American chop suey is a classic comfort food that has been popular in American households for many years. This easy-to-make dish combines pasta, ground beef, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce with simple vegetables like onions and bell peppers. Loved for its simplicity and heartiness, American chop suey is a go-to meal when you need something quick, filling, and delicious.
Introduction to American Chop Suey Recipe
American chop suey is not only a tasty dish but also incredibly easy to prepare. It typically features ground meat such as beef or turkey, mixed with elbow macaroni and a rich tomato sauce. You can add vegetables like onions and garlic for extra flavor. What makes this dish even better is that it’s versatile—you can tweak it to fit your preferences or dietary needs. For example, using plant-based meat is a great alternative if you want to make a vegetarian version.
Additionally, the name “chop suey” is borrowed from Chinese cuisine, although the American version is quite different. Rather than stir-frying, American chop suey focuses on pasta, meat, and tomato sauce