Name: American Chop Suey
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 0.5 cup green bell pepper, chopped; 0.5 cup celery, chopped; 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 ounce); 0.5 cup water; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions

Oh, American Chop Suey! Just saying the name brings back a wave of warm fuzzy memories. This isn’t just a meal to me; it’s also an experience. Is it the taste of rainy Saturday afternoons at my Grandma Millie’s house, the smell of it simmering? On her stove filling every corner. Is it the kind of comfort food that feels like a hug? I need something hearty, delicious, and surprisingly easy. If you’ve ever had a good goulash or swiss pie, you are going to fall head over heels for it. What are the best American Chop Sueys? Is this a good, stick-to-your-ribs food? Is it truly special? I remember the first time I tried to recreate it for my own family. My youngest son, Leo, took one bite and his eyes lit up. I know he’s picky, but I don’t know why. I knew I had it! What is a lifesaver on busy weeknights? The kids and the grown-ups devour without a second thought. What is your favorite way to bring home cooked magic to your table?

What is American Chop Suey?

What is American Chop Suey? Is it funny, because the name can be a little misleading? Is it really a stir-fried, soy sauce-based dish? Traditional Chinese cuisine. What’s a one-pot American classic? What is a savory mixture of ground meat (usually beef, but I’ll get into variations later on)? ), tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce. What’s all simmered together until the flavors meld into something truly comforting and delicious. Is it the kind of meal that feels both familiar and incredibly satisfying, making it a beloved dish? Is there a Isn’t it a homey scent that makes you feel instantly at ease? Is it adaptable to whatever you have on hand? Is it a true comfort food?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Why am I obsessed with American Chop Suey? Just know you will be too! What is a break down?

Flavor Explosion:What is a good pasta dish? What is the perfect combination of Ground Beef, sweet tomatoes, onions and peppers? What is depth of flavor that’s just incredible? What is the secret, for me, is letting it simmer just long enough for all those tastes to marry. It’s rich, slightly tangy, and perfectly seasoned. Is it the kind of flavor that makes you want to go back for another spoonful?

Ridiculously simpleI know some recipes sound complicated, but this one is genuinely easy. What is the best way to dump everything into a single pot and let it do its magic? No fancy cooking technique required, and the steps are so straightforward, even a beginner cook can do it. What is one of those recipes I can whip up on a Tuesday night without feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Is it a lifesaver?

Budget Friendly BrillianceWhat is a wallet? The ingredients for American Chop Suey are generally super affordable and readily available at any grocery store. What are some pantry staples that won’t break the bank? Ground Beef, pasta, canned tomatoes. What is the best way to get good quality, healthy food at a very reasonable price? What a huge win in my book, especially when feeding my family.

Super Versatile:I adore it the classic way, but this recipe is also a fantastic canvas for your own creativity. What is the best way to substitute meat for veggies? Is it necessary to put cheese on top before serving? What are some good ideas for a weeknight dinner? What is the best recipe for a potluck? I’ve even made a vegetarian version using plant-based crumbles that was surprisingly good! What I love the most is that it’s so forgiving. Even if you don’t have every single spice, it still turns out wonderfully.

How do I make American Chop Suey?

Quick Overview

What makes American Chop Suey so good? What is the best way to brown ground meat, then sauté some aromatics, before adding your pasta and a delicious sauce. What is tomato sauce? Everything simmers together in one pot, creating an unbelievably flavorful and comforting meal. Is it the ultimate dump-and-stir situation that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss? Is this the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius without breaking the bank?

Ingredients

What do you need to gather for this recipe? I always try to buy good quality ingredients because I think it really makes a difference, but I never know what to do. Is this dish forgiving?

