Chinese Bake
Chinese Bake is a comforting casserole combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and flavorful soy sauce, enriched with creamy soups and crunchy celery. Topped with Chinese noodles during baking, it's a hearty dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delicious fusion of classic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chopped celery, soy sauce, uncooked rice, and water.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
- During the last 15 minutes of baking, add the medium can of Chinese noodles on top.
- Return to the oven and bake until heated through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture. If you're short on time, substituting precooked rice for uncooked can reduce baking time. For a lighter version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This recipe can also be adapted using different soups, like cream of celery or broccoli, to give it a unique taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chinese Bake with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken and Corn Soup for a comforting dinner. For added flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Bake contains roughly 365 calories, with 14g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2170mg per serving (94% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. You may need to increase the water and baking time to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender. Adjust the liquid and add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time for best results.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed until heated through.
What can I serve with this dish?
This casserole is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh cucumber salad or fried rice for a fuller meal. You might also enjoy it with a side of steamed bok choy or a simple stir-fried vegetable medley to complement the flavors.
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).