ITALIAN CRESCENT CASSEROLE

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Prepare the Crescent Roll Crust: Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom and up the sides of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a crust.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the beef mixture over the crescent roll crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent roll crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips and Tricks

• Lean Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content and make the dish a bit lighter.
• Cheese Varieties: Try using a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for a richer flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.

Recipe Variations

• Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Italian Crescent Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave and heat until warmed through, or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.