Beef And Chow Mein Noodle Casserole
A hearty beef and noodle casserole combining savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and crispy chow mein noodles, perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in butter.
- Add chopped green pepper and simmer until tender.
- In a separate pan, cook celery, onion, salt, and water until the celery is tender.
- Add cream of mushroom soup and blend well, then add to the meat mixture.
- Add one-third of the chow mein noodles to the meat mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining chow mein noodles on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish. You can also use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup for a healthier option. If you prefer more vegetables, add mushrooms or carrots to the mix when cooking the celery and onion. For extra flavor, consider adding soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole serves well with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of pickled vegetables for a nice crunch. For a fun twist, try making Jack-O-Lantern Burgers as a themed meal to accompany this comforting dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Chow Mein Noodle Casserole contains roughly 711 calories, with 4g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1412mg per serving (61% 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 fresh noodles instead of canned chow mein noodles?
Yes, you can use fresh chow mein noodles for a different texture. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the casserole. Fresh noodles will give the dish a delightful chewiness and enhanced flavor.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can use homemade cream of mushroom sauce or a mix of sour cream and milk with sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. Another option is a dairy-free cream soup made from blended cauliflower or cashews for a lighter alternative.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of water and choose a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup. This will keep the dish hearty and satisfying while catering to vegetarian diets.
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).