Chinese Ground Beef
A hearty Chinese-inspired ground beef casserole featuring tender green beans, bean sprouts, mushrooms, and crunchy chow mein noodles, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add salt, pepper, tomato soup, frozen green beans, drained bean sprouts, and drained mushrooms to the skillet.
- Simmer until the green beans thaw and flavors meld.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with chow mein noodles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and noodles are crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic and ginger when browning the beef and onion. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you can't find chow mein noodles, crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips can provide a similar crunch on top. Adding a splash of soy sauce can enhance the umami flavor of the dish, making it reminiscent of other Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a more substantial spread, consider serving it alongside egg rolls or spring rolls. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. The combination of flavors makes it a delightful option for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Ground Beef contains roughly 561 calories, with 7g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1873mg per serving (81% 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 fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can certainly use fresh green beans. Just trim and cut them into bite-sized pieces, and add them to the skillet during the cooking process. Fresh green beans will retain a bit more crunch compared to frozen ones, adding a nice texture to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in individual portions. Just keep the chow mein noodles separate until you're ready to serve to maintain their crispiness. It reheats well, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Simply sauté them with the beef and onion to allow them to soften and absorb the flavors. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a variety of colors and textures to the dish.
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).