Crispy, golden, and delightfully cheesy, these Polenta Cornmeal Chips are your next favorite snack! Made from a simple mixture of creamy polenta enriched with Parmesan cheese and a hint of black pepper, these chips are baked to perfection for a healthier yet satisfying crunch. With just a handful of pantry staples, including optional paprika for a smoky kick, this recipe turns humble cornmeal into an irresistible treat that's perfect for dipping or enjoying on its own. Easy to make and gluten-free, these baked polenta chips are a versatile appetizer or snack that pairs beautifully with everything from marinara to guacamole. Whether you're entertaining or just indulging in some well-deserved "me time," these savory bites are sure to impress.
In a medium-sized pot, bring 3 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Lower the heat to medium and continue to stir the polenta for 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes thick and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
Stir in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, and 0.5 teaspoon of paprika (if using). Mix well to combine.
Transfer the polenta onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it out evenly into a thin layer, roughly 1/4 inch thick. Let it cool completely, about 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the polenta is cooled and firm, cut it into chip-sized pieces, such as rectangles or triangles.
Arrange the polenta pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between each piece.
Lightly brush the tops with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chips are golden and crispy.
Remove from the oven and allow the chips to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as is or pair them with your favorite dip.
Calories |
1466 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 55.9 g | 72% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.8 g | 104% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 80 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 3746 mg | 163% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 191.0 g | 69% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.7 g | 38% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.6 g | ||
| Protein | 51.5 g | 103% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 945 mg | 73% | |
| Iron | 5.9 mg | 33% | |
| Potassium | 382 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.