Craving a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this Meatball Sub Casserole recipe!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup bread crumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls
– 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs in the prepared baking dish.
4. Cover the meatballs with the crescent rolls and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the crescent rolls are golden brown.
6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 380
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Protein: 26g
– Fiber: 1g
**Popular questions:**
1. **Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?**
*Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lower-fat option.*
2. **Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?**
*Yes, you can use dried parsley in place of fresh, but the flavor may be slightly different.*
3. **Can I make this ahead of time and bake it later?**
*Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.*
4. **Can I freeze leftovers?**
*Yes, you can freeze any leftover casserole for up to 3 months.*
5. **What can I serve with this dish?**
*This casserole pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.*
6. **Can I use a different type of cheese?**
*Feel free to use any type of cheese you prefer in place of mozzarella.*
7. **Can I add additional seasonings to the meat mixture?**
*Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste.*
8. **Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making my own?**
*Yes, you can use pre-made meatballs if you’re looking to save time.*
9. **Can I use a different type of dough for the topping?**
*You can experiment with different types of dough, such as pizza dough or puff pastry.*
10. **How can I make this dish spicier?**
*Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.*
**Helpful tips:**
1. Try adding some diced onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
2. Brush the crescent rolls with melted butter before baking for a golden, buttery finish.
3. Sprinkle some Italian seasoning or dried oregano on top for extra flavor.
4. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
5. For a lighter option, use lean ground beef or turkey.
6. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
7. Top with additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
8. Customize with your favorite herbs and spices for a unique twist.
9. Experiment with different types of cheeses for variety.
10. Garnish with fresh basil or chopped green onions for a pop of color.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. To ensure perfectly cooked meatballs, check for an internal temperature of 160°F.
2. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Use a baking dish with higher sides to prevent any cheese from spilling over.
4. For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of baking.
5. Make sure to season the meat mixture well to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
6. Experiment with different types of bread crumbs for varied texture.
7. Add a touch of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for depth of flavor.
8. For a cheesy crust, sprinkle additional cheese on top before baking.
9. Consider adding a layer of marinara sauce between the meatballs and crescent rolls for extra sauciness.
10. Don’t skimp on the parsley – it adds a fresh, aromatic element to the dish.