For the Main Dish:
1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil you prefer) – 1 teaspoon.
Is 1 pound ground beef good for flavor?
1 medium onion, finely chopped.
What is a green bell pepper, finely chopped?
2 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you’re a garlic lover like me)
1 can crushed tomatoes (good quality makes a difference here)?
How many can you make tomato sauce?
1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth, or even water in a pinch)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (this is a must for depth!)
1 teaspoon dried oregano per 1 cup.
1/2 teaspoon dried basil. What is the best way to
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked (or any small pasta shape that cooks quickly)

For Serving (Optional but Recommended):
Shredded cheddar cheese is a
Fresh parsley, chopped.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

I like my Dutch oven because it heats so evenly. I use a large pot. Place it over medium-high heat. Add your olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s ready for the meat.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

How do you break up ground beef with a spoon or spatula? Cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned all over. It usually takes about 5-7 minutes to get a good sear on it. Once it’s browned, drain off any excess grease. I usually tilt the pot carefully and spoon it out. This step is key for flavor!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

If your pot is getting too hot, remove the browned beef from the heat. Now, push the beef to one side of the pot. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) to the empty side of the pot. Stir well. Cook, stirring them, until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Oh, that smell! Is it the start of something wonderful?

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Stir the onions, peppers, and garlic into the browned beef. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and basil. Season generously with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 15 minutes. At least 15 minutes. What are some of the best flavors to meld together?

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Now for the pasta! Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering sauce. Make sure all the pasta is submerged in the liquid. If it looks dry, you can add a splash of broth or water. Cover the pot again, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Is there a way to absorb liquid? Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Check and Adjust

Once the pasta is cooked, give everything a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Does it need more Worcestershire sauce? This is your moment to make it perfect for your palate. What should I do if I want to make a thick sauce for my pasta?

Step 7: Serve It Up!

What is the best way to serve American Chop Suey? I love topping my pasta with shredded cheddar cheese. It melts in my mouth. How do I add a bit of fresh parsley to my salad? What is comfort in a bowl?

What should I serve it with?

American Chop Suey is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides that really round out the meal. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

For a Hearty Dinner: This is pretty much a complete meal in itself, but sometimes I like to serve it with a simple side salad. A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chop suey perfectly. We also love Garlic Bread or crusty bread for dipping up any leftover sauce – my kids especially go wild for this!

For a Casual Lunch: Leftovers are amazing! I often pack it into a thermos for my husband’s lunch, or just heat it up for a quick and satisfying lunch at home. It’s surprisingly good cold, too, though I usually prefer it warm.

As Part of a Buffet: If I’m making a bigger spread, I’ll serve this alongside other comfort food classics like meatloaf or baked beans. It’s always a crowd-pleaser and adds that nostalgic touch.

My family traditions often involve having this on a cold, blustery day. We’ll light a fire, put on a movie, and dig into big bowls of American Chop Suey. It just makes everything feel cozy and right. I’ve also served it at potlucks, and it’s always one of the first dishes to disappear. People always ask me for the recipe!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your American Chop Suey

I’ve made this American Chop Suey countless times, and over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. I want to share them with you so you can achieve chop suey perfection right from the start!

Don’t Skip Browning the Beef: Seriously, this is crucial. Browning the beef well, getting those little crispy bits, adds so much depth of flavor. Don’t be tempted to just toss it all in. Take the extra few minutes to drain the fat and get that nice sear. It makes all the difference.

Finely Chop Your Veggies: For the onions and bell peppers, I always go for a fine chop. This helps them integrate more smoothly into the sauce, and my kids are less likely to pick them out if they’re tiny! A food processor can be your friend here if you’re in a hurry.

Quality Tomatoes Matter: Since tomatoes are the base of the sauce, using good quality crushed tomatoes can really shine through. I find that brands that have a richer, sweeter tomato flavor make the end result that much better. It’s a small thing, but worth noting.

The Power of Worcestershire: This is my secret ingredient for umami and depth. Just a tablespoon or two adds this wonderful savory note that you can’t quite place but know is essential. Don’t skip it!

Pasta Cooking Time: Since the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, keep an eye on it. You want it tender but not mushy. Stirring it periodically prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures it cooks evenly. If the sauce seems too thick as it simmers, just add a little more broth or water.

