Easy Oriental Casserole
A hearty, savory casserole combining ground beef, vegetables, creamy soups, and crunchy chow mein noodles, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the hamburger in oil and cut into walnut-sized pieces.
- Add the chopped onion and celery, cook until all vegetables are clear.
- Add the cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups.
- Mix all ingredients in a casserole dish.
- Top with chow mein noodles.
- Bake at 350°F until it bubbles through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also substitute the cream soups with a homemade version using low-fat milk and flour for thickening. Adding some frozen mixed vegetables can enhance the nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a bit of crunch, try using crushed tortilla chips instead of chow mein noodles.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for added nutrition. You might also consider serving it alongside some crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, serve with a side of Basic Chicken Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 30-second increments until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Oriental Casserole contains roughly 475 calories, with 12g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 849mg per serving (37% 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 a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for hamburger, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative to fit your dietary preferences.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce into the mix before baking. You can also top the casserole with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time until it’s hot and bubbly.
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).