Chinese Hamburger
This Chinese Hamburger is a comforting casserole that combines savory hamburger meat with aromatic vegetables and creamy soups, all topped with crispy chow mein noodles. It's a delightful fusion dish that suits families looking for a hearty meal that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion and celery; cook until transparent. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, warm water, cooked rice, soy sauce, and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Top with chow mein noodles and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger, which complements the flavors well. You can substitute the cream soups with homemade versions using broth and milk for a healthier twist. Adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the dish's flavor and texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate some chili garlic sauce into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chinese Hamburger casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Chinese Chicken Salad for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with jasmine rice or egg rolls on the side.
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 for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. This dish also freezes well; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Hamburger contains roughly 1217 calories, with 13g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1049mg per serving (46% 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 up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground beef is traditional, but feel free to experiment with ground turkey, chicken, or even meat alternatives for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides. Try pairing it with steamed broccoli or a light cucumber salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside fried rice or spring rolls, which also complements the Asian 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).