Seasoning is Key: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end! Pasta absorbs a lot of salt, so don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. A little extra pinch can really bring all the flavors together.

Ingredient Swaps: While ground beef is traditional, I’ve made this with ground turkey or even ground chicken, and it’s still delicious, just a slightly lighter flavor. For a vegetarian option, crumbled plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully. You can also add other vegetables like chopped carrots or celery when you sauté the onions, or stir in some frozen peas or corn in the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients.

The Cheese Topping: While totally optional, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or even a dollop of sour cream on top just before serving adds an extra layer of creamy goodness that my family absolutely adores. It’s that finishing touch that makes it extra special.

Storing and Reheating Tips

One of the best things about American Chop Suey is how well it stores and reheats. It’s seriously one of my favorite leftovers, and sometimes I even think it tastes better the next day!

Room Temperature Storage: It’s best to store American Chop Suey once it has cooled down a bit. You don’t want to leave it out at room temperature for too long, typically no more than two hours, especially if your kitchen tends to be warm. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container.

Refrigerator Storage: Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, American Chop Suey will stay fresh and delicious for about 3-4 days. I usually put it into individual portion containers if I know I’ll be taking it for lunches, or a larger container if it’s for family meals. It holds its texture really well.

Freezer Instructions: If you want to make a big batch and freeze some for later, this is definitely freezer-friendly! Let the chop suey cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. It can stay frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to use it, I recommend thawing it overnight in the refrigerator. It can also be reheated directly from frozen, but it will take longer.

Reheating: For reheating, the stovetop is my preferred method. Gently warm it in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might need to add a tablespoon or two of water or broth if it seems a little thick. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish. Just cover it loosely and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. If you froze it, make sure to thaw it first for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make this American Chop Suey gluten-free, you’ll need to swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta. Rice, corn, or lentil-based pastas work well. Cook them according to package directions and then stir them into the sauce. You might find that gluten-free pasta absorbs liquid a bit differently, so you may need to add a touch more liquid during the simmering process. The flavor will still be fantastic!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Wait, zucchini? Oh, I think there might be a little mix-up with another recipe! This American Chop Suey doesn’t traditionally call for zucchini. If you were thinking of adding it, definitely don’t feel the need to peel it – the skin adds fiber and color. Just make sure to chop it finely and sauté it along with the onions and peppers.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

That’s a fun idea! While I haven’t tried it myself, I imagine you could adapt this into a casserole or even savory muffins. You’d likely want to cook the pasta slightly less to avoid it getting too soft when baked. You might also need to thicken the sauce a bit more, perhaps by reducing it longer or adding a touch of cornstarch slurry. You’d probably bake them in a muffin tin until set and lightly browned. Let me know if you give it a try!

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

The sweetness in this dish primarily comes from the tomatoes and the optional bell pepper. If you prefer it sweeter, you can use a sweeter brand of crushed tomatoes, or add a teaspoon of sugar or a touch of honey to the sauce. Conversely, if you want it less sweet, you can use diced tomatoes with their juice, or even reduce the amount of crushed tomatoes slightly and add more tomato sauce.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

This American Chop Suey doesn’t typically use a glaze; it’s more of a saucy pasta dish. However, if you’re looking for a topping similar to a glaze, you could try a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or even a drizzle of ketchup for a tangy kick. Fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely freshness and color, which I often use.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my absolute favorite American Chop Suey! It’s a dish that’s so much more than just the sum of its ingredients; it’s a bowl of pure comfort, packed with flavor and memories. I truly believe this is a recipe that everyone should have in their repertoire. It’s reliable, delicious, and brings so much joy to the table, especially on those days when you just need something familiar and comforting. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most rewarding. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that same cozy feeling I get every time I make it. If you love this classic comfort food, you might also enjoy my {{% link to another recipe, e.g., “Shepherd’s Pie” %}} or {{% link to another recipe, e.g., “Beef Stew” %}}. Let me know in the comments below how yours turns out, and if you have any special family twists you like to add! Happy cooking, everyone!