American Chop Suey

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful, and downright easy meal to whip up on a busy weeknight, this American Chop Suey recipe is your new best friend. It combines simple pantry staples with hearty pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Easy to make and irresistibly satisfying, American Chop Suey has been a family favorite for generations – and now it’s your turn to discover why it’s so loved in kitchens everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: Every bite brings nostalgia with warm, familiar flavors that make you feel right at home.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short but taste is non-negotiable.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
• Kid-Approved: Simple flavors and pasta make it a hit for picky eaters and the whole family.
• One-Pot Magic: Minimal cleanup without sacrificing flavor or heartiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This American Chop Suey recipe is all about simplicity and quality ingredients. Each contributes to the dish’s delicious texture, balanced flavor, and classic appearance.

• Ground beef: Provides rich, savory flavor and hearty protein to the dish.
• Elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold sauce and create that classic American Chop Suey texture.
• Diced onions: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• Green bell pepper: Brings a fresh bite and subtle crunch for flavor contrast.
• Garlic cloves: Enhances aroma and adds savory depth.
• Canned tomato sauce: Forms the heart of the sauce, full of robust tomato flavor.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds texture and brightness to balance the sauce.
• Italian seasoning: Infuses the sauce with classic herb goodness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and adding richness.

Variations for American Chop Suey

This recipe serves as a fantastic base that’s easy to adapt to your preferences or pantry availability. Feel free to get creative with these variations to make it your own!

• Swap the beef for turkey or chicken: A leaner protein alternative that keeps the dish lighter.
• Make it vegetarian: Use mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles instead of meat.
• Add cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy, melty twist.
• Spice it up: Toss in red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a touch of heat.
• Fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped basil or parsley for vibrant flavor and color.

How to Make American Chop Suey

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the canned tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer on low heat for 10 minutes to merge flavors.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to coat all the noodles in the rich tomato sauce. Heat through for another couple of minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your easy American Chop Suey is ready! Plate it up and consider topping with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flair.

Pro Tips for Making American Chop Suey

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it slightly firm so it holds up well in the sauce.
• Use fresh garlic: It will add far more vibrant flavor than pre-minced options.
• Simmer the sauce gently: Low and slow focused cooking enhances the richness and depth.
• Drain excess fat: After browning beef, drain the fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
• Adjust seasoning last: Taste at the end to tweak salt and pepper perfectly.

How to Serve American Chop Suey

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of green and bright aroma that balances the tomato sauce’s richness. A light dusting of shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese also melts beautifully over the warm pasta.

Side Dishes

Pair your American Chop Suey with a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans for a refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make great complements, soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve American Chop Suey in a large family-style platter for sharing, or portion it into colorful bowls for a casual yet cozy presentation. For a fun twist, stuff it inside hollowed-out bell peppers and bake until tender.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for next-day meals.

Freezing

Let the dish cool completely before freezing in freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months — perfect for quick meals on busy nights.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to warm evenly without drying out.

FAQs

What is American Chop Suey?

American Chop Suey is a comforting pasta dish made with elbow macaroni, ground beef, tomato sauce, and a blend of vegetables and seasonings, popular as an easy family meal.

Can I make American Chop Suey vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat substitutes to keep it hearty and flavorful without meat.

Is American Chop Suey spicy?

Traditional American Chop Suey is mild, but you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes or hot sauce according to your taste.

What pasta works best for American Chop Suey?

Elbow macaroni is classic and ideal for this dish since its shape holds the sauce well, but small pasta shapes like shells or rotini also work beautifully.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it in advance, refrigerate, or freeze leftovers, making American Chop Suey a great meal prep option that reheats wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that’s warm, hearty, and comes together in a snap, don’t hesitate to try this American Chop Suey recipe tonight. Its simple ingredients and big flavors make it a definite winner for casual dinners or feeding a crowd. Give it a whirl, savor every bite, and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation!

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