Aunt Phyllis' Baked Chop Suey
A hearty baked casserole combining ground beef, vegetables, rice, and savory soup, topped with crunchy chow mein noodles—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet.
- Add chopped onions, celery, green pepper, cream of chicken rice soup, warm water, and rice to the beef.
- Mix well and transfer to a casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven, top with chow mein noodles, and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or ginger when browning the beef. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat alternative instead of beef. You might also swap the cream of chicken soup for a cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This baked chop suey is hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal, but it pairs nicely with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread for an extra touch. This dish can also be a great companion to the Quick One-Dish Supper for a comforting family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Phyllis' Baked Chop Suey contains roughly 713 calories, with 16g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini based on your preference. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking. You can also use a frozen mixed vegetable blend for convenience.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well, or use a homemade alternative using gluten-free ingredients.
What can I do if I don’t have chow mein noodles?
If you don't have chow mein noodles, you can substitute with crispy fried onions for a similar crunch. Alternatively, you can skip the topping altogether or use crushed tortilla chips for a different texture and flavor.
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).