Italian-Style Beef with Polenta

This hearty meat sauce with cheese polenta is a great addition to spaghetti.
Put the first 3 ingredients in a large saucepan. Gradually add 2 cups of water and milk, stirring constantly with a whisk. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium and cook for 20 minutes, stirring frequently. Add 1/3 cup of cheese.Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; drizzle with cooking spray. Add beef; simmer 5 minutes. Stir to make it crumble. Remove the beef and dry it. Wipe the pan clean; brush with cooking spray. Add the onion, pepper, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and garlic; simmer for 4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add beef and sauce; simmer 8 minutes.Spread the polenta evenly over 4 shallow bowls. Top each serving with 1 cup beef mixture; sprinkle with 2 teaspoons cheese and 2 tablespoons basil.