Grandma’s Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole – The Comfort Dish That Filled Every Table

Some recipes don’t come from cookbooks — they come from memory. From weeknight dinners when money was tight, mouths were many, and a single dish had to stretch far and satisfy everyone. Grandma’s Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole is one of those meals.

This isn’t takeout-style chow mein. It’s the classic American casserole version many families grew up with — savory ground beef, onions, celery, soy sauce, and that unmistakable crunch of crispy chow mein noodles baked right on top. It’s simple, filling, and deeply comforting.

It’s the kind of dish Grandma made when she wanted something warm, familiar, and guaranteed to be eaten without complaints. No frills. No leftovers.

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Grandma’s Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• 1 tsp sugar

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 cups crispy chow mein noodles

• Optional: sliced water chestnuts or peas

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Instructions

1) Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.

2) Brown the Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.

2. Add onion and celery; cook until softened.

3. Drain excess grease.

3) Mix the Filling

1. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, soy sauce, sugar, garlic powder, and pepper.

2. Add optional vegetables if using.

3. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until well combined.

4) Assemble

1. Pour the beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish.

2. Sprinkle crispy chow mein noodles evenly over the top.

5) Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly and the noodles are lightly golden.

6) Serve

Let rest a few minutes before serving.

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Why This Casserole Works

• Ground beef makes it hearty and filling

• Creamy sauce balances salty soy flavor

• Chow mein noodles add that signature crunch

• One dish feeds the whole family

It’s not fancy — it’s dependable. And that’s why it’s lasted.

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Tips for the Best Chow Mein Casserole

• Don’t overbake or the noodles can burn

• Add noodles in the last 10 minutes if you prefer extra crunch

• Use low-sodium soy sauce if sensitive to salt

• Let it rest briefly before serving so it sets

• Double the recipe for potlucks — it goes fast

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed rice or buttered bread

• Add a simple green salad for balance

• Sprinkle green onions on top for freshness

• A dash of hot sauce works surprisingly well

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FAQ – Grandma’s Ground Beef Chow Mein Casserole

Is this authentic chow mein?

No — this is the classic American casserole version many families grew up with.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble without noodles, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then add noodles before baking.

Can I freeze it?

Freeze the beef mixture only. Add noodles fresh when baking.

Can I use ground turkey?

Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter option.