Chinese Hamburger Casserole 🥘

Overview:

This Chinese Hamburger Casserole recipe is a cherished gem from over 30 years ago, originating from a church cookbook. It’s a delightful blend of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice and paired with your favorite vegetables, it’s a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 247.4 per serving
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (based on 17 reviews)

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 cup water
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup onions, chopped
2 cups white rice
1/2 cup chow mein noodles

Instructions:

Brown the Meat:
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. This step adds a rich flavor base to the casserole.
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Combine Ingredients:
Once the beef is browned, add in the remaining ingredients except for the noodles. Pour in the water, soy sauce, fresh mushrooms, mushrooms, celery, onions, and white rice. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring that the flavors meld together beautifully.
Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Transfer the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
Bake Covered:
Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil to lock in the moisture and flavors. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together and develop depth of flavor.
Uncover and Bake:
After 30 minutes, remove the cover from the casserole dish and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This step allows the top to develop a golden crust while the flavors continue to intensify.
Add Chow Mein Noodles:
Sprinkle the chow mein noodles evenly over the top of the casserole. This adds a delightful crunch and texture to the dish, elevating it to new heights of deliciousness.
Final Bake:
Return the uncovered casserole dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the noodles to crisp up and the flavors to meld together even further.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once fully baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon generous portions onto plates, serving it alongside cooked rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 247.4
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4.5g
Cholesterol: 41.5mg
Sodium: 824.5mg
Carbohydrates: 18.1g
Fiber: 1.1g
Sugar: 2.4g
Protein: 13.9g

Tips and Variations:

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for added color and nutrition.
For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
To make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it according to the instructions when ready to serve.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Experiment with different types of noodles for a fun twist. Ramen noodles or thin spaghetti would also work well in this recipe.

This Chinese Hamburger Casserole is a timeless classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its simple preparation and hearty flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with loved ones. Give it a try and savor the comforting taste of this beloved dish! 🍲✨