Chow Mein Minnesota Hotdish

This hearty Chow Mein Casserole, also called Minnesota Hotdish, blends ground beef, rice, and soups with crunchy chow mein noodles for a comforting allinone meal. It’s a true comfort food classic that’s easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

I first made this recipe after discovering it was a beloved dish from my mother in law’s collection, and it quickly became a family favorite. My husband especially looks forward to it after a long day.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: three pounds lean ground beef is best for balanced flavor and less fat
• Celery: one and a half cups chopped celery adds a subtle crunch and a fresh vegetable note
• Water: half a cup used to soften the celery before mixing in
• Onions: two whole medium onions bring sweetness and depth when browned
• Rice: two cups cooked rice brown instant rice adds heartiness and fiber
• Cream of tomato soup: ten ounce can adds warmth and a mild tomato flavor
• Cream of mushroom soup: ten ounce can brings creamy earthiness to the casserole
• Dry chow mein noodles: half of a 14 ounce package adds crispiness inside the casserole and as topping
• Soy sauce: three tablespoons enhances the umami and salty notes of the dish
• Garnishes: dry chow mein noodles for extra crunch green onions chopped for freshness extra soy sauce if you desire

Instructions

Prepare the oven and dish:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Spray a large three quart casserole dish well with non stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

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 the celery softens. Drain any leftover water completely.

Brown the beef and onions:

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds the savory base of your casserole.

Mix everything together:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked celery, tomato soup, mushroom soup, cooked rice, beef and onion mixture, and half the package of dry chow mein noodles. Stir well to distribute all the ingredients evenly.

Assemble the casserole:

Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the soy sauce on top to enhance the layers of flavor while it bakes.

Bake the casserole:

Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This bakes the mixture through and melds the flavors together.

Garnish and serve:

Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with extra crispy dry chow mein noodles, chopped green onions, and additional soy sauce if you like. The contrast between soft and crunchy noodles makes the dish special.

I love the addition of celery because it adds a slight crunch and freshness that cuts through the richness of the soups and beef. One of my favorite moments was making this for my family on a snowy winter evening. The warm, savory aroma filled the house and gave everyone that cozy comfort only a great casserole can provide.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave without losing texture. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to three months. Make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor. Use white rice, wild rice, or even cauliflower rice for different textures or to reduce carbs. Cream of chicken soup works well in place of the mushroom or tomato soups if you prefer.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a side of steamed or roasted mixed vegetables to add color and fiber. A simple green salad brightens the meal and cuts the richness. For a heartier experience, potatoes or a crusty bread are also great companions.

This casserole brings comfort and crunch in every bite. It’s perfect for family dinners and makes great leftovers.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What ingredients create the distinct texture?

The combination of soft cooked rice and crunchy chow mein noodles—both in the mix and as garnish—gives a unique texture blend.

→ Can fresh vegetables replace canned ones?

Yes, fresh celery, onions, and additional veggies like mushrooms or bean sprouts can be used for a fresher taste and texture.

→ How to lighten this hearty dish?

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, substitute cauliflower rice, and choose lighter cream soups or homemade substitutes.

→ What is the role of soy sauce in this dish?

Soy sauce adds a savory, umami depth and can be mixed in before baking or served on the side for extra flavor.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.