Here’s a delicious Italian Crescent Casserole recipe that’s easy to make with layers of crescent rolls, savory Italian-seasoned meat, cheese, and marinara sauce—perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Italian Crescent Casserole
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
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1 (8 oz) can refrigerated crescent rolls
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1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
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Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Brown the Meat:
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In a skillet, cook ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, and 1 cup marinara sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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Assemble the Casserole:
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Unroll crescent dough and press into the bottom of the baking dish, sealing perforations.
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Spread ricotta cheese (if using) over the dough.
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Spoon the meat mixture evenly on top.
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Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meat.
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Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
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Bake:
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Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the crescent crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
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Garnish & Serve:
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Let cool for 5 minutes, then top with fresh basil or parsley.
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Slice and serve with a side of garlic bread or salad.
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Variations:
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Vegetarian: Swap meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.
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Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of provolone under the mozzarella.
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Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
This Italian Crescent Casserole is a crowd-pleaser with minimal prep and maximum flavor! Let me know if you’d like any tweaks. 😊🍝