Description
These Easy Air Fryer Parmesan Polenta Cakes are a deliciously crispy and flavorful snack or side dish. Made with precooked polenta seasoned with garlic salt and black pepper, air fried to golden perfection, and topped with melted Parmesan cheese, they are perfect for a quick and satisfying treat served with marinara for dipping.
Ingredients
Polenta Cakes
- 18 ounce tube precooked polenta (such as San Gennaro)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic salt (or more to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (or more to taste)
- Nonstick spray
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Polenta: Remove the wrapping from the tube of precooked polenta by slicing off one end and gently squeezing it out from the other end. Pat the polenta dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Slice Polenta: Using a sharp knife, cut the polenta into roughly ½-inch thick slices on a clean cutting board, creating the polenta cakes.
- Season Polenta Cakes: Brush or spray both sides of each polenta slice with 1 tablespoon of olive oil evenly. Season both sides with approximately ½ teaspoon garlic salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, adjusting seasoning to your preference.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Once preheated, spray the air fryer basket or tray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry Polenta Cakes: Place the seasoned polenta slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for air circulation. Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the cakes halfway through the cooking time, until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the polenta cakes. Return them to the air fryer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns slightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the polenta cakes from the air fryer, optionally top with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley, and serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dip on the side.
Notes
- You can adjust the garlic salt and pepper amount according to taste preference.
- For crispier texture, make sure to pat the polenta slices dry before seasoning.
- Serve immediately after cooking for best texture and flavor.
- Polenta cakes can be accompanied by marinara sauce or pesto for extra flavor.
- Leftover polenta cakes can be refrigerated and reheated in the air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
