Easy Italian Casserole
This hearty Italian casserole combines savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, layered with a biscuit topping for a comforting and flavorful dish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a satisfying balance of cheesy, meaty, and seasoned goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and stir ground beef, chopped onion, and garlic until brown; drain.
- Stir in tomato sauce, mushroom pieces, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Mix Bisquick baking mix, milk, and egg until smooth.
- Spread half of the batter in the prepared pan.
- Top with 4 slices of American cheese.
- Spoon the cooked beef mixture over the cheese.
- Top with remaining cheese slices and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Drop remaining dough by spoonfuls onto the cheese layer.
- Sprinkle with paprika if desired.
- Bake until light brown, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground Italian sausage instead of beef. You can also add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the American cheese with mozzarella or provolone. Make sure to drain the mushrooms well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Italian Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing touch, serve it with a light vinaigrette. You can also consider a classic Italian dish like Classic Lasagna to round out your dinner table with comforting flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored 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 the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Italian Casserole contains roughly 496 calories, with 11g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1562mg per serving (68% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for Bisquick?
If you don't have Bisquick, you can make a homemade baking mix using 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This will work similarly in the recipe, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout.
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).