If you’re searching for an easy and comforting dinner that comes together quickly, this Italian Crescent Casserole is a fantastic choice. It combines flavorful ground beef, savory pasta sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in a golden crescent roll crust. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole delivers homemade taste without the extra effort.
Who is this Recipe For?
This dish is ideal for:
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Families who want a quick, hearty, and kid-friendly dinner.
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Beginners who prefer simple recipes with minimal ingredients.
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Busy individuals looking for a 30-minute weeknight meal.
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Anyone craving a warm, cheesy, and satisfying Italian-inspired casserole.
Why it’s Great
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Quick and Easy: Only a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes to make.
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Comforting Flavors: A cheesy, beefy filling with flaky crescent roll crust.
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Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish.
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Versatile: Can be customized with vegetables, different cheeses, or sauces.
Ingredients
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1 lb Ground Beef, cooked and drained
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1 cup Three Cheese Pasta Sauce
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1 can (8 oz) Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Rolls
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1 ½ cups (6 oz) Shredded Italian Cheese Blend
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¼ teaspoon Dried Basil Leaves
How to Make Italian Crescent Casserole
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Prepare Meat Mixture: In a skillet, combine the cooked ground beef with pasta sauce. Heat until bubbling, stirring occasionally.
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Form Crust: Separate crescent dough into 8 triangles. Arrange in a 9-inch glass pie plate in a spoke pattern—wide ends overlapping in the center and narrow tips draping over the edge. Press dough to form a crust along the bottom and sides.
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Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Italian cheese blend over the crust.
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Add Filling: Spread the hot meat mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
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Fold and Top: Fold the narrow tips of the crescent dough over the filling, letting them meet in the center. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese and dried basil on top.
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Bake: Place in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the crescent crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Skillet
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Mixing spoon
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9-inch glass pie plate
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Oven
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Measuring cups & spoons
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes for best texture.
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Freezer: Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQ
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter version.
Q: What pasta sauce works best?
A: Any tomato-based sauce works, but a three-cheese or marinara pairs especially well.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Definitely—try adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Conclusion
The Italian Crescent Casserole is a quick, cheesy, and hearty dinner that’s perfect for busy families. With its flaky crescent roll crust and savory beef filling, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and convenience. Keep it in your recipe rotation, and you’ll always have a reliable weeknight dinner ready to go.
