Grandma’s Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole

 

This classic Midwestern casserole recipe comes straight from my grandma’s kitchen in Wisconsin. It was always one of my most anticipated meals whenever we went to visit her growing up.

Grandma’s ground beef chow mein casserole, sometimes called chop suey casserole, combines tender ground beef and crisp veggies with a creamy soup base and fluffy rice. Baked until hot and bubbly, it’s finished with crispy chow mein noodles for the perfect crunchy topping.

I love the comforting blend of flavors and textures in this dish. The sautéed beef and onions bring hearty savoriness, diced celery and water chestnuts add a welcome crunch, and the combination of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups makes a luscious, velvety sauce.

This satisfying all-in-one meal is a cinch to throw together and perfect for feeding a crowd. The best part is enjoying it fresh from the oven, steaming hot, with that crispy chow mein topping! I hope this childhood favorite becomes your new go-to comfort food casserole.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef, browned and drained

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 cup celery, chopped

• 1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 1½ cups water

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 (5 oz) can chow mein noodles

• Cooking spray or oil, for greasing

Instructions

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

2. Mix casserole base in a large bowl: combine browned beef, both soups, onion, celery, water chestnuts, uncooked rice, water, and soy sauce until well blended.

3. Transfer to baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.

4. Bake covered for 1 hour 20 minutes, or until rice is tender and the mixture is bubbling.

5. Remove foil and sprinkle chow mein noodles evenly over the top.

6. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until noodles are lightly toasted.

7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, sauté the onion and celery with the ground beef before mixing.

• If you prefer a saucier texture, add an extra ¼ cup of water.

• Leftovers store well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition per serving (approx.):
Calories: 376kcal

This cozy, nostalgic casserole is sure to warm you up and bring a smile to the table. Enjoy!