Looking for a simple and satisfying dinner idea? Try our Italian Crescent Casserole recipe! Made with ground beef, pasta sauce, and crescent rolls, it’s a delicious twist on classic comfort food. Great for busy weeknights or potluck dinners.
Italian Crescent Casserole offers the perfect combination of savory ground beef, zesty pasta sauce, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky crescent dough crust. This comforting and satisfying dish is reminiscent of classic Italian flavors with a modern twist, making it a favorite among home cooks everywhere.
Ingredients for Italian Crescent Casserole
To whip up this mouthwatering casserole, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained
- 1 cup Three Cheese Pasta Sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
- 1½ cups shredded Italian cheese blend
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Italian Crescent Casserole is a breeze with these simple steps:
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, mix the cooked ground beef with the pasta sauce. Heat the mixture to boiling over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble the Casserole: Separate the crescent dough into 8 triangles and place them in an ungreased 9-inch glass pie plate in a spoke pattern, with the narrow tips overlapping the rim of the plate. Press the dough into the sides and bottom of the plate to form a crust.
- Layer the Ingredients: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Italian cheese blend over the crust. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the cheese.
- Finish and Bake: Bring the tips of the dough over the filling to meet in the center, without overlapping. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese and dried basil over the top. Bake the casserole at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Perfect Casserole
- Be sure to fully cook and drain the ground beef before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess grease.
- Experiment with different cheese blends and pasta sauces to customize the flavor of your casserole.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving to prevent burning your mouth.
Variations and Customizations
Get creative with your Italian Crescent Casserole by trying out these delicious variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils or your favorite meat alternative.
- Spicy Twist: Add a kick of heat with sliced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Italian Crescent Casserole pairs perfectly with a side salad tossed with Italian dressing or garlic breadsticks for a complete meal. Serve it up for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering and watch it disappear in no time!
Italian Crescent Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this flavorful casserole is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
FAQs
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?
- Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in Italian Crescent Casserole.
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Can I freeze leftovers of Italian Crescent Casserole?
- Yes, leftover casserole can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What other herbs can I use to flavor the casserole?
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
- Can I add additional vegetables to the casserole?
- Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
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