dishes separate with dedicated serving utensils.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Gluten-Free Cheesy Herb Polenta Casserole ahead?
- Yes. Prepare components early, then store and reheat according to the storage guidance so the texture stays close to fresh.
- How do I keep this recipe gluten-free?
- Use certified gluten-free packaged ingredients and avoid shared utensils, boards, pans, or toppings that touched gluten-containing foods.
- Can I adjust the main ingredients?
- Yes. Swap ingredients with similar moisture, protein, or cooking behavior to keep timing and texture close to the original.
- How do I serve it with mixed-diet family?
- Serve the gluten-free recipe first and keep any gluten-containing toppings and sides separate.
Ingredient Replacements
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
- Olive oil or nonstick spray for greasing baking dish: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
- main vegetable: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
- protein: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
- seasoning: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
Storage and Reheating
Cool completely before covering. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days, or freeze for later use. Reheat slowly to keep texture closer to fresh.
Related Articles
Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.
More Recipes
Explore more recipes you may like.
Reviews
Rate this recipe and share a photo of your result.
No reviews yet.
Save this recipe
Log in to keep this recipe in your favorites.
Reset password Register