Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is a hearty dish that combines savory ground beef, a variety of vegetables, noodles, and a flavorful sauce, all baked to perfection with a cheesy topping. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious blend of textures and flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Versatile: Packed with a mix of vegetables, tender beef, and noodles, all coated in a savory sauce.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this casserole accessible for any home cook.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.
- Customizable: Adjust the vegetables and spices to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Freezer-Friendly: Prepare ahead and freeze for a convenient meal option.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 3 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 8 ounces cooked Chow Mein noodles or cooked spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil and set aside.
Cooking:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the diced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add the chopped celery and julienned carrots, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the sliced cabbage and mushrooms, cooking until all the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this sauce over the cooked beef and vegetables, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Bake:
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to ensure everything is well combined and coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using cheese, top evenly with the grated cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and begins to brown.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or chives before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips:
- Customize the vegetables to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce, oyster sauce, and noodles to make this recipe gluten-free.
Enjoy preparing and sharing this delicious Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole! If you have more recipes or need further assistance, feel free to ask.