Italian Crescent Casserole Recipe (Easy & Family Favorite)
I love it when I cook something that turns out to be such a hit that I don’t even have to think about leftovers. In our house, leftovers rarely survive for long anyway. They tend to get forgotten, and eventually the dogs end up enjoying a messy experiment or something unexpectedly tasty. Either way, the dogs always win.
This Italian Crescent Casserole is one of those recipes that disappears fast. It’s inspired by the classic Pillsbury Italian Crescent Casserole, but I made a small change by switching the sauce. Instead of the original, I used a Three Cheese Pasta Sauce, which adds extra richness and flavor. Honestly, it’s just as good—if not better.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Cheesy, comforting, and filling
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained
- 1 cup Three Cheese Pasta Sauce
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
- 1½ cups shredded Italian cheese blend (6 oz)
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil leaves
How to Make Italian Crescent Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, mix the cooked ground beef and pasta sauce. Heat until boiling, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Separate the crescent roll dough into 8 triangles. Arrange them in an ungreased 9-inch glass pie plate in a spoke pattern, with the narrow tips overlapping the rim of the plate by about 3 inches. Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the dish to form a crust.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Italian cheese evenly over the dough crust. Spoon the meat mixture evenly on top of the cheese. Bring the tips of the dough over the filling to meet in the center, without overlapping. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top and finish with dried basil.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Best Results
- Drain the ground beef well to prevent excess grease
- Use a quality cheese blend for better flavor
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Crescent Casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. It’s hearty enough to enjoy on its own but even better with simple sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Crescent Casserole is an easy, comforting meal that’s perfect for the whole family. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
