Polenta and Ham Gratins recipe

Here’s a cozy, cheesy, and comforting dish: Polenta and Ham Gratins — creamy layers of polenta, savory ham, and gooey cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a hearty side or even a light main dish.

🧀 Polenta and Ham Gratins (Individual Servings or One Large Dish)

🍽️ Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 1 cup (160g) polenta (coarse cornmeal)

• 4 cups (1L) milk or a mix of milk and water (for creaminess)

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup diced cooked ham

• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (mozzarella works too)

• Fresh thyme or chopped parsley (optional)

🥄 Instructions:

1. Cook the Polenta:

1. In a saucepan, bring milk and salt to a simmer.

2. Slowly whisk in the polenta. Lower heat and cook, stirring frequently, for 15–20 minutes, until thick and creamy.

3. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Remove from heat.

2. Assemble the Gratins:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Lightly grease 4–6 ramekins or a medium baking dish.

3. Spoon half the polenta into the ramekins.

4. Layer with diced ham and half the shredded cheese.

5. Add remaining polenta on top.

6. Finish with the rest of the shredded cheese.

3. Bake:

• Place ramekins on a baking sheet.

• Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until tops are golden and bubbly.

• Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra browning.

🌿 To Serve:

• Sprinkle with herbs like thyme or parsley.

• Serve hot with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

🔄 Variations:

• Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.

• Use leftover roasted chicken or turkey instead of ham.

• Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.