Shelly's Recipe

4 CHEESE ITALIAN CASSEROLE

Category: Casseroles - Beef

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 (28 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp minced onion
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Topping:
3 cups baking mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 cups milk or buttermilk
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 375. To prepare sauce: Brown ground beef and drain excess fat. Stir in spaghetti sauce, salt, onion, pepper and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Bring to a simmer.

To prepare braided roll topping: Mix baking mix, cheddar cheese, garlic powder and milk; gently mix until dough ball is formed; place dough onto surface dusted with baking mix, and roll out to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into 1/2 inch strips. Braid together in pairs for form long braided rolls.

Pour sauce into 13x9 inch casserole dish. Spoon ricotta cheese evenly over top; sprinkle with Parmesan and add 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Place braided rolls lengthwise across top of sauce, approximately 1/2-inch apart and trim edges. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until braided roll twists are golden brown.