American Chop Suey Recipe: American Chop Suey is a beloved comfort food dish in many households, particularly in New England. Despite its name, this hearty meal has no direct connection to Chinese cuisine. It’s a flavorful combination of macaroni pasta, ground meat (often beef), vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Loved for its simplicity, this one-pot wonder is a perfect family meal that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
So, if you’re looking to whip up a comforting and filling dish, let’s dive into how you can make the perfect American Chop Suey at home.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make American Chop Suey:
Core Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
- Grated parmesan cheese for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Ingredient Notes:
- Pasta: While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can experiment with other types like penne or rotini.
- Meat Options: Swap out ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground alternatives.
- Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes if preferred, though canned tomatoes offer convenience and consistent flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta, a skillet or large saucepan for the sauce, and a colander for draining the pasta.
- Dice the onions and bell peppers.
- Mince the garlic.
- Measure out the spices and have your ingredients within reach to streamline the cooking process.
2. Cooking the Pasta
Cooking the pasta properly is key to a good texture in American Chop Suey.
- Bring water to a boil: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Cook the pasta: Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain the pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if necessary.
3. Preparing the Sauce Base
The sauce is what gives American Chop Suey its signature flavor.
- Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly browned.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Adding Ground Meat
Ground beef adds richness and depth to the dish.
- Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks.
- Season: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning over the meat. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no pink remains (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain excess fat: If there’s excess grease in the pan, carefully drain it to keep the dish from being too oily.
5. Combining Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together.
- Add the tomatoes: Pour the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste into the skillet with the meat and vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Mix in the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Gently toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Enhancements and Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas to customize your American Chop Suey:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add protein-rich alternatives like mushrooms, tofu, or lentils.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based meat and skip the parmesan cheese.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, carrots, or spinach for more nutrition and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
American Chop Suey pairs beautifully with simple sides. Consider serving it with:
- Garlic bread – For a crispy, buttery accompaniment.
- Green salad – To add some freshness and crunch.
- Grated parmesan and fresh herbs – Sprinkle on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Perfect American Chop Suey
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
- Season as you go: Taste the sauce periodically and adjust seasonings to your liking.
- Let the sauce simmer: This enhances the flavor and thickens the sauce.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional content per serving (based on a standard recipe):
Fat: 10-15g
Calories: ~400-450
Protein: 20-25g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g
FAQs about American Chop Suey Recipe
What is American Chop Suey?
American Chop Suey is a comforting, hearty dish that combines pasta, ground beef, and a tomato-based sauce with onions and bell peppers. It’s often seasoned with various herbs and spices to enhance its flavor. Despite its name, it doesn’t have roots in Chinese cuisine but is a beloved classic in American homes.
What kind of pasta should I use for American Chop Suey?
Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for American Chop Suey because its shape holds onto the sauce well. However, you can use other pasta types like penne, rotini, or shells if you prefer.
Can I make American Chop Suey vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or bulk up the dish with additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
Is American Chop Suey suitable for freezing?
Yes, American Chop Suey freezes well. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What are some common variations of American Chop Suey?
Variations might include adding different proteins like ground turkey or sausage, incorporating more vegetables, or tweaking the spices. Some like to top it off with grated cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.
How long does it take to cook American Chop Suey?
Typically, American Chop Suey can be prepared in about 30 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta, browning the meat, and simmering the sauce to let the flavors meld.
