Chop Stick Casserole
Chop Stick Casserole is a comforting baked dish combining tender chicken or tuna with crunchy chow mein noodles, peas, and cashews. Its savory, creamy flavor profile makes it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delightful blend of textures and Asian-inspired notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the mushroom soup, diced chicken or tuna, diced celery, cooked peas, salted cashew nuts, chopped onion, and half of the chow mein noodles lightly in a bowl.
- Reserve 1 cup of chow mein noodles for the topping.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining noodles on top.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cooked chicken and turkey or substitute the cashew nuts with almonds for a different crunch. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the protein with chickpeas. Make sure to stir the mixture gently to avoid breaking the noodles. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot from the oven, garnished with additional cashews or green onions for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with Chicken With Spanish Rice for a hearty dinner or a simple side salad for a lighter option. This dish can also be enjoyed as a filling lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chop Stick Casserole contains roughly 895 calories, with 12g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 829mg per serving (36% 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 different types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute chow mein noodles with other types like egg noodles or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodle you choose to ensure they don't become too soft.
What can I do if I don't have mushroom soup?
If you don’t have mushroom soup, you can create a homemade version using a roux made from butter and flour, adding sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth for flavor. This will give you a creamy base without the canned soup.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. It’s 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).