Cashew Hot Dish
Creamy, savory cashew hot dish combines hamburger, mushrooms, olives, and melted cheese, topped with crispy chow mein noodles and cashews for a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and diced onion in a skillet. Drain the grease.
- In a saucepan, heat the mushrooms, sliced olives, American cheese, mushroom soup, sour cream, and cooking sherry until the cheese melts and the sauce is well combined.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Add the cooked hamburger mixture and all ingredients except the chow mein noodles and cashews.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (163°C) for 45 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, top the casserole with chow mein noodles and cashews, then return to the oven to finish cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using cream cheese instead of sour cream or adding a bit more cheese. If you're short on American cheese, a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can work as a substitute. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile. Consider using leftover cooked meat for a quicker prep, similar to how you might use in a Red Bean Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Cashew Hot Dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, you might enjoy it with a serving of Golden Onion Pork Chops as a protein-rich side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cashew Hot Dish contains roughly 484 calories, with 12g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (37% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without the chow mein noodles and cashews, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just add the toppings and cook as directed. This method is great for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of hamburger?
Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative to hamburger in this recipe. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, you can use a meat substitute like lentils or crumbled tempeh, seasoned to your taste, ensuring that the dish remains flavorful and satisfying.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through, or microwave individual portions directly from the freezer.
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).