Crescent Meat Loaf
A savory, cheesy meat loaf wrapped in crescent rolls with rich beef and gravy flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet; add onion powder to taste.
- Drain excess fat from the beef.
- Mix brown gravy mix with warm water and pour over the cooked beef.
- Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
- Place half of the crescent rolls on the bottom of a square cake pan.
- Pour the hamburger and gravy mixture over the crescents.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the hamburger mixture, if desired.
- Place the remaining crescent rolls on top of the cheese layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until the crescents are golden brown.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce with the ground beef. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for ground beef. You can also use a variety of cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a different taste. If you have leftover gravy, drizzle it on top before serving for extra moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with mashed potatoes or corn on the side. You could also top it with additional cheese before serving for an extra indulgent touch, making it a satisfying comfort food akin to Shepherd's Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep the crescents crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crescent Meat Loaf contains roughly 569 calories, with 21g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 635mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and gravy mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply assemble the dish and add the crescent rolls before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of brown gravy mix?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make your own gravy using beef broth, flour, and seasonings. This way, you can control the flavor and texture of the gravy. Just whisk together equal parts flour and fat, then gradually add the broth while stirring until thickened.
Can I freeze leftover Crescent Meat Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).