introduction
I remember my grandmother making American Chop Suey on chilly Sunday afternoons. The aroma of sizzling beef and melting cheese filled her cozy kitchen. It was one of those dishes that brought everyone together, with family crowding around the table, eager to dig into a hearty, comforting meal. As a child, I loved how the colorful bell peppers and pasta came together in one big skillet. This dish was more than just a meal; it was a reminder of home, love, and warmth.
This American Chop Suey recipe is not only easy to whip up but also a hit with both kids and adults. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend family gathering. You’ll find it’s a satisfying mix of ground beef, colorful vegetables, and pasta, making it a delicious one-pot meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This American Chop Suey offers a fantastic blend of flavors and textures. It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish, and it’s a great way to use up pantry staples. Plus, you can customize it to suit your family’s taste! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
How to make American Chop Suey
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 oz canned tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet; sauté until tender (around 4-5 minutes).
- Make the sauce: Stir in minced garlic, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Combine: Mix in the cooked macaroni with the meat mixture until everything is well combined.
- Serve: Plate the American Chop Suey and sprinkle grated cheese on top if desired.
Tips to make American Chop Suey
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- For a little kick, throw in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Don’t have elbow macaroni? Any pasta shape will work just fine!
How to serve American Chop Suey
Serve American Chop Suey hot, topped with a sprinkle of grated cheese or fresh herbs for a little extra flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal. Enjoying this dish in a cozy setting will enhance the experience!
How to store American Chop Suey
To store leftovers, let the American Chop Suey cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Variation
If you’re looking for a lighter version, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. For a vegetarian twist, swap the meat for lentils or beans.
FAQs About American Chop Suey
1. Can I make American Chop Suey ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the day before and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
2. What can I add to make it more flavorful?
You can add spices like Italian seasoning, paprika, or cayenne for an extra kick.
3. Is American Chop Suey gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned sauce?
Absolutely! Just chop up fresh tomatoes and cook them down a bit to create a sauce-like consistency. Adjust seasonings accordingly.
American Chop Suey
A comforting one-pot meal of ground beef, colorful vegetables, and elbow macaroni, perfect for family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Meat
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 oz canned tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet; sauté until tender (around 4-5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni with the meat mixture until everything is well combined.
- Plate the American Chop Suey and sprinkle grated cheese on top if desired.
Notes
Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition. Substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version.
