Quick And Easy Ground Beef Crescent Bake
A quick and cheesy ground beef casserole with a savory tomato sauce and melty mozzarella, topped with crescent roll crust—perfect for hearty weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the browned and drained ground beef, Ragu sauce, sour cream, and grated mozzarella cheese in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a large casserole dish sprayed with nonstick spray.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange the rolls on top of the beef mixture to form a crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, consider using pre-cooked ground beef or even leftover beef from dishes like Hamburger Rice Pot. If you're looking for a lighter option, swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt. Additionally, feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, serve with garlic bread or a warm baguette. You can also complement it with a light wine or iced tea to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Ground Beef Crescent Bake contains roughly 567 calories, with 40g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value), calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 690mg per serving (30% 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 use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
What can I serve with the Ground Beef Crescent Bake?
This dish is versatile and goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crispy potato wedges to create a hearty meal. Garlic bread or a warm roll can also be a great addition.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).