Shanghai Casserole
Shanghai Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish blending ground beef, rice, vegetables, and savory mushroom soup, enhanced with soy sauce and seasonings. The optional Chinese noodles add an authentic touch. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a harmonious mix of flavors and textures in a satisfying baked casserole.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with onion and garlic powders in a lightly greased skillet.
- Add chopped celery, drained Veg-All vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup to the skillet.
- Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, pepper, and seasonings until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a dash of ginger. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers or green beans can also enhance the dish. Make sure to adjust cooking time if you're using freshly cooked rice rather than leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with sliced green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Chinese Spring Rolls for a delightful combination of flavors.
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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shanghai Casserole contains roughly 516 calories, with 18g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (113% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 907mg per serving (39% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. It's a great way to make this dish a bit healthier.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or use a mix of mushrooms and lentils for texture and depth. You can also use vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup to maintain the creaminess without the meat.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a tablespoon of sriracha or chili sauce to the casserole mixture before baking. You can also top the finished dish with crushed red pepper flakes or serve it with a side of spicy stir-fried vegetables for a flavorful kick.
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).