American Chop Suey

American Chop Suey is a dish that brings a wave of comfort with every bite. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners, this is it! A one-pot recipe is a dream come true for those of us who want to enjoy good food without doing a mountain of dishes afterward. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile; you can swap out ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or your family’s preferences. Whether you’re a busy parent trying to whip up a quick meal or a cooking enthusiast eager to put your personal spin on a classic, American Chop Suey will quickly become a favorite in your home. So, grab your apron and let’s delve into this mouthwatering creation!

Why You’ll Love This American Chop Suey

American Chop Suey is not just your average dinner; it’s comfort food at its finest. This dish stands out because it combines hearty flavors and textures that warm your heart and soul. The fact that it all comes together in one pot means less time spent on cleanup, leaving you with more quality time with your loved ones or a chance to relax after dinner. The versatility of American Chop Suey makes it even more appealing. You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your family’s taste, ensuring that everyone is happy at the table.

What is American Chop Suey

American Chop Suey is a traditional dish that originated in New England, although similar variations can be found across the country. It’s often confused with Chinese chop suey, but make no mistake; this is a uniquely American creation. Historically, this dish has roots in the late 19th century when inexpensive, readily available ingredients were used to feed families. Regional variations abound, with some versions adding spices or different vegetables. However, the core of American Chop Suey remains the same: a comforting mix of pasta, ground meat, and a medley of flavorful ingredients.

The key characteristics of American Chop Suey include its rich tomato-based sauce, hearty components, and a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a dish that feels familiar and can be customized to align with what’s in season or what your taste buds crave.

Essential Ingredients for American Chop Suey

To make a delicious batch of American Chop Suey, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced green pepper
• 1 stick celery (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 2 ½ cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Gathering these ingredients gives you the foundation for a heartwarming dish that feels like home.

Cooking American Chop Suey

Let’s get into the cooking process! This part is both fun and rewarding, as you’ll see how all the ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal.

Cooking the Ground Beef

First and foremost, start by cooking and crumbling the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Give it about 8 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked, making sure to drain any excess grease. This step sets the stage for all the incredible flavors to come.

Adding the Seasonings and Vegetables

Once the beef is ready, it’s time to enhance those flavors! Incorporate Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and tomato paste directly into the beef. Then, toss in the diced onions, green peppers, and celery. Cook this mixture for an additional 4 minutes, letting those vegetables soften beautifully. You’ll quickly notice that comforting aroma filling your kitchen!

Incorporating the Garlic and Sauces

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 1 minute. Adding garlic at this point packs a punch of flavor. After that, mix in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, the undrained diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir everything until it’s fully combined, creating a rich, delicious sauce.

Cooking the Pasta

Now comes the fun part where everything comes together. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot, ensuring it’s fully combined with all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, cover it, and let it cook for about 4 minutes. This step allows the pasta to soak in all the meaty, tomatoey goodness.

Final Cooking Steps

When the initial 4 minutes are up, uncover the pot and gently lift any settled bits at the bottom with a silicone spatula. Cover it partially and let it boil gently for another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks to achieve that perfect level of doneness – tasting a noodle is always a good idea. Once it’s ready, turn off the heat and allow the pasta to soak up more liquid.

Adding the Cheese (if desired)

If you’re a cheese lover, this is the moment to shine! Gradually sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and give it a gentle stir until it’s melted and creamy. There you go, your American Chop Suey is now ready to serve!

Serving Suggestions

Serving American Chop Suey is delightful. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Serve warm with a side of flavorful garlic bread.
• Complement with a fresh garden salad to bring brightness to your meal.
• For added flair, top with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of more cheese.

Tips for Success

While making this dish is pretty straightforward, a few tips can ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh, whole cheese for better melting – it really makes a difference in flavor.
• Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings according to your taste. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up!
• If you’re cooking for a crowd, doubling the recipe is an excellent idea for larger gatherings or meal prep.

Variations

American Chop Suey is all about personal touches. Here are some variations you might enjoy:

• Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter dish.
• Get creative with vegetables! Add in mushrooms, zucchini, or any other favorites you have on hand.
• Switch up the pasta shapes too! Penne or shells could give it a fun twist.

Storage Tips

After enjoying a hearty meal, you may find some leftovers. Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• You can freeze portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Pairing Ideas

Pairing can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

• A crisp white wine or a light lager makes a lovely accompaniment.
• Enjoy with cornbread or fluffy biscuits for a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat for American Chop Suey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives based on your preference.

2. How can I make American Chop Suey vegetarian?
Simply use a combination of vegetables and beans, along with vegetable broth, instead of meat and beef broth.

3. What can I serve with American Chop Suey?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, salads, or even steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

4. Can I make American Chop Suey ahead of time?
Oh, yes! It keeps well in the fridge, and the flavors deepen when it’s reheated.

5. How do I reheat leftovers effectively?
The stove works best for even heating; just add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

American Chop Suey is truly a beloved dish, encapsulating warmth and nostalgia. It’s perfect for family gatherings or any time comfort food is needed. With its one-pot ease and customizable nature, this dish can easily adapt to fit whatever you have in mind. So go ahead, try this recipe, and make it a cherished addition to your dinner table!

More Easy Holiday Recipes:

• Jambalaya
• Easter Bunny Pancakes
• Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi
• Ground Beef Stroganoff

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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American Chop Suey

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American Chop Suey is a heartwarming dish that combines pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners or meal prep, offering flavor and ease in one pot.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced green pepper
• 1 stick celery (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 2 ½ cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

• Cook and crumble the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 8 minutes. Drain excess grease.
• Add Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and tomato paste to the beef. Mix in diced onions, green peppers, and celery; cook for 4 minutes.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Mix in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
• Add uncooked elbow macaroni and bring to a gentle boil. Cover and cook for 4 minutes.
• Uncover, gently stir, cover partially, and boil for another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Notes

Use fresh, whole cheese for better melting.
Adjust seasonings based on personal taste preferences.
Doubling the recipe is great for larger gatherings.

• Author: Martha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5
• Sodium: 800
• Fat: 20
• Saturated Fat: 8
• Unsaturated Fat: 10
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45
• Fiber: 3
• Protein: 25
• Cholesterol: 70