This Pork and Polenta Bake has rich, comforting flavors that you should enjoy. A hearty and satisfying dish is made with layers of tasty ground pork, fragrant herbs, bright vegetables, creamy polenta, and melted cheese.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground pork. 1 onion, finely chopped. 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 bell pepper, diced. 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes, undrained. 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce. 1 teaspoon dried oregano. 1 teaspoon dried basil. Salt and black pepper to taste. 1 cup quick-cooking polenta. 4 cups water. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh basil for garnish optional.
Instructions: Preheat the oven to 375F 190C. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. While the pork mixture is simmering, prepare the polenta. In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in the quick-cooking polenta and reduce heat to low. Continue whisking until the polenta thickens. Spread the prepared polenta into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Pour the pork and vegetable mixture over the polenta layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve the Pork and Polenta Bake hot and enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal!