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This hearty Chow Mein Casserole, also known as Minnesota Hotdish, is a comforting blend of ground beef, rice, creamy soups, and crunchy chow mein noodles. It has been a family favorite for years, especially on chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying. It’s easy to throw together, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a nostalgic taste that fills the house with cozy vibes.
I first made this recipe after discovering it tucked away in my motherinlaw’s collection, and now it’s a go-to meal for my family. My husband always requests it when he wants classic comfort food with a bit of a Midwestern twist.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: three pounds ideally lean for a flavorful yet healthy protein base
- Celery: one and a half cups chopped brings a mild crunch and freshness to balance richness
- Water: half a cup used to cook celery gently without losing texture
- Onions: two medium whole add sweetness and aroma when sautéed
- Cooked rice: two cups I prefer brown instant rice for nutty flavor and added fiber
- Cream of tomato soup: ten ounces condensed and adds tangy creaminess
- Cream of mushroom soup: ten ounces condensed for a savory depth that complements beef
- Dry crispy chow mein noodles: half a fourteen ounce package provides classic crunch and texture contrast
- Soy sauce: three tablespoons offers a salty umami punch to tie all flavors together
- Garnish options: include dry chow mein noodles for extra crunch, additional soy sauce for serving, and chopped green onions to freshen the dish
Instructions
- Prep the oven and dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit which is 175 degrees Celsius. Lightly spray a large casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray so the hotdish won’t stick and is easy to serve.
- Cook the celery:
- Place chopped celery in a microwave-safe bowl with half a cup of water. Cover and microwave for four to five minutes until celery is softened but still slightly crisp. Drain any remaining water thoroughly to avoid sogginess in the casserole.
- Brown the beef and onions:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onions until the meat is fully browned and onions are translucent. Break up the meat as it cooks for even browning and flavor development. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine the main ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl gently fold together the cooked celery, browned ground beef and onions, cream of tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, cooked rice, and half of the dry crispy chow mein noodles. Mixing in a separate bowl makes it easier to combine evenly without making a mess.
- Assemble in casserole dish:
- Pour the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly for uniform baking. Sprinkle the top with the remaining dry chow mein noodles and sprinkle three tablespoons of soy sauce evenly over the surface. This will infuse the casserole with its signature umami flavor.
- Bake uncovered:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for twenty minutes. This cooking time warms everything through, melds flavors, and crisps the noodle topping just right while keeping the inside creamy.
- Garnish and serve:
- Optionally garnish the casserole with additional crunchy chow mein noodles, a drizzle of soy sauce, and freshly chopped green onions before serving. These little touches brighten the dish and add a fresh crispness that balances the creamy richness.
This casserole is especially close to my heart because it was a recipe passed down from my motherinlaw, a true keeper of Midwestern tradition. The chow mein noodles are my favorite ingredient as they add a unique crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy and meaty base. It reminds me of family dinners where every bite felt like a warm hug.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within four days for best flavor and texture. This casserole freezes beautifully for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Ingredient substitutions
Ground beef can easily be swapped with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Rice choice is flexible, you can use white, wild, brown, jasmine, or even cauliflower rice for a lower carb option. Cream soups can be replaced with homemade alternatives or a mix of sour cream and broth if canned soups aren’t available.
Serving suggestions
Pair this hotdish with a fresh green salad or steamed mixed vegetables to add brightness and balance to the meal. A side of pickled cucumbers or coleslaw also complements the creamy and savory flavors well.
This chow mein casserole is a comforting make ahead hotdish perfect for family dinners. It freezes well and warms up beautifully for quick weeknight meals.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is a Minnesota hotdish?
It's a one-dish meal typically featuring a starch, protein, vegetables, and a creamy soup base baked together, popular in the Upper Midwest.
- → Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Yes, fresh celery and onions work well and can add a fresher texture when softened before mixing.
- → What proteins can be substituted in this dish?
Ground turkey, chicken, or shredded chicken can replace ground beef to lighten the dish.
- → How can I make the dish lighter?
Use lean meats, substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice, and opt for cream-of-chicken soup or homemade lighter alternatives.
- → What gives the topping its crunch?
Crispy chow mein noodles sprinkled on top and mixed into the dish add a satisfying crunch contrast to the creamy texture.