Step 1

Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add fennel seed, chili powder, orange pepper, green pepper, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Cook until onions are just beginning to turn translucent. Add tomatoes and 2 tablespoons polenta and cook for 5 minutes more. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2

Preheat oven to 350˚F. In a medium saucepan combine water and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Bring to a boil then slowly pour in polenta, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and cook until thickened, about 3 minutes.

Step 3

Pour beef and vegetables into 8”x8” deep baking dish. Top with half the cheese, then pour polenta on top. Smooth polenta layer with the back of a spoon then top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25 minutes in middle rack of oven. Then move to top of oven and set under broiler on high for 1-2 minutes to make the top lightly browned.