If you’re craving a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole recipe. Packed with savory ground beef, an array of colorful vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this comforting dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole!
Introduction
Chow Mein Casserole is a delightful fusion of Asian and American flavors, combining the rich umami taste of ground beef with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the subtle sweetness of a savory sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies for a wholesome and balanced meal. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner option, this Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For Garnish:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated (optional)
- Green onions or chives, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the chopped celery, julienned carrots, sliced cabbage, and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, beef broth, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour the sauce over the ground beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the cooked Chow Mein noodles or spaghetti to the greased baking dish. Spread them out evenly to form the base of the casserole.
- Pour the ground beef and vegetable mixture over the noodles, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- If desired, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle chopped green onions or chives over the top of the casserole.
- Serve the Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole hot, garnished with additional cheese and green onions if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Noodle Options: Feel free to use your favorite type of noodles in this recipe, such as egg noodles, udon noodles, or rice noodles.
- Vegetable Variations: Customize the vegetable mix to your liking by adding bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or any other vegetables you have on hand.
- Spice Level: Adjust the level of spice in the dish by adding crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Simply cover the assembled casserole with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Keto and Low Carb Version
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this recipe, simply omit the Chow Mein noodles or spaghetti and serve the ground beef and vegetable mixture on a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead. Additionally, use coconut aminos or tamari in place of soy sauce to reduce the carb content.
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and use a meat substitute such as crumbled tofu or tempeh, or add extra vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
In conclusion, this Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With its delicious blend of savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, and aromatic sauce, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re craving a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine or simply looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!
