Hamburger Rice Chow Mein
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, vegetables, and chow mein noodles, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and minced onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add the uncooked rice, diced celery, chicken rice soup, water, salt, and soy sauce to the cooked meat and onion mixture.
- Transfer everything to a casserole dish.
- Bake covered at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven, stir in the can of chow mein noodles.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger when browning the hamburger and onion. You can substitute the hamburger with turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. If you have leftover cooked rice, you can use it instead of uncooked rice, reducing the baking time slightly to around 30-40 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hamburger Rice Chow Mein hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. For an extra crunch, consider serving with a side of crispy wontons or egg rolls, enhancing your meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out, reheating at 350°F until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Rice Chow Mein contains roughly 481 calories, with 14g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it requires a longer cooking time. You may need to add more water and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or even sautéed mushrooms and tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken rice soup for a fully vegetarian dish.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if starting from cold.
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).