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This chow mein casserole has been a beloved comfort food in my family for years. It blends the savory goodness of ground beef, creamy soups, and rice with the delightful crunch of chow mein noodles. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, it also brings a little Midwestern charm to the table.
This recipe reminds me of the warm family dinners I shared with my mother—in—law. It’s become a staple that brings back memories and offers that cozy feel only good comfort food can provide.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: three pounds lean ground beef keeps it hearty but not greasy.
- Celery: one and a half cups chopped adds just the right subtle crunch and freshness.
- Water: half a cup to soften the celery—microwaving it helps keep it tender.
- Onions: two medium ones finely chopped build deep flavor.
- Cooked rice: two cups I prefer brown instant rice, but white or wild rice works too the rice adds bulk and soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Cream of tomato soup: ten—ounce can gives a tangy richness.
- Cream of mushroom soup: ten—ounce can provides earthiness and creaminess.
- Dry chow mein noodles: half a 14—ounce package for crispy texture contrast in the casserole.
- Soy sauce: three tablespoons plus extra for serving adds umami and saltiness.
- Garnish options: include dry chow mein noodles for topping, extra soy sauce to taste, and chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Notes: Selecting quality ground beef with lower fat percentage makes the casserole less greasy. Fresh celery stalks should be firm and crisp. Canned soups are best if you choose lower sodium or organic versions when possible.
Instructions
- Prep and Preheat:
- Spray a large three—quart casserole dish with non—stick cooking spray. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius so it’s ready for baking.
- Soften the Celery:
- Place the chopped celery in a microwave—safe dish with half a cup of water and cover. Microwave on high for 4 to 5 minutes until the celery softens but still holds its texture. Drain any excess water once done.
- Brown the Ground Beef and Onions:
- In a large skillet over medium—high heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onions. Cook thoroughly until the beef is no longer pink and the onions turn translucent and slightly golden. This step establishes a savory meaty base.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked celery, browned beef and onions, cooked rice, cream of tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, and the dry chow mein noodles. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to incorporate the flavors evenly. Doing this in a bowl makes mixing easier and keeps the casserole dish clean.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Then evenly sprinkle the soy sauce over the top to infuse that savory taste throughout the bake.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes which allows everything to meld together and get heated through while the edges start to get slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, sprinkle additional dry chow mein noodles on top for extra crunch. Add chopped green onions and drizzle extra soy sauce to taste. Serve warm for the best comforting experience.
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My favorite ingredient here has to be the chow mein noodles. Adding them both inside the casserole and on top as a garnish is a simple trick that creates the perfect balance between tender and crispy. It reminds me of family gatherings where this dish always disappeared quickly from the table, a true crowd—pleaser.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep the casserole fresh. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the noodle crunch. For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground beef can be swapped for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish and reduce fat. If you want to skip rice, use any cooked pasta like macaroni or even mashed potatoes for a different texture. Cream soups can be substituted with homemade creamy sauces if you prefer fresh from—scratch cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This chow mein casserole pairs well with simple mixed or steamed vegetables and a crisp green salad to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
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This chow mein casserole is an easy, nostalgic crowd—pleaser that freezes well for meal prep. Enjoy it warm with extra chow mein noodles for crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What makes this hotdish unique?
The combination of ground beef, rice, creamy tomato and mushroom soups, plus crispy chow mein noodles create a contrast of textures and flavors typical of Minnesota's comfort food.
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter version without losing the dish’s hearty quality.
- → What type of rice works best here?
Brown instant rice is used for convenience, but white, wild, jasmine, or even cauliflower rice can be used to adjust texture and nutrition.
- → How do the chow mein noodles enhance the dish?
They add a crunchy texture contrast when mixed in and sprinkled on top, balancing the creamy and soft ingredients.
- → Is this dish suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, it stores well in an airtight container frozen for up to three months and reheats nicely without losing flavor or texture.