Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets

Name: Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mixed grated vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love these Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets! They offer a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining soft and flavorful within. When I first made these, I was amazed at how easily the polenta transformed into such a versatile base, allowing me to mix in my favorite veggies. Whether served as a snack or a side dish, these nuggets are sure to impress everyone at the table. The best part? They’re simple to whip up and can be customized to suit your personal taste!

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-19T22:21:34.859Z

When I first experimented with making these veggie nuggets, I had a mix of leftover vegetables. The result was a delicious and unexpected flavor fusion that had my family asking for more. I found that pre-cooking the veggies enhanced their natural sweetness, making each bite a taste sensation. Remember, the type of veggies you use can completely change the flavor, so feel free to get creative!

After preparing these nuggets a few times, I discovered that allowing the polenta to chill before cutting really helps keep their shape during cooking. The slight wait is so worth it for that perfect crunch. I also recommend baking instead of frying for a healthier twist that doesn't compromise on taste!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The crispy texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft, flavorful filling
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies and herbs
A healthier alternative to traditional nuggets, perfect as a snack or appetizer

      

Mastering the Polenta

Polenta serves as the foundational element of these nuggets, offering both texture and flavor. When cooking polenta, be attentive to the heat; a medium flame is preferred to prevent it from sticking or clumping together. Whisk continuously as you add the polenta to the boiling broth to achieve a smooth consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up. The goal is a creamy, spreadable mixture that will hold its shape once chilled.

Incorporating vegetables is where you can truly personalize this dish. The grated vegetables not only enhance flavor but also add moisture and color, making the nuggets visually appealing. I like using zucchini and carrots for their mild taste and vibrant hues, but feel free to experiment with other veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from any watery vegetables to maintain the integrity of the polenta mixture.

Perfecting the Nugget Shape

Cutting the chilled polenta into nugget shapes may seem straightforward, but achieving uniformity is key to even cooking. Aim for dimensions of about 1 inch by 2 inches, as smaller or irregular sizes can lead to uneven baking. A sharp knife or a pizza cutter can be effective tools for this task. For a fun twist, consider using cookie cutters to create different shapes, perfect for parties or kids—just adjust the baking time if they’re significantly smaller or larger.

When coating the nuggets with breadcrumbs, think about the texture you're aiming for. Panko breadcrumbs can provide an extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs, making them an excellent choice. Experiment with seasoning the breadcrumbs by adding herbs like oregano or thyme to complement the filling. This simple touch can elevate the flavor profile and make your nuggets even more enticing.

Serving Suggestions

Once baked, let the nuggets cool slightly for the best texture and flavor release. I recommend pairing them with a dip like garlic aioli or a fresh salsa verde for an added layer of taste. The creamy and tangy dips contrast beautifully with the crispy nuggets, turning them into a delightful snack or appetizer. Serve them alongside a crisp salad for a light meal or presentation at a gathering.

If you're making these for a crowd or to meal prep, consider freezing the uncooked nuggets. After assembling and coating them, lay the nuggets on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. This keeps your nuggets fresh and ready for whenever the craving strikes!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets!

Ingredients

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mixed grated vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets:

Prepare the Polenta

In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in grated vegetables, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Chill the Mixture

Transfer the polenta mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to firm up.

Shape the Nuggets

Once chilled, cut the polenta into small nugget shapes. Roll each nugget in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Bake the Nuggets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the nuggets on a lined baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Now it's time to enjoy your homemade Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to the polenta mixture before chilling. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful combination!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain their crispiness during reheating, I recommend using an oven instead of a microwave. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the nuggets on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again. This method helps revive their texture, ensuring you enjoy them just as much as when they were freshly baked.

If you find yourself with an abundance of nuggets, don’t hesitate to freeze them. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. This way, you can easily pull out the number of nuggets you need without worrying about thawing the entire batch.

Nutritional Enhancements

Feel free to amp up the nutritional value by adding seeds or nuts to the polenta mixture. Chia seeds or finely chopped walnuts can introduce healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. Make sure to adjust the moisture content if you add these ingredients, as they can absorb some liquid. This not only enriches the flavor profile but also boosts the overall nutritional content of your nuggets.

For those looking for a vegan option, simply replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without using dairy. Additionally, swap out the egg wash for a mixture of ground flax seeds and water to help the breadcrumbs adhere. These small tweaks can turn the dish into a plant-based delight without sacrificing taste or texture!

Experiment with Flavors

These nuggets are a blank canvas, perfect for various flavor profiles. Consider adding spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the polenta mixture for a smoky or spicy kick. For an Italian twist, incorporate Italian herbs like basil and oregano directly into the mixture. The versatility of polenta allows you to venture into multiple cuisine styles, making these nuggets suitable for any palate.

Additionally, you might try incorporating different cheese options—like feta or cheddar—depending on your tastes. Just remember to adjust the salt content accordingly, as some cheeses are saltier than others. Experimenting not only keeps the recipe exciting but also helps discover new favorite combinations that can impress your family and guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the nuggets?

Yes, these nuggets can be frozen before baking. Just place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen when ready to enjoy!

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand! Spinach, mushrooms, and corn work particularly well to add flavor and nutrients.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative and ensure your breadcrumbs are vegan-friendly.

→ What can I serve with these nuggets?

These nuggets are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or even a zesty avocado dip!