BAKE AND SERVE: OVEN-READY CASSEROLES THE MAKE-AHEAD COOK

KEEPING POLENTA LOOSE

When we tried storing our polenta casserole overnight, we ended up with a dense, gluey mess since it thickens as it sits. For polenta that could withstand an overnight rest, we had to add extra liquid and undercook it drastically, until it was smooth but still very loose. Then we topped the polenta with a fresh and flavorful ragu of tomatoes, spinach, and sausage.