Chow Mein Minnesota Hotdish (Printer-Friendly)

Hearty hotdish with ground beef, rice, celery, creamy soups, and crunchy chow mein noodles, perfect for weeknight dinners.

# What You'll Need:

→ Protein

01 - 3 lbs lean ground beef

→ Vegetables

02 - 1.5 cups celery, chopped (about 3-4 stalks)
03 - 2 medium onions, chopped

→ Staple

04 - 2 cups cooked brown instant rice

→ Canned Soups

05 - 10 oz condensed cream of tomato soup
06 - 10 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup

→ Toppings & Condiments

07 - ½ (14 oz) package dry crispy chow mein noodles
08 - 3 tablespoons soy sauce

→ Garnish (optional)

09 - Additional dry crispy chow mein noodles
10 - Extra soy sauce
11 - Chopped green onions

→ Liquid

12 - ½ cup water

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a large 3-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
02 - Combine chopped celery and ½ cup water in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave for 4 to 5 minutes until tender. Drain any remaining water.
03 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and chopped onions until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess fat if necessary.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked beef and onions, cooked celery, tomato soup, mushroom soup, cooked rice, and dry chow mein noodles. Stir thoroughly to combine.
05 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and evenly sprinkle with soy sauce.
06 - Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until heated through.
07 - Remove from oven and garnish with additional crispy chow mein noodles, chopped green onions, and extra soy sauce if desired. Serve warm.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Adding chow mein noodles both before and after baking creates a pleasing combination of soft and crunchy textures.
02 - For best flavor, add extra soy sauce after baking and serve it on the side.
03 - Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.