Chinese Casserole With Hamburger
A hearty Chinese casserole combining ground beef, vegetables, and savory soups, topped with crispy chow mein noodles for a comforting, flavorful meal suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the margarine, celery, and onion together in a skillet.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Drain excess fat and stir in soy sauce, tomato soup, mushroom soup, and Chinese vegetables.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Top the casserole with chow mein noodles.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the margarine with butter or using a mix of fresh ginger and garlic for a more aromatic base. You can also swap out the canned Chinese vegetables for fresh stir-fried options like bell peppers and snap peas. If you're looking for a lighter version, ground turkey can replace the beef. Serve with a side of steamed rice to complement the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is best served warm and pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside some Gyoza for an authentic touch. Enjoying a slice of this comforting dish with family makes for a delightful weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy topping, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, allowing the chow mein noodles to regain their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Casserole With Hamburger contains roughly 1144 calories, with 19g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2019mg per serving (88% 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 other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used as substitutes for ground beef in this casserole. Each option will offer a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
What can I do if I don't have chow mein noodles?
If chow mein noodles are unavailable, you can use crispy fried onions or even crushed potato chips as a topping. Alternatively, you can serve the casserole over rice or noodles for a hearty meal without the crispy layer.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the casserole, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or diced tofu, and ensure the soups used are vegetarian-friendly. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added 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).