Cheesy Polenta Layer Bake

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly oil an earthenware or low-sided baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Create First Layer

Ladle about 1.33 cups of the soft polenta into the baking dish, spreading it evenly to form the base layer.

3. Add First Tomato Sauce Layer

Spread 1 cup of the Simple Tomato Sauce over the polenta.

4. Add First Cheese Layer

Arrange half of the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce. Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.

5. Create Second Polenta Layer

Ladle another 1.33 cups of polenta over the cheese layer, spreading it gently to cover the cheese completely.

6. Add Second Tomato Sauce Layer

Spread the remaining Simple Tomato Sauce over the polenta.

7. Add Second Cheese Layer

Arrange the remaining mozzarella slices over the tomato sauce. Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.

8. Create Final Polenta Layer

Ladle the remaining 1.33 cups of polenta over the final cheese layer, ensuring it covers the cheese completely.

9. Rest and Preheat Oven

Let the dish sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the polenta to set.

10. Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake until the bake is hot and bubbling, with the cheese melted and the edges slightly golden, about 30 minutes.