Quick Crispy Polenta Dippers

Crispy Polenta Dippers are a ridiculously simple toaster oven snack. With a tube of pre-cooked polenta, some spices, and a little oil you can whip up this easy appetizer in just 25 minutes!

The stars aligned today.

You finally have a free afternoon to binge watch Netflix, read the newest Michael Connelly, or play a few rounds of Sequence with your sweetie.

On these rarest of occasions, you’re not looking to spend hours of your precious free time in the kitchen, right?

Nope, you want to throw together a tasty snack that’s fast, simple and will have you curled up on the couch or wildly dominating the game table in no time.

Something like these semi-homemade Crispy Polenta Dippers!

Here’s what you need to make this simple appetizer: 

• tube of pre-cooked polenta (can be found near the pasta at your grocery store)
• a little oil
• sprinkle of seasonings

Toss everything together and pop the pan in your toaster oven. In less than 30 minutes you’ll have a batch of tiny corn-licious wedges perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. 

Let’s make some!

~ Keep scrolling for step by step photos & tips after the recipe ~

Crispy Polenta Dippers 101

Step 1: Preheat your toaster oven to 450°F, slice the polenta into ½-inch rounds, and then cut the rounds into triangles.

Right about here I usually get an irresistible urge to pretend one of the rounds is Pacman gobbling up a line of grape tomatoes.  If it happens to you, find the nearest little kid or willing spouse and indulge it. Life’s too short not to.

Step 2: Once you’re done playing with your polenta arrange it on your toaster oven baking sheet. Brush or spray the pieces with oil and sprinkle over your favorite seasonings.

Step 3: Pop the pan in your toaster oven for 10 minutes. Remember to reduce the time and temperature when using a convection toaster oven.

Step 4: Once they’re warmed through, get your little snack bites crispy on the outside but still creamy inside using your toaster oven’s secret weapon: The Broiler.

In just a few minutes’ time, they’ll be golden, browned on the edges and ready for dipping.

{Related: Is Your Toaster Oven Lying About Its Temperature?}

Seasoning and Dip Ideas For Your Crispy Polenta:

• Chipotle Powder + Guacamole
• Italian Seasoning + Pizza Sauce
• Cinnamon + Blueberry Yogurt

Not sure which combo to try first?

The Italian seasoning and pizza sauce was the big winner in our house.

Tim quickly finished his and started stealing from my plate! *His suggestion: sprinkle the polenta with shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese before broiling for a serious pizza vibe.

Looking for more easy toaster oven appetizers?

• Dynamite Buffalo Broccoli and Cauliflower Bites (Only 30 Minutes!)
• Veggie Hummus Flatbread
• Addictive Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds (Only 30 Minutes!)
• Toaster Oven Baked Pita Chips
• Toaster Oven Baked Potato Wedges (Everything Bagel Style)