Savory Ground Beef and Creamy Polenta Bake with Roasted Garlic and Spinach
This comforting dish combines savory ground beef with creamy polenta, roasted garlic, and fresh spinach, creating a soul-warming meal that's perfect for any occasion. The unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout comfort food that will delight your taste buds.
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Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
Add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently until the polenta is thick and creamy.
Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of heavy cream into the polenta for extra richness.
In a small bowl, mash 4 cloves of roasted garlic and mix it into the polenta. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the polenta on the bottom.
Spread the ground beef mixture evenly over the polenta, then top with the remaining polenta. Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
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