Indulge in a culinary journey to Italy with our delectable Italian Bake Casserole. This classic dish, often referred to as Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole, is a hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the irresistible taste of Italian sausage, tender rice, juicy vegetables, and a creamy sauce. Every bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With variations ranging from a traditional Italian sausage and rice casserole to a more contemporary chicken and spinach version, this versatile dish promises a delightful experience for every palate. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as we unveil the secrets behind this beloved Italian casserole.
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ITALIAN CRESCENT BAKE CASSEROLE
Crescent rolls with a savory Italian filling with mozzarella cheese. Ready in 30 minutes for a quick weeknight dinner. For more delicious recipe Visit @ http://recipesnfood.com
Provided by Jane Kaylie
Categories Beef
Time 35m
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray a pie pan with cooking spray. Saute the ground beef in a frying pan. When browned stir in the spaghetti sauce. Cook for a couple of minutes and remove from heat.
- 2. While the ground beef is browning open the crescent rolls. Unroll them and fill the pie pan in a spoke pattern laying the thickest end on the bottom of the pie pan. Leave a 3 inch overhang on the sides to cover the top with.
- 3. Spread 1¼ cups of the mozzarella cheese on top of the crescent rolls. Top with the ground beef mixture. Fold over the crescent rolls and pinch the ends together in the center. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the crescent rolls, sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.
- 4. Bake at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes.
ITALIAN BAKE CASSEROLE
This casserole looks every bit as good it tastes! The aroma of the sausage and the onions, garlic and peppers all blended so well. My husband came into the kitchen and said it smelled like an Italian restaurant! I see this being a great recipe to take to a pot luck... everyone will love it!
Provided by Diane Taylor
Categories Casseroles
Time 55m
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- 1. In large skillet, cook Italian sausage until slices are no longer pink, about 10 minutes.
- 2. Remove sausage from the skillet and reserve about 2 tablespoons of the drippings.
- 3. In skillet, saute mushrooms, onions, bell pepper and garlic just under tender-crisp.
- 4. In large bowl, combine sausage, mushrooms, bell pepper mixture, stewed tomatoes, Italian seasoning.
- 5. Place a layer of pasta on the bottom of dish. Spoon mixture into a greased 3-quart or 9x13 baking dish. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and repeat layers.
- 6. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle remaining cheese over top of casserole and return to oven for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted on top.
- 7. Variation: I always use spaghetti sauce instead of the Italian stewed tomatoes and season to my taste. I cook the sausage, onions, peppers and add to the spaghetti sauce. The sauce is cooked for 4 to 5 hours in the crock-pot and then layered in a casserole or 9x13 baking dish. I tend to use 2 cups of cheese because we are cheese lovers. To change the taste I will vary the cheese with the shredded Italian blend cheese along with the mozzarella cheese. I cook this until the casserole is heated throughout and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
Tips:
- For a creamier casserole, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- If you don't have Italian sausage, you can substitute ground beef or pork.
- Add some chopped spinach or kale to the casserole for a veggie-packed meal.
- Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese before baking.
- Serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.
Conclusion:
Italian bake casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. It is packed with flavor from the Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, and herbs. The pasta and bread crumbs make it hearty and filling. This casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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