If you’re craving a comforting, savory dish with the perfect balance of flavor, the Italian Crescent Casserole is the perfect solution. This casserole combines seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese, all baked inside soft and flaky crescent rolls. It’s like a warm, cheesy pizza bake, but in a casserole form. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please. It’s easy to prepare, and the results are deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can of marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for greasing)
Optional:
- Red pepper flakes (for some heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
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Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Stir occasionally, breaking up the beef into small crumbles. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Meat: Once the beef and onions are cooked, stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Assemble the Casserole: Unroll the crescent dough and lay the triangles in the bottom of your prepared casserole dish, covering the entire base (some overlap is fine). Press the seams together to seal any gaps.
- Add the Beef Mixture: Spread the seasoned beef and marinara sauce mixture evenly over the crescent dough.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top of the beef mixture.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
Tips:
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
- To make it even heartier, add a layer of ricotta or cream cheese between the meat and crescent dough for a richer texture.
- This casserole reheats well, so it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers!
Enjoy this cozy, cheesy dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
