Crispy Ham & Cheese Breakfast Polenta Recipe

Name: Crispy Ham & Cheese Breakfast Polenta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups water; 2 cups instant polenta; 1 stick unsalted butter, cut into cubes; 1 cup grated parmesan; salt & pepper; 1 cup grated gruyere; 6 slices ham; 2-3 tbs olive oil; 3 leeks, cleaned thoroughly & thinly sliced; 2 cups baby spinach; 6 large eggs

Servings: persons

1
["Place the water in a saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta and cook while stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat and stir in butter, parmesan and season with salt and pepper. Pour half the polenta on a lightly greased 12x8.5"" half sheet pan and spread evenly. Cover with slices of ham and gruyere cheese and then spread remaining polenta over top evenly. Refrigerate 1 hour or overnight.", "", "", "Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat and add leeks. Cook slowly until tender, about 8-10 minutes, adding 1 more tablespoon of oil if needed. Add spinach and toss until just wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.", "", "", "Cut polenta into 6 large squares and trim the edges evenly. Then cut each square into 2 rectangles. Heat a non-stick saute pan or cast iron griddle over medium high heat. Cook the polenta for 4-6 minutes per side or until golden brown on top and cheese has melted. Serve with a scoop of sauted leeks and spinach and top with an egg your favorite way."]

1044

kcal

Calories

100

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 6 cups water, 2 cups instant polenta, 1 stick unsalted butter, cut into cubes, 1 cup grated parmesan, and more.

Yes, Crispy Ham & Cheese Breakfast Polenta falls under the Breakfast category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Crispy Ham & Cheese Breakfast Polenta

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions