Ground Beef Chow Mein Delight

This crowd-pleasing ground beef chow mein casserole brings back memories of Sunday family dinners at my grandmother's house. The combination of savory meat, rice, and crispy noodles creates comfort food with an Asian-inspired twist that satisfies even the pickiest eaters in my family.

I started making this dish in college when I was homesick for grandma's cooking. Twenty years later, it's still the most requested meal when my siblings come to visit with their families.

• Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and rich flavor the base of this casserole
• Cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess without complicated sauce making
• Cream of mushroom soup: Contributes umami depth even mushroom haters enjoy
• Diced onion: Brings essential aromatic quality use yellow for milder flavor
• Chopped celery: Adds pleasant texture and subtle flavor use inner ribs for tenderness
• Water chestnuts: Provide the signature crunch that elevates this dish beyond ordinary casseroles
• Uncooked white rice: Absorbs flavors while cooking no need to precook
• Water: Creates perfect moisture balance for cooking the rice
• Soy sauce: Delivers savory Asian flavor opt for low sodium if watching salt intake
• Chow mein noodles: Create the irresistible crispy topping that makes this dish memorable

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no pink remains, about 7 minutes. Drain excess fat completely to prevent greasy casserole. Dice onion into small uniform pieces. Chop celery into small bite-sized pieces approximately 1/4 inch. Drain and chop water chestnuts into smaller pieces to distribute the crunch throughout.

Mix the Casserole Base:

Combine browned ground beef, both soups, diced onion, chopped celery, and chopped water chestnuts in a large mixing bowl. Stir until ingredients are evenly distributed. Add uncooked rice, water, and soy sauce to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure rice is evenly distributed and will cook properly.

Prepare for Baking:

Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Spread evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout. Cover tightly with aluminum foil, creating a good seal to trap steam which helps cook the rice properly.

Bake the Casserole:

Place covered dish in preheated 350°F oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes. The casserole should be bubbling around the edges and the rice fully tender when done. Carefully remove foil, avoiding the hot steam that will escape.

Add Crispy Topping:

Sprinkle chow mein noodles evenly across the entire surface of the hot casserole. Return to oven uncovered for exactly 10 minutes until noodles are golden and crisp but not burnt.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow casserole to rest for a full 5 minutes before serving. This crucial step lets the moisture distribute evenly throughout the dish for perfect texture.

My grandmother always insisted on using the canned water chestnuts rather than fresh. She claimed they provided just the right amount of crunch without overwhelming the dish. This subtle detail is what makes this recipe truly special in my family collection.

Make Ahead Options

This casserole shines as a make ahead meal. You can prepare the entire mixture up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking, then add about 15 minutes to the covered baking time. The chow mein noodles should always be added fresh just before the final baking stage for maximum crispness.

Freezer Friendly Tips

This casserole freezes beautifully without the chow mein noodle topping. Prepare through step 3, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. Purchase fresh chow mein noodles for topping when ready to serve. The texture remains perfect even after freezing which makes this an excellent meal prep option.

Flavor Variations

Consider these delicious ways to customize this family favorite. Swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version. Add 1 cup of frozen peas during the final 15 minutes of baking for color and nutrition. Incorporate 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce along with the soy sauce for deeper Asian flavor. Sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving for fresh flavor and color. Each variation maintains the comforting essence of the original while offering a new experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for beef to make it lighter. Ensure it’s properly browned to avoid excess moisture.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra flavor and texture. Chop them finely for even cooking.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice can be used, but it may need additional cooking time and liquid. Ensure the rice is fully cooked before serving.

→ How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and soups, and replace the chow mein noodles with a gluten-free alternative for a safe and tasty option.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Pair it with a simple side salad, steamed broccoli, or even egg rolls for a complete meal.