American Chop Suey Recipe (The Greatest Comfort Food)

American chop suey is a hearty, comforting dish that has graced dinner tables across America for generations. Its mix of seasoned ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato sauce makes it an irresistible choice for family meals. But it’s not just its taste that makes it popular—it’s how easy it is to whip up with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. For busy families or anyone craving a filling, flavorful pasta dish, the American chop suey recipe offers a perfect balance of convenience and delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this American chop suey recipe is ready in just 35 minutes.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients, most of which you may already have in your pantry.
• Family Favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser with comforting flavors that appeal to all ages.
• Versatile: Great for leftover meal prep and can be adjusted to fit different tastes.
• Balanced Nutrition: Contains a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber for a wholesome meal.

Health Benefits of Ground Beef

Ground beef is the main ingredient in American chop suey, and when used in moderation, it offers a range of nutritional benefits:

• High in Protein: Essential for muscle repair, immune function, and energy.
• Rich in Iron: Vital for oxygen transport in the blood, supporting energy levels and brain health.
• B Vitamins: Particularly rich in B12, which is crucial for brain health and DNA synthesis.
• Zinc Boost: Aids immune health and wound healing.

For a lower-fat option, consider using lean ground beef or substituting half of the beef with mushrooms to maintain the texture without sacrificing protein. For more Health benefits, check out this article from Healthline.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Ground Beef: Classic in American chop suey, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Elbow Macaroni: The iconic pasta choice, though any short pasta like rotini or penne will work well.
• Crushed Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: Provide a rich tomato base. Swap with diced tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds depth with a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme. If fresh herbs are available, feel free to add them.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the savory flavor; vegetable broth or water with bouillon can be used as an alternative.

How to Make American Chop Suey (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

To begin, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. As it browns, add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cooking the beef until fully browned gives a base layer of flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

To the pan, add the chopped garlic, green bell pepper, and onion. The bell peppers should be soft, and the onions should be clear after 3–4 minutes of sautéing. The combination of beef and vegetables sets up a savory, aromatic base.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Add the beef stock, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over high heat.

Step 4: Simmer for Depth of Flavor

Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes. This simmering step allows the flavors to intensify and the sauce to thicken slightly, ensuring a rich texture that coats the pasta perfectly.

Step 5: Combine with Cooked Pasta

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the sauce. Let it cook together for another 3-5 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the American chop suey to plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, if desired, for added color and taste.

Expert Tips for Success

• Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the pasta al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. You can add a dash more Italian seasoning or salt based on preference.
• Cook the Sauce Slowly: The rich tomato tastes are enhanced when the sauce is allowed to simmer.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with crumbled tofu or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

• Spicy Twist: For some added kick, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

• Cheesy Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle mozzarella or cheddar on top, and bake until bubbly.

• Add Veggies: Enhance the dish by adding zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a nutritional boost.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Before putting the American chop suey in an airtight container, allow it to cool fully. You may keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place it in freezer-safe containers, where it will stay well for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through for even heating.

Serving Suggestions

American chop suey is satisfying on its own but pairs well with several sides for a complete meal:

• Side Salad: The dish’s richness is counterbalanced with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Color and nutrients may be added with a simple side of carrots, broccoli, or green beans.

American Chop Suey

Recipe by Chef SarahCourse: LunchCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

A quick, hearty American chop suey recipe made with ground beef, macaroni, and a zesty tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni prepared as directed on the packet

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned after adding the ground meat. Drain excess fat.
• Sauté the Vegetables: In the skillet, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add Sauce Ingredients: Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes—season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Simmer the Sauce: Heat the mixture until it simmers. Cook, stirring periodically, until the sauce thickens, approximately 10 minutes.
• Combine with Pasta: Stir in the cooked macaroni and allow the flavors to meld for another 3-5 minutes on low heat.
• Serve and Garnish: Spoon onto plates, garnish with parsley, and enjoy!

Notes

• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hotter variation.
• For a milder flavor, use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

More Recipes to Try

• 30-Minute Irresistible Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Avocado-Lime Slaw
• Mouth-Watering Grilled Chicken Wraps: Your Go-To Easy Meal
• Mississippi Chicken Recipe: A Flavor-Packed, Effortless Dinner You’ll Love

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

This American chop suey recipe is a wonderful go-to for busy nights when you crave something hearty and comforting. Its savory combination of ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce creates an irresistible meal that’s both family-friendly and easy to make. With its blend of traditional flavors and simple preparation, this dish will soon become a household staple. You will enjoy every mouthful if you give it a try!