Easy Polenta Pie

Discover the joy of a wholesome and savory Cornmeal and Cheese Casserole, a comforting dish that seamlessly melds creamy textures and zesty flavors. This recipe features a delightful cornmeal base enriched with the richness of Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeno peppers, and a layer of hearty chili beans for added depth. The innovative use of an air fryer makes this casserole delightfully crisp on the outside while maintaining its creamy interior. In just over an hour, you can relish a satisfying meal that offers the perfect balance of comfort and taste.

Preparation time: 10 min

Cooking time: 55 min

Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS:

• Egg, slightly beaten (1 piece)
• Water (2 cups)
• Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeno peppers, shredded (3/4 cup)
• Cornmeal (3/4 cup)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Chili beans, drained (15 ounces)
• Tortilla chips/crushed corn (1/3 cup)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius).
2. Mist a pie plate with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. In a saucepan heated over medium-high heat, combine water, salt, and cornmeal. Allow the mixture to come to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium. Let it simmer for about six minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. After six minutes, stir in the slightly beaten egg and let the mixture sit for an additional five minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken.
5. Pour the cornmeal mixture into the prepared pie plate, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
6. Place the pie plate in the preheated air fryer and air-fry for fifteen minutes. This will help set the cornmeal base.
7. After fifteen minutes, remove the pie plate from the air fryer and top the cornmeal base with the drained chili beans.
8. Sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips or corn chips over the beans, creating a delightful crunchy layer.
9. Evenly distribute the shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeno peppers on top of the chips.
10. Return the pie plate to the air fryer and air-fry for an additional twenty minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the casserole to achieve a golden-brown finish.
11. Once cooked, carefully remove the Cornmeal and Cheese Casserole from the air fryer.
12. Divide the casserole among serving plates and savor the delightful contrasts of textures and flavors.

TIPS:

• Use slightly beaten egg to create a binding effect for the cornmeal mixture.
• Choose a Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeno peppers to infuse the casserole with a gentle spicy kick and an extra layer of flavor.
• When cooking the cornmeal mixture, ensure it reaches a thick consistency before stirring in the egg.
• Spread the cornmeal mixture evenly in the pie plate to achieve uniform cooking and texture.
• Customize the recipe by adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the chili beans for added flavor and nutrition.
• When layering the beans, corn chips, and cheese, distribute them evenly for a balanced and flavorful final result.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by using more or fewer jalapeno pepper-infused cheese and tortilla chips.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (per serving):

• Calories: 195
• Fat: 7.0g
• Protein: 10.0g
• Carbohydrates: 27.0g

Indulge in the warmth of a Cornmeal and Cheese Casserole, where the comforting creaminess of cornmeal is beautifully complemented by the zing of Monterey Jack cheese and the heartiness of chili beans. With the convenience of an air fryer, you can enjoy a dish that’s both satisfying and delightful in under an hour.