There’s a special kind of warmth that fills the room when a family gathers around a table to enjoy a homemade meal together. Ground Beef Chow Mein, traditionally known as “stir-fried noodles,” has been a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine for generations. This slow cooker version puts a comforting twist on the classic by slowly blending savory flavors over several hours, making the beef tender and allowing the sauce to fully infuse the vegetables. It’s the perfect dish for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends when you want a delicious meal waiting for you without a lot of last-minute prep. The mixture of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and flavorful sauce served over noodles creates a satisfying harmony of textures and tastes that everyone will love.
Pair this dish with a fresh salad tossed in sesame ginger dressing or steamed broccoli to add a crisp, nutritious balance. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of chili oil or Sriracha can add a spicy kick that elevates the flavors even more.
Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chow Mein
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups celery, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 can (5 ounces) water chestnuts, drained and sliced
- 8 ounces chow mein noodles or spaghetti, cooked and drained
Directions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked and crumbled, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and sliced celery to the slow cooker with the beef.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, black pepper, and beef broth. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables.
- Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours, until vegetables are tender and flavors are well combined.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and water chestnuts. Switch the heat to high to warm everything through while you cook the noodles.
- Serve the beef and vegetable mixture over the noodles, allowing the sauce to soak in and coat every bite.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes:
This dish delivers a good balance of protein from the beef and fiber-rich vegetables, providing a hearty and filling meal. The soy and hoisin sauces add savory depth but can contribute to sodium content, so those watching salt intake should consider low-sodium alternatives. The vegetables bring vitamins and crunch, supporting digestive health. To lighten the dish, you might choose leaner ground meats or substitute with plant-based proteins. Swapping noodles for vegetable noodles like zucchini spirals is a great option for low-carb diets.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Enjoyed this recipe? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below! Your experiences inspire others to try new dishes and build a community around great home cooking. Every comment helps spread the love for delicious, family-friendly meals.