American Chop Suey

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There’s something deeply nostalgic and comforting about a bowl of American Chop Suey. This classic American dish is a hearty one-pot wonder made with elbow macaroni, ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of peppers and spices that come together in a rich, savory sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor that reminds you of home-cooked meals from childhood. Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or preparing leftovers for the next day, this dish delivers every time.

American Chop Suey isn’t actually Chinese, despite its name. It’s a New England staple that’s more akin to a beefy, tomato-rich pasta dish than anything found in an Asian kitchen. What makes it shine is its versatility—you can load it up with veggies, make it cheesy, or spice it up. With a base of tender elbow macaroni soaking up a meaty tomato sauce, each bite is hearty, warming, and incredibly delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This American Chop Suey

• One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Ready in under an hour: A great weeknight option.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike love this satisfying dish.
• Customizable: Use different meats, vegetables, or spice levels to suit your taste.
• Meal prep friendly: Makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients.
• Freezer-friendly: Store portions for busy nights later.
• Balanced comfort: Carbs, protein, and veggies all in one meal.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

To make American Chop Suey as seamless and enjoyable as possible, having the right tools ready can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This is the star of your kitchen for this recipe. A Dutch oven distributes heat evenly, prevents burning, and is big enough to hold everything from the sautéed meat to the pasta and sauce.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: These are ideal for stirring your sauce and pasta without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Colander: To drain your cooked pasta. Choose a sturdy one with handles for ease and safety.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping onions, peppers, and garlic—fresh, precise cuts make for better texture and flavor.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Exact measurements ensure consistency, especially when balancing the tomato base with spices.
• Can Opener: Since you’ll likely use canned tomatoes or tomato sauce, having a reliable can opener on hand is a time-saver.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon (Optional): Handy if you want to transfer pasta directly into the sauce or mix in batches.

Having these tools prepped before cooking allows you to stay focused, keep the workflow smooth, and avoid overcooking any element of the dish.

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Preparation Tips

• Mise en place is key: Dice your veggies, open cans, and measure spices before turning on the stove. This makes everything flow smoothly.
• Cook pasta al dente: Since it simmers in the sauce later, slightly undercook your pasta so it doesn’t become mushy.
• Drain meat properly: After browning your ground beef, drain off any excess fat to prevent a greasy sauce—unless you prefer a richer, more indulgent version.
• Use fresh garlic and onion: While powders can work, fresh aromatics make a big flavor difference.
• Layer your seasoning: Salt in stages—season your meat, then the sauce, and taste before serving.
• Simmer, don’t boil: Once all components are in, keep it at a low simmer to marry the flavors without reducing the sauce too much.
• Finish with a touch of sweetness: A teaspoon of sugar or splash of balsamic vinegar balances the acidity of the tomatoes nicely.

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Ingredients for This American Chop Suey Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life. These ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe both convenient and budget-friendly.

• 1 pound elbow macaroni – the classic pasta shape for American Chop Suey; it holds the sauce beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the vegetables and enhancing flavor.
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or lean) – hearty and flavorful; the base of your protein.
• 1 yellow onion, diced – adds natural sweetness and depth.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – for crunch and a fresh, slightly bitter note.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for building that aromatic base.
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes – forms the rich, thick sauce.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained) – adds texture and tomato chunks to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – brings a blend of herbs like basil and oregano.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – adds a touch of warmth and color.
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar – balances acidity from the tomatoes.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – essential seasoning.
• 1/2 cup water or beef broth (optional) – use if the sauce needs thinning.
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – for a slight kick of heat.
• Optional: Shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan for topping – if you love a cheesy finish.

These ingredients combine to create a dish that’s savory, well-balanced, and deeply satisfying.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Do not overcook—remember, it will continue to cook in the sauce later.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.

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Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onions and green bell peppers to the beef. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes, until they soften slightly. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

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Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add 1/2 cup water or beef broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.

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Step 5: Simmer for Rich Flavor

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps deepen the flavors and thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.

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Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained macaroni to the sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated. Let it cook together for another 5 minutes over low heat so the pasta absorbs all that rich flavor.

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Step 7: Taste and Finish

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add a bit more salt, pepper, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. If you like it cheesy, sprinkle in shredded cheddar or parmesan and stir until melted.

