Lunch Time Favorite
A comforting casserole featuring savory hamburger, creamy soup, and seasoned rice, topped with crunchy chow mein noodles for a satisfying lunch or quick dinner option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in a skillet.
- Add the cooked hamburger, uncooked rice, chopped onion, cream of chicken soup, and water to a casserole dish.
- Mix well and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle chow mein noodles over the top while hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the hamburger while browning. If you want a healthier twist, use ground turkey instead of hamburger, and replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using chicken broth and flour. You can also swap Minute rice for brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also enjoy serving it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. For a fun twist, serve with a side of chow mein noodles to complement the flavors and add crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. If you prefer a crispy topping, briefly broil the dish after reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lunch Time Favorite contains roughly 975 calories, with 29g protein, 177g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value) and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2791mg per serving (121% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be aware that you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I use different types of rice?
You can use other rice varieties like brown rice or jasmine rice, but cooking times may vary. If using brown rice, make sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly, as it typically requires more liquid and longer cooking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish goes well with a simple side salad or steamed broccoli. For something heartier, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a creamy coleslaw. You might also try serving it with a side of garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
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).