Description
This vintage chow mein casserole is a fusion of American comfort food and Asian-inspired flavor. Loaded with ground beef, crunchy noodles, veggies, and a savory sauce, it’s a satisfying one-dish wonder straight from Grandma’s kitchen—perfect for weeknights or potlucks.
Who Is This Recipe For?
Ideal for:
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Families looking for a hearty, budget-friendly meal
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Fans of retro and nostalgic dishes
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Home cooks who love make-ahead casseroles
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Picky eaters (yes, even the kids love this one!)
⭐ Why It’s Great
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One-pan convenience
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A fun twist on traditional casseroles
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Packed with textures—soft, crunchy, and saucy
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Can be made ahead and reheated
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Comforting and crowd-pleasing
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large skillet
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Mixing spoon or spatula
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Small bowl (for topping)
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Oven
Ingredients
Filling:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 (6 oz) can crispy chow mein noodles
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1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, chopped and drained
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1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
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¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp sesame oil
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1 tsp grated ginger (fresh or ground)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
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1 cup crushed chow mein noodles (plus more for garnish)
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2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
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Preheat oven: 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
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Brown beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Add aromatics: Stir in onion and garlic; sauté 3–4 minutes.
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Build sauce: Add soy sauce, Worcestershire, brown sugar, sesame oil, and ginger. Stir to combine.
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Combine: Fold in noodles, water chestnuts, and veggies. Spread into baking dish.
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Topping: Toss crushed noodles with melted butter; sprinkle over casserole.
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Bake: Bake 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Rest & garnish: Cool 5 minutes. Garnish with extra noodles or green onions.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months
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Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F until heated through
❓ FAQ
Can I use fresh veggies instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just sauté them slightly first to soften.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes—assemble it up to a day ahead and bake when ready.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is old-school comfort with a flavorful twist. It’s rich, savory, and packed with nostalgic charm—perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a hungry crowd with ease.
