Chow Mein, a classic dish in Chinese-American cuisine, is beloved for its versatility and savory appeal. Today, I’m excited to share a unique take on this favorite with a Midwestern twist: a Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole. This dish is the perfect fusion of East meets West, blending the comforting, hearty elements of an American casserole with the dynamic flavors of traditional stir-fried noodles. It’s a culinary creation born out of the need for convenience and a love for cultural exploration, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or friendly potlucks where its heartiness and unique flair are sure to impress.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside steamed green beans tossed with a bit of garlic, or a crisp Asian-inspired slaw dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. If you’re in the mood for a fuller meal, kick things off with a simple miso soup or a comforting bowl of egg drop soup, nodding to the roots of Chow Mein.
Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 3 cups thinly sliced cabbage
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 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 grated cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or chives, for garnish
Instructions:
Prep and Preheat:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Sauté Aromatics:
Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet with the beef, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add Veggies:
Stir in the celery and carrots, and cook for a few more minutes until they begin to soften. Then add the cabbage and mushrooms, continuing to cook until all the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the skillet, stirring well. Allow it to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine with Noodles:
Gently fold the cooked noodles into the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce and vegetable mixture.
Bake:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the top evenly with grated cheddar cheese.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped green onions or chives over the top before serving for a fresh, colorful finish.
This Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is a delightful way to blend familiar comfort food with the exotic flavors of a classic Chinese dish. It’s a surefire hit that brings warmth, satisfaction, and a bit of culinary adventure to any table. Enjoy creating this dish that marries the best of both worlds in one delicious casserole!