Ground Beef Chow Mein
A savory stir-fry featuring ground beef, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful soy-based sauce, perfect for a quick, satisfying Chinese-inspired meal suitable for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook celery, onions, and ground beef until browned.
- Drain excess fat and liquid from the cooked mixture.
- Mix cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water until smooth.
- Add soy sauce to the cornstarch mixture and stir well.
- Pour the sauce into the beef and vegetable mixture, stirring until thick and clear.
- Add chopped cabbage, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Serve hot over rice or Chinese noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation on this dish, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Remember to adjust the soy sauce based on your taste preference, especially if you are watching your sodium intake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Ground Beef Chow Mein hot over steamed rice or Chinese noodles for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad for added texture. For a more authentic experience, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or green onions before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Ground Beef Chow Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef Chow Mein contains roughly 704 calories, with 47g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (93% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2878mg per serving (125% 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 pre-cooked beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked beef to save time. Just make sure to heat it thoroughly before adding the vegetables and sauce. This will ensure everything is well combined and heated through, allowing the flavors to meld nicely.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute for soy sauce. Alternatively, coconut aminos can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these sauces can vary in saltiness.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Chow Mein?
Yes, you can freeze Ground Beef Chow Mein for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
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).