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Step 8: Serve Hot

Spoon generous portions into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese, if desired.

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Notes

• Make it your own: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Bulk it up: Add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or shredded carrots for more nutrition.
• Cheese lovers: Stir in some cheddar or mozzarella at the end for a melty, comforting finish.
• Sauce adjustment: If you prefer a saucier dish, add a splash more broth or tomato sauce after mixing in the pasta.
• Meal prep tip: This dish holds up beautifully in the fridge, so feel free to double the batch for lunches all week.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Always cook it slightly under so it doesn’t turn mushy when simmered in the sauce.
• Skipping the drain step for beef: Leaving too much grease in the pot can make the sauce oily and heavy.
• Adding pasta too early: Don’t mix in the macaroni until the sauce has fully developed its flavor.
• Using too much tomato paste: It can make the dish overly thick or acidic. Stick to the amount listed.
• Forgetting to taste and adjust: Tomato-based sauces vary—season as you go, especially before serving.
• Cooking on high heat: Letting the sauce simmer slowly is crucial for deep flavor; avoid boiling.
• Crowding the pot: If doubling the recipe, use a larger pot to allow everything to cook evenly.
• Not saving some pasta water or broth: It helps adjust the consistency of your sauce if needed.

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What to Serve With American Chop Suey?

While American Chop Suey is satisfying on its own, pairing it with a few well-chosen sides can round out the meal and add freshness or texture to balance the rich, savory flavors.

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread
   A crusty loaf brushed with garlic butter and toasted to golden perfection—perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
2. Simple Green Salad
   A refreshing mix of leafy greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish.
3. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans
   Lightly steamed veggies add color, nutrients, and crunch to your plate without overpowering the main dish.
4. Caesar Salad
   Creamy, tangy, and crunchy—Caesar salad pairs exceptionally well with tomato-based pastas.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until crispy. Adds a caramelized bite to contrast the softness of the pasta.
6. Cornbread or Dinner Rolls
   Soft, slightly sweet breads that soak up the sauce and add a comforting side.
7. Pickled Vegetables or Giardiniera
   A tangy, acidic counterpoint that balances the dish’s deep, savory flavor.
8. Grated Parmesan or Fresh Mozzarella
   Serve a small cheese board or simply offer freshly grated cheese on top for an extra savory touch.

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Storage Instructions

American Chop Suey stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

• Refrigeration: Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: Reheat individual portions on medium power in 60-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
  • Stovetop: Warm gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Oven (for larger portions): Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until warmed through.

Tip: If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 7g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 580mg

Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is American Chop Suey the same as goulash?

Not exactly. While similar, American Chop Suey is a New England variation of American goulash. Both dishes use elbow macaroni and ground beef in a tomato-based sauce, but goulash often includes paprika-heavy seasoning and may have different veggies.

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2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles, lentils, or chopped mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth if thinning the sauce.

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3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes. Penne, rotini, or shells work well, but elbow macaroni is traditional because it holds the sauce perfectly and cooks evenly.

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4. Can I add cheese to the dish?

Definitely. Many people love mixing in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even a handful of parmesan for a creamy, cheesy version. You can also sprinkle it on top before serving.

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5. How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?

Cook the pasta al dente, and don’t let it sit too long in the sauce on the stovetop. If storing for later, you can even keep the pasta and sauce separate until reheating.

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6. Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes! Let it cool completely, portion into containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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7. Can I make this spicy?

Of course. Add red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a splash of hot sauce during cooking. Adjust to your heat preference.

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8. What type of ground meat works best?

Ground beef (80/20) is traditional, but you can use lean beef, ground turkey, pork, or even chicken. Each will offer a slightly different flavor and fat content.

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Conclusion

American Chop Suey is the kind of dish that brings warmth, satisfaction, and a touch of nostalgia to the table. With its simple ingredients, flexible recipe, and one-pot cooking style, it’s a go-to for weeknight dinners, family meals, or comforting leftovers. Whether you follow the classic version or make it your own with veggies, cheese, or spice, this dish delivers every time. It’s comfort food at its finest—easy to prepare, deeply flavorful, and loved by all ages.

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