Hearty Beef And Cheese Casserole
A comforting casserole combining seasoned ground beef, green beans, and melted Cheddar cheese, wrapped in flaky crescent roll crust. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers hearty flavors with a cheesy, savory profile that appeals to meat lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked mixture.
- Stir in tomato sauce, green beans, and garlic salt; simmer while preparing the crust.
- Spread crescent roll dough in an ungreased 9-inch pie pan and up the sides.
- Pour the beef mixture over the dough.
- Brush the top with the slightly beaten egg.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If you don't have crescent rolls, you can use puff pastry or even a homemade dough. Customize the veggies by adding corn or mushrooms to the filling for more texture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ground beef can speed up the process. This dish is one of many delicious American recipes that incorporate ground beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. It pairs well with crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up any sauce. For a fun twist, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the crust crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Beef And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 767 calories, with 28g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 606mg per serving (26% 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 prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's chilled. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Experimenting with different cheeses can add a unique twist to the casserole.
What should I do if my crescent roll dough is too sticky?
If your crescent roll dough is sticky, lightly flour your hands and the surface while working with it. You can also chill the dough for a few minutes in the refrigerator to make it easier to handle. This will help you spread it evenly in the pie pan without tearing.
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).