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Grandma's Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole

A nostalgic, creamy beef casserole loaded with vegetables, savory soy flavor, and crunchy chow mein noodles — a Midwest comfort classic.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Vintage
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cups celery chopped
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 0.75 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 can (8 oz) sliced water chestnuts drained
  • 1 cup cooked rice optional
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
  • 2 cups chow mein noodles divided
  • salt and pepper
  • green onions or parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat. Add onion and celery and cook until soft.
  3. Stir in soups, milk, soy sauce, water chestnuts, and rice. Season to taste.
  4. Fold in 1 cup chow mein noodles and pour mixture into baking dish.
  5. Top with cheese and remaining noodles. Bake 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
  6. Garnish with green onions or parsley before serving.

Notes

Add rice for a heartier texture. For extra crunch, reserve chow mein noodles until just before serving.