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Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole

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    Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole

    Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is a delicious fusion of Chinese and American cuisine that brings together the savory flavors of ground beef, crunchy chow mein noodles, and a medley of vegetables, all baked to perfection in a creamy, flavorful sauce. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and meal prepping, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

    The origins of chow mein can be traced back to China, where it is a popular dish made with stir-fried noodles and a variety of vegetables and proteins. When Chinese immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States, chow mein quickly became a beloved dish, especially in the mid-20th century. The Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is a modern adaptation, blending the traditional flavors of chow mein with the convenience and comfort of a casserole, making it an easy and delicious option for busy families.

    Ingredients

    For the Casserole:

    • 1 pound ground beef
    • 1 large onion, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
    • 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
    • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
    • 1 cup bean sprouts
    • 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
    • 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
    • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/2 cup chicken broth
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 4 cups chow mein noodles

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    For the Topping:

    • 1 cup chow mein noodles
    • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

    Instructions

    Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

    Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

    1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
    2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.

    Step 3: Add Vegetables

    1. Stir in the celery, carrots, and mushrooms, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 7-10 minutes.
    2. Add the bean sprouts and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

    Step 4: Combine with Sauces

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and black pepper.
    2. Pour the soup mixture into the skillet with the beef and vegetables, stirring to combine thoroughly.

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    Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

    1. Spread half of the chow mein noodles in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
    2. Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the noodles.
    3. Top with the remaining chow mein noodles.

    Step 6: Bake

    1. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
    2. Remove the foil and, if desired, sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese.
    3. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

    Step 7: Serve

    1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
    2. Serve hot, garnished with additional chow mein noodles for extra crunch, if desired.

    Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole

    • Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh, crisp vegetables to enhance the texture and flavor of the casserole.
    • High-Quality Soy Sauce: Opt for a high-quality soy sauce to bring out the best flavors in the dish.
    • Cheese Topping: While optional, a cheesy topping adds an extra layer of richness to the casserole.

    Serving Suggestions

    This Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also makes great leftovers, as the flavors meld together even more after sitting overnight.

    Conclusion

    The Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is a delightful, hearty dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the comforting qualities of a casserole and the savory, aromatic flavors of chow mein. It’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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