Chow Mein (Hamburger)
A hearty, savory dish combining ground beef, creamy soups, and mushrooms, perfect for a comforting family meal served over rice with crunchy chow mein noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the browned ground beef, undiluted cream of mushroom soup, undiluted chicken rice soup, sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and a dash of garlic powder in a pan.
- Simmer the mixture over medium heat until heated through and flavors meld.
- Serve over hot steamed rice and top with chow mein noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding soy sauce or sesame oil to the mixture. If you like vegetables, feel free to incorporate some stir-fried bell peppers or carrots. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes for the beef, making it a leaner option. To enhance the dish, a sprinkle of green onions on top can add freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chow mein over hot steamed rice, and finish with a generous topping of crispy chow mein noodles for texture. It pairs beautifully with Chinese Style Vegetables or a side of Egg Drop Noodle Soup for a complete meal. Adding a light salad with sesame dressing can also balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears dry. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it cools completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chow Mein (Hamburger) contains roughly 526 calories, with 20g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (131% of the Daily Value) and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg per serving (27% 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 meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for leaner meats.
What can I do if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a quick substitute by combining a cup of heavy cream with sautéed mushrooms and a bit of flour to thicken. Alternatively, a homemade white sauce can work as a replacement.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha into the mixture. You can also serve it with a spicy chili sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
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).