Are you searching for a simple and satisfying dinner idea that the whole family will love? Look no further than Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chow Mein! This delicious dish combines savory ground beef with crisp vegetables and flavorful seasonings, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. With minimal prep and hands-on time, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this classic recipe. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of celery, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 can (5 ounces) water chestnuts, drained and sliced
- 8 ounces of chow mein noodles or spaghetti, cooked and drained
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced celery, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, black pepper, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Cook the Chow Mein:
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended.
4. Add the Vegetables:
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix, julienned carrot, and sliced water chestnuts. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Serve:
- Serve the ground beef chow mein over cooked chow mein noodles or spaghetti.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
- Extra Flavor: Add diced bell peppers, snap peas, or bamboo shoots for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice It Up: Increase the amount of ground ginger or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and gluten-free chow mein noodles or spaghetti for a gluten-free version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Allow the leftover chow mein to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish? A: Certainly! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto:
- Low-Carb Noodles: Substitute chow mein noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content.
- Sugar-Free Sauces: Use sugar-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to keep the dish keto-friendly.
Low-Carb:
- Vegetable Base: Increase the amount of vegetables and reduce the noodles to make a lower-carb version of the dish.
With its rich flavors, tender beef, and vibrant vegetables, Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chow Mein is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight meal or hosting a casual dinner party, this recipe is a delicious and satisfying option. Plus, with its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, you can tailor it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
