Mock Chop Suey Casserole
A hearty, savory casserole combining hamburger, vegetables, and chow mein noodles, perfect for a comforting family dinner with rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a separate pan and cook the rice according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, brown the hamburger, chopped celery, and chopped onion until fully cooked.
- Add the mushroom soup, 1 can of water, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the chow mein noodles and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve the hot casserole over the cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for hamburger and use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a bit of sour cream with the mushroom soup. Adjust the soy sauce to taste to suit your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This Mock Chop Suey Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh Spinach Salad With Hot Vinaigrette Dressing for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for added color and nutrition. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. For best results, you can also reheat in a skillet over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Chop Suey Casserole contains roughly 1432 calories, with 51g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (103% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven until heated through, adding extra time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery as a substitute. For a homemade option, mix equal parts of heavy cream and broth with sautéed mushrooms to mimic the flavor of mushroom soup.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven 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).