Chinese Wiggle
A hearty and comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, peas, tomatoes, and noodles, perfect for family dinners and satisfying cravings with savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef.
- Slice onion very thinly and layer over the cooked beef.
- Simmer covered for 5 minutes.
- Place peas on top of the beef and onions.
- Cook and drain noodles, then place them on top of the beef mixture.
- Add whole tomatoes over the noodles.
- Put butter pieces over the tomatoes.
- Simmer uncovered on very low heat for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger when browning the beef. If you're out of peas, green beans or corn can be excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or mushrooms instead of beef. Ensure the noodles are al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce. This dish is versatile and can be customized with various vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad to balance the richness of the beef. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a bowl of soup or a side of Grandma'S Pork-Fried Rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. If the noodles have absorbed too much moisture, you can add a bit of broth to restore their texture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Wiggle contains roughly 723 calories, with 3g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C.
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 a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the meat used to ensure it is fully cooked.
What kind of noodles should I use?
You can use any type of noodle, but egg noodles or spaghetti work best for this recipe. If you prefer a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or zucchini noodles as a substitute.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the final simmering step, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of liquid if necessary to keep it moist.
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).