Quick Italian Supper
A quick, flavorful Italian-inspired casserole featuring seasoned beef, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella, topped with biscuits—perfect for a hearty, easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onions, and crushed garlic in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add canned whole tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, oregano, and basil to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Transfer the beef and tomato mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with quartered refrigerator biscuits and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or until biscuits are golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the beef mixture while it simmers. If you don't have oregano or basil, Italian seasoning can be a suitable substitute. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the dish and increase its nutritional value. This recipe is perfect for using up pantry staples and is comparable to other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Quick Italian Supper with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of Parish Pasta Salad would pair nicely, adding a refreshing touch. This dish is also great for meal prep and works well as a comforting weeknight dinner. Feel free to garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated, which helps maintain the texture of the biscuits.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Italian Supper contains roughly 906 calories, with 55g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (174% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2631mg per serving (114% 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 frozen ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but it should be thawed before cooking. For best results, plan ahead and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you're short on time, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave, but be careful not to start cooking it.
What can I substitute for the mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella cheese on hand, you can use shredded cheddar or provolone as alternatives. Both will melt nicely and add a different flavor profile to the dish. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cheese that melts well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the beef mixture while it simmers. Adjust the amount to your taste preference. Additionally, serving with a spicy marinara sauce on the side can enhance the flavor and give it an extra kick.
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).