This Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is a cozy dish that combines tasty beef with crisp veggies and soft noodles, all baked together in one pan. It’s a comforting meal that the whole family will love!
I always enjoy how easy it is to throw this together. Just mix, layer, and bake! Plus, it makes amazing leftovers for lunch—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing protein and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For vegetarian alternatives, try lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or crumbled tofu.
Onion and Garlic: Sweet onions add a great base flavor. You could swap them for shallots for a milder taste. Garlic powder can substitute for fresh garlic in a pinch, but I find fresh really enhances the dish.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give a nice crunch, but feel free to use frozen peas and carrots for convenience. They add color and sweetness. If you want something different, try bell peppers or broccoli instead!
Chow Mein Noodles: These noodles create a great texture. If you can’t find them, spaghetti or rice noodles can be a suitable substitute. Just cook them according to package instructions before layering in the dish.
Beef Broth: This adds depth. If you prefer a lighter option, chicken or vegetable broth is a good substitute. Homemade broth offers the best flavor, but store-bought works just fine.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Cooking the Beef?
When cooking ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces ensures even cooking and flavor distribution. Here’s how to do it well:
- Always preheat your pan with oil before adding the beef. This helps it brown nicely.
- Let the beef cook without moving it too much for the first few minutes. This allows it to form a nice crust for added flavor.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up any large clumps as it cooks, and season with salt and pepper early on for better flavor absorption.
With these tips, your Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole will be packed with delicious flavors and great texture!
How to Make Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups green beans, chopped (or frozen peas and carrots mix)
- 2 cups chow mein noodles
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 40-45 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time sautéing everything and then let it bake while you relax. It’s a comforting dish that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Sauté:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until the onion is translucent and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s nice and crumbly!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the chopped green beans (or your frozen peas and carrots mix). Cook this mixture for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the veggies are tender but still bright and colorful.
4. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time for the flavor! Stir in the beef broth, soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, minced ginger, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting all the flavors meld together for a couple of minutes.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Grab a large casserole dish and layer the chow mein noodles evenly across the bottom. Then, pour the hearty beef and vegetable mixture over the noodles, spreading it out evenly. It’s looking great already!
6. Bake:
Cover your casserole dish with aluminum foil to keep it moist and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Once that time is up, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This will give the top a delicious, crispy edge. Yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When the casserole is done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the green beans for any other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or even a frozen stir-fry mix. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for denser veggies to ensure they’re tender before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a substitution, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well. Just cook them until they’re fully browned, and keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on your chosen protein.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Assemble it up to the baking point, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
