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Italian Crescent Casserole: A Family Favorite for Beginner Cooks

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A simple and satisfying casserole with ground beef, marinara sauce, cheese, and crescent roll crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 package (8 oz) Pillsbury Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Rolls
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Preparation Station:

    • Begin by browning your ground beef together with those finely diced onions in a skillet over medium-high heat. This ensures the beef cooks evenly and the onions soften, releasing their natural sweetness.
    • Once they’ve danced and melded together, drain off any excess fat. This prevents the casserole from being greasy and ensures a richer flavor.
  • Flavor Elevator:

    • Now, fold in your favorite marinara sauce. A sprinkle of salt and pepper to season, and your beefy mixture is ready. This adds the classic Italian flavor and seasons the base, creating a flavorful and aromatic filling.
  • Creamy Dreamy Blend:

    • In a cozy medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sour cream and mozzarella cheese until they’re well-acquainted. This creates a creamy, cheesy layer that melts beautifully and adds a rich texture to the casserole.
  • Layering Time:

    • Pour the beefy mixture as the base into a 2 ½ quart casserole dish. This creates the first layer of the casserole, providing a hearty and flavorful foundation.
    • Gently layer your creamy cheese blend over it. This creates the second layer, adding a creamy texture and a melty, cheesy element.
  • Roll Out The Carpet:

    • Unfold the crescent roll dough, laying it as a blanket over the cheese. This creates the golden, flaky crust that envelops the filling and adds a delightful texture.
  • Buttery Finish:

    • In a cute little bowl, whisk together your melted butter and grated parmesan cheese. This creates the buttery topping that enhances the crust’s flavor and appearance.
    • Drench the dough with this buttery mixture; it’s what gives it that “Oh, wow!” factor. This helps the crust brown and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
  • Bake to Perfection:

    • With your oven humming at 375°F, slide in the casserole dish. This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the crust browns beautifully.
    • Give it a good 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the aroma fills your kitchen and the crust turns a gorgeous golden hue. This indicates the casserole is cooked through and the crust is perfectly baked.
  • Serve and Revel:

    • Once baked to perfection, let it sit for a moment. This allows the casserole to cool slightly and the layers to set, preventing any burning and ensuring a more enjoyable eating experience.
    • Slice, serve, and watch the magic happen. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Drain excess fat from beef.
  • Ensure even layers.
  • Brush generously with butter mixture.
  • Let stand before slicing.