First off, thank you so much for stopping by — it makes my day to know you’re here looking for recipes that bring people together! If you’re after a dish that’s hearty, nostalgic, and guaranteed to vanish at any potluck, this Church Supper Hot Dish is exactly what you need. With savory ground beef, tender vegetables, creamy mushroom soup, gooey cheese, and that irresistible crunchy chow mein noodle topping — it’s simple, satisfying, and so timeless.
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Why You’ll Love This Hot Dish
This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. You’ll love it because it’s:
- Hearty & filling: A complete meal in one dish.
- Nostalgic: Classic Midwest potluck vibes at their best.
- Easy to prep: Simple ingredients and quick steps.
- Crunchy on top: That layer of chow mein noodles is everything!
What Does It Taste Like?
Every forkful is creamy, savory, and satisfying — tender beef, soft potatoes, sweet carrots, fresh celery, and a layer of melted cheddar mingled with the unmistakable crunch of those salty chow mein noodles. It’s cozy, comforting, and exactly what you want when you crave good old-fashioned potluck food.
Why This Recipe Always Works
- Uses everyday pantry staples.
- Feeds a hungry crowd without breaking the bank.
- Comes together quickly and bakes up perfectly golden.
- You can easily prep it ahead and bake when ready.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Hearty, savory base |
| Potatoes (peeled & sliced) | 2 cups | Bulk and comforting texture |
| Celery (finely chopped) | 2 cups | Fresh crunch |
| Carrots (finely chopped) | ½ cup | Natural sweetness |
| Green bell pepper (finely chopped) | ¼ cup | Color and subtle zing |
| Onion (finely chopped) | ¼ cup | Aromatic flavor |
| Butter or margarine | 2 tbsp | For sautéing & richness |
| Water | 1 cup | Helps soften veggies |
| Condensed cream of mushroom soup | 2 cans (10.75 oz each) | Creamy, savory sauce |
| Chow mein noodles | 1 can (5 oz) | Crispy, salty crunch |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Melty, cheesy finish |
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 2-quart baking dish
- Foil for covering
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Possible Additions & Swaps
- Add corn, peas, or green beans for extra veggies.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Try a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
- Swap cream of mushroom for cream of celery if you prefer.
How to Make Church Supper Hot Dish
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
2️⃣ Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no pink remains. Drain off excess grease.
3️⃣ Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add potatoes, celery, carrots, green pepper, and onions. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4️⃣ Simmer
Add 1 cup of water, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
5️⃣ Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, sautéed veggies (with the liquid), and both cans of cream of mushroom soup. Stir until well mixed.
6️⃣ Layer the Casserole
Spread half the chow mein noodles on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over them and spread evenly.
7️⃣ Bake Covered
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8️⃣ Add Cheese & Crunch
Remove the foil. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and the remaining chow mein noodles on top. Bake uncovered for another 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9️⃣ Rest & Serve
Let the hot dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. It helps it set up perfectly.
What to Serve With It
- A crisp green salad with ranch or vinaigrette.
- Warm dinner rolls with butter.
- A side of steamed green beans or peas.
- Finish with a light dessert like lemon bars or fruit salad.
Tips for Hot Dish Success
- Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds for best texture — they hold up better.
- Don’t skip the chow mein noodles! They make the dish.
- Make it ahead: Assemble up to a day ahead and keep covered in the fridge — add 5–10 minutes extra baking time if cold.
- Double it up: Feeding a big crowd? Easily double and bake in a larger dish.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The topping will soften but it’s still delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze before baking for best results. Wrap tightly and bake from frozen, adding about 15–20 extra minutes.
Can I use fresh mushrooms?
Absolutely! Add them with the veggies when sautéing.
What can I use instead of chow mein noodles?
Try crispy fried onions or even crushed butter crackers — but the noodles give that classic potluck crunch!
Final Thoughts: Bring This Classic to Your Table Tonight!
Creamy, savory, and topped with that signature crunch — this Church Supper Hot Dish is the ultimate comforting casserole. It’s the kind of recipe that makes any meal feel like a cozy family gathering, whether you’re serving it at a Sunday potluck or a simple weeknight dinner.
If you try it, share it! Leave a review, pin it, or tag me on Pinterest — I love seeing your comforting creations.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving, 1 of 6)
Calories: ~420 | Carbs: 32g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 24g
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