Chow Mein Beef Bake
A savory beef bake featuring tender beef, crunchy chow mein noodles, and hearty vegetables, perfect for a comforting family dinner with rich mushroom flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, combine beef, sliced celery, and chopped onion.
- Cook until the meat is browned, then drain excess fat.
- Add peeled and diced tomato, condensed cream of mushroom soup, water, and half of the chow mein noodles.
- Stir until well blended.
- Turn the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart dish.
- Top with the remaining chow mein noodles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful boost, consider adding soy sauce or ginger to the beef mixture. If you don't have chow mein noodles, you can substitute with regular spaghetti or even rice noodles. Feel free to include other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition. If you prefer, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
This Chow Mein Beef Bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve with soy sauce or sriracha on the side. You can also complement this dish with a light cucumber salad or some egg rolls for a delightful Asian-inspired dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chow Mein Beef Bake contains roughly 313 calories, with 8g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1073mg per serving (47% 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 beef mixture in advance and assemble it in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add the chow mein noodles on top and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Can I freeze Chow Mein Beef Bake?
Absolutely! To freeze, prepare the dish without baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the instructions.
What can I serve with Chow Mein Beef Bake?
This dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with fried rice for a filling meal, or serve with a clear soup like wonton soup for a comforting touch. A light dessert like fruit salad can also balance out the richness of the bake.
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).