Chinese Casserole
Chinese Casserole is a hearty and savory dish combining ground beef, vegetables, and flavorful soups, topped with Chinese noodles for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers comforting flavors with a touch of Asian-inspired seasoning, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add chopped onions, chopped celery, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, water, soy sauce, and drained mushrooms to the beef. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a covered casserole dish and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and add Chinese noodles on top of the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until noodles are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, you can substitute lean ground turkey for the beef. If you don't have cream soups, a homemade white sauce can work as a substitute. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition. For a quicker meal, use pre-cooked rice. This dish can also be made with other Chinese recipes like Chicken Sub-Gum for variety.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it alongside Hot And Sour Vegetable Soup for a complete meal. For a more substantial meal, consider serving with egg rolls or fried rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the noodles crisper.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Casserole contains roughly 812 calories, with 30g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (88% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 substitute brown rice for white rice, but remember that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the water to 2 cups and extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use additional vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots. Just ensure to use vegetable-based cream soups and broth for a fully vegetarian dish.
Can I freeze this casserole for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble the ingredients, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes for a great make-ahead meal!
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).