Spaghetti Crescent Casserole
A savory casserole combining spaghetti, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and flaky crescent rolls for a hearty, family-friendly meal bursting with cheesy and meaty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce mix and spaghetti sauce; heat until hot and bubbly.
- Combine shredded Mozzarella cheese and sour cream in a bowl.
- Spread cooked spaghetti into an ungreased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the meat mixture over the spaghetti in the dish.
- Spread the cheese and sour cream mixture over the meat layer.
- Separate the crescent dinner rolls into two rectangles and place over the cheese layer.
- Mix melted margarine with grated Parmesan cheese and crumble evenly over the dough.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for added tang and protein. If you’re short on time, precooked spaghetti can save you a step. To add more flavor, mix in some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables or a light soup to balance the richness. For a fun twist, top each serving with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, which helps maintain the crispness of the crescent rolls.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Crescent Casserole contains roughly 720 calories, with 32g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (63% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 907mg per serving (39% 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 cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Mozzarella is traditional for its melting qualities, you can experiment with other cheeses like Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or sautéed mushrooms. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).