Chow Mein Hot Dish
Chow Mein Hot Dish is a hearty, comforting casserole blending savory ground beef, tender celery, and flavorful mushroom and tomato soups. Topped with crunchy chow mein noodles, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and onions together in a skillet.
- Cook celery in water until tender, then reserve the liquid.
- Mix the cooked hamburger, onions, celery, mushroom soup, tomato soup, and reserved liquid in a large bowl.
- Layer the mixture in a baking dish, alternating with chow mein noodles.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger or adding some soy sauce or garlic powder to the mixture. You can also substitute fresh mushrooms for canned mushroom soup for a more robust taste. If you prefer a crunchier texture, reserve some chow mein noodles to sprinkle on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chow Mein Hot Dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Sara'S Breakfast Strata for a hearty brunch option. You can also top it with additional chow mein noodles just before serving for extra crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chow Mein Hot Dish contains roughly 568 calories, with 12g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 819mg 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling everything and storing it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the tomato soup with a can of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. This will give a similar base while allowing you to customize the taste. You might also enhance the flavor with Italian herbs like basil or oregano.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Chow Mein Hot Dish freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely after baking, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. It can be kept for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
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).