Can I use store brand crescent rolls for this recipe?

Definitely! Any brand of crescent rolls will create that flaky, buttery crust—just be sure to check the package for the number of rolls and adjust if needed.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the whole thing, cover tightly, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.

What can I use if I don't have a pie plate?

A small casserole dish or even a square 8x8 pan will work. The shape might shift a little, but it’ll be just as delicious.

Do I have to use mozzarella and parmesan?

While these cheeses give that classic Italian flavor, you can substitute with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or whatever melty cheese you have. Parmesan is great for its salty, nutty finish, but feel free to experiment!

Easy Italian Casserole Recipe

Description

This Easy Italian Casserole is a delicious, family-friendly main course featuring a flaky crescent roll crust filled with savory seasoned ground beef, rich tomato pasta sauce, and topped with a perfectly melty mozzarella and parmesan cheese blend. It’s a quick, comforting, oven-baked dinner that comes together in under 40 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Crescent Roll Crust

1 package Crescent Rolls

Beef Filling

1 lb lean ground beef
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 cup tomato pasta sauce

Cheese Topping

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking when the casserole is assembled.
Cook the Beef Mixture – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef and chopped onion for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Add the Pasta Sauce – Stir the tomato pasta sauce into the cooked beef and onion mixture. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
Prepare the Crescent Crust – Open the package of crescent rolls and separate them into triangles. Arrange them in a 9-inch pie plate with the pointed tips extending over the edge. Press the seams and open spots together with your fingers to form a solid crust at the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate.
Assemble the Casserole – Fill the prepared crescent roll crust with the beef and sauce mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and all of the grated parmesan over the beef mixture. Fold the tips of the crescent rolls over the filling, and finish by topping with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake – Place the pie plate in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the crescent crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top.
Cool and Serve – Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. Slice and serve warm for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to increase nutritional value.
For extra flavor, consider mixing Italian seasoning into the beef mixture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, to maintain crust crispiness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6th of casserole
Calories: 420
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 760mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 65mg