Quick Chinese Casserole
A quick and hearty Chinese casserole combining ground beef, onions, peas, bean sprouts, and noodles in a comforting baked dish with savory mushroom flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and diced onions in a skillet.
- Transfer the cooked beef and onions to a casserole dish.
- Layer the frozen peas, drained bean sprouts, and cream of mushroom soup over the beef mixture.
- Place the Chinese noodles on top of the layered ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use low-fat cream of mushroom soup. If you prefer more vegetables, consider adding diced bell peppers or carrots. To enhance flavor, add soy sauce or sesame oil to the beef while cooking. This casserole is versatile and can be adapted with other Chinese recipes like adding cooked shrimp or chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Becky'S Egg Rolls, which complement the flavors nicely and add a crunchy texture to the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until warmed through, or cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. This will help retain moisture and keep the noodles from becoming too dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Chinese Casserole contains roughly 739 calories, with 17g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (54% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 882mg per serving (38% 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 other types of noodles instead of Chinese noodles?
Yes, you can use other noodles like rice noodles or even egg noodles. Just ensure they are cooked according to package instructions before layering them in the casserole. This will help achieve the desired texture in the final dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply use more vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Also, ensure to use a vegetable-based cream of mushroom soup to keep it vegetarian.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option.
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).