Jean'S Mess
Jean's Mess is a hearty, comforting beef and soup casserole with rich flavors, perfect for family dinners and those craving a savory, filling meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Add the cream of celery, mushroom, chicken, beef vegetable with barley, chicken gumbo, and chicken and rice soups, one at a time, without water or milk.
- Cook on low heat for 45 minutes or until bubbly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve over Chinese noodles, egg noodles, or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the mixture. If you're out of any of the cream soups, you can substitute with homemade white sauce or a different canned soup of similar consistency. To lighten the dish, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For added vegetables, toss in some frozen mixed veggies while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jean's Mess over a bed of Chinese noodles, egg noodles, or rice to soak up the flavorful sauces. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Sugared Asparagus for a fresh contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette alongside. This dish also makes for great leftovers for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or warm the entire pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the mixture thickens too much, add a little broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Mess contains roughly 1125 calories, with 42g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (84% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value). 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 make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Jean's Mess a day ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. This dish often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld overnight.
What type of noodles work best for serving?
Chinese noodles are a great choice for this dish due to their texture and ability to absorb the sauces. However, egg noodles or even rice can work well too, depending on your preference. Each option brings a different flavor and texture to the meal.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, Jean's Mess freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stove or 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).