Cashew Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender beef, mushrooms, olives, and crunchy chow mein noodles, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich flavors and varied textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Brown the chopped beef and chopped onion in a skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked meat and onions to the drained noodles, discarding any excess grease.
- Saute sliced mushrooms in 1 tablespoon of butter until lightly browned.
- Add the sautéed mushrooms, chopped celery, sliced olives, milk, and cream of mushroom soup to the noodle and beef mixture.
- Mix everything thoroughly and transfer to a casserole dish.
- Bake, covered, in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle chow mein noodles and salted cashews over the top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or Worcestershire sauce while browning the beef. You can substitute the beef with ground turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, use mushrooms and additional vegetables in place of meat. The recipe can also be adjusted by adding spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
This Cashew Beef Casserole pairs well with a fresh Salad Provencale or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. For a complete meal, serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. Leftovers can be enjoyed as a hearty lunch, making it versatile and satisfying.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions, covered, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cashew Beef Casserole contains roughly 1457 calories, with 22g protein, 180g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (54% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 465mg per serving (20% 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 prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook it. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and seasonings. Alternatively, a can of cream of chicken soup can work well, or a dairy-free option like cashew cream if you're looking for a non-dairy substitute.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
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).