Cheesy Soft Polenta 1 tablespoon butter, softened 4.5 cups water 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup medium ground cornmeal (polenta) 1 tablespoon chopped thyme 2 tablespoons chopped marjoram 3 cups grated gruyere cheese 1. Preheat oven to 350. Grease a square baking dish with the softened butter. 2. Bring the water and salt to a boil, then slowly whisk in the polenta. Stir for 5 minutes or until it starts to thicken. Add the herbs and 1/2 of the cheese and stir to incorporate. Pour mixture into the buttered dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake in oven for 1 hour, or until cheese is melted and bubbling.