Whoa, had no idea I could make my favorite takeout in casserole form! What a life hack!
Ground beef chow mein casserole is a mouthwatering fusion of hearty ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces, all baked to perfection. This crowd-pleasing dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among families and dinner guests alike. In this article, we’ll explore a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious meal, along with helpful tips and insights to elevate your culinary experience.
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Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Ginger | 1 tablespoon |
| Celery | 1 cup |
| Carrots | 1 cup |
| Cabbage | 3 cups |
| Mushrooms | 8 ounces |
| Chow Mein noodles | 8 ounces |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Cheddar cheese (optional) | 1 cup |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
| Green onions or chives | for garnish |
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create a delectable ground beef chow mein casserole:
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- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set it aside while you prepare the ingredients.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions become translucent, infusing the beef with aromatic flavors.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Add the chopped celery and julienne carrots to the skillet, cooking until they start to soften. Then, incorporate the thinly sliced cabbage and mushrooms, cooking until all the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and cornstarch to create a flavorful sauce. Pour this sauce over the cooked beef and vegetables, stirring well to combine.
- Combine with Noodles: Gently toss the cooked Chow Mein noodles into the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated and combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: If desired, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for an extra layer of richness and flavor.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and begins to brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the casserole with chopped green onions or chives before serving, adding a fresh burst of flavor and color.
