Mexican Polenta Pizza Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 cups skim milk
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 ounces lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups red chile sauce (such as Herdez Red Guajillo Chile Mexican Cooking Sauce)
• 1 cup Mexican shredded cheese blend, plus more for sprinkling on top
• 1 cup shredded lettuce, or to taste
• 1 tomato, diced, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons sliced pitted black olives, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons sour cream, or to taste

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cornmeal, skim milk, and kosher salt. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens enough to pull away from the sides of the pan, about 15 minutes.
2. Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and stir in the olive oil. Spread the mixture evenly on a greased cookie sheet. Refrigerate for 1 hour to allow it to set.
3. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Once the oven is ready, bake the polenta crust for 10 to 15 minutes, or until slightly golden and firm.
4. While the crust is baking, heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Pour the red chile sauce into the skillet with the beef and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
6. Once the polenta crust is ready, remove it from the oven. Top the crust with the beef mixture and sprinkle with the shredded cheese blend. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
7. Once baked, remove from the oven and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, black olives, and sour cream. Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	445
Total Fat	19g (24% DV)
Saturated Fat	8g (38% DV)
Cholesterol	64mg (21% DV)
Sodium	556mg (24% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	43g (16% DV)
Dietary Fiber	5g (18% DV)
Total Sugars	16g
Protein	28g (55% DV)
Vitamin C	32mg (36% DV)
Calcium	452mg (35% DV)
Iron	3mg (19% DV)
Potassium	1078mg (23% DV)

The Fascinating Story Behind Mexican Polenta Pizza

Mexican Polenta Pizza is a vibrant fusion dish that marries the creamy texture of Italian polenta with the bold, spicy flavors of Mexican cuisine. Polenta itself dates back to ancient Rome, where it was a staple among peasants. Its versatility made it ideal for adaptation in various cultures. The Mexican twist likely emerged from contemporary culinary experimentation, blending traditional Latin American ingredients such as red chile sauce, shredded Mexican cheese, and fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and olives with the smooth cornmeal base.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While traditional Italian polenta is typically served soft or baked as a base for sauces and meats, the Mexican version introduces a unique regional flair. In Northern Mexico, where corn is a dietary staple, spicy sauces and cheeses are often used to enrich dishes. The inclusion of Guajillo chile sauce, for example, reflects regional preferences for smoky, moderately hot flavors. Additionally, garnishes like sour cream, lettuce, and olives add a Tex-Mex influence, showing how regional ingredients can transform a simple Italian base into a colorful, flavorful pizza.

What Makes It Different from Similar Dishes

Unlike a classic pizza with a wheat-based dough, Mexican Polenta Pizza uses baked polenta as a naturally gluten-free crust. This creates a slightly creamy and firm base rather than a chewy one. Compared to traditional Mexican tostadas or casseroles, it combines layered toppings in a pizza-like presentation, giving it a fusion identity. The balance of spicy meat sauce, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables sets it apart from both standard polenta dishes and typical Mexican baked recipes.

Where Youll Typically Find It Served

This dish is often found in casual fusion restaurants, modern Mexican bistros, or home kitchens experimenting with cross-cultural cuisine. It is especially popular at gatherings where comfort food with a creative twist is appreciated. Its colorful presentation makes it a crowd-pleaser for parties and family dinners, while its hearty ingredients satisfy as a main course for lunch or dinner.

Interesting Facts About Mexican Polenta Pizza

• Polenta is naturally gluten-free, making this pizza suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• The combination of cornmeal and Mexican spices creates a unique flavor profile that blends earthy and spicy notes.
• While often baked, polenta can also be fried into crispy rounds for an alternative texture.
• This dish reflects a global trend of fusion comfort food, highlighting the creative potential of blending culinary traditions.
• The use of Guajillo chile sauce adds not only flavor but also a deep red color, making the pizza visually striking.

FAQ about Mexican Polenta Pizza Recipe