Description
Comforting Italian Crescent Casserole is a hearty and delicious baked dish combining savory ground beef or Italian sausage with marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all encased in flaky crescent roll dough. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal that delivers classic Italian-American flavors with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dough and Cheese
- 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Meat and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion becomes soft, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, then mix in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes before removing from heat.
- Prepare Crescent Dough Base: Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a greased 9-inch pie dish or small baking dish, pinching the seams together to seal the crust.
- Layer Cheeses and Meat: Spread the ricotta or cottage cheese evenly over the dough base. Spoon the prepared meat mixture over the ricotta layer, then evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version or use plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to incorporate extra vegetables.
- Serve this casserole with a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal.
