Hearty Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and creamy soups, topped with crunchy chow mein noodles—perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped celery in a skillet.
- Cook until browned.
- Add cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, water, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet.
- Stir everything together and transfer to a greased two-quart casserole dish.
- Top with chow mein noodles.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can enhance the dish with spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning. If you don't have chow mein noodles, crispy fried onions can be a great alternative. To save time, use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice from another meal. This casserole can also be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread for a comforting dinner. For variation, you can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It’s a satisfying dish that fits well with many American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Casserole contains roughly 523 calories, with 12g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1625mg per serving (71% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time for the cold casserole.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, you can use homemade cream soup or a dairy-free alternative. Blending silken tofu with broth and seasonings can also mimic the creamy texture of traditional cream soups.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
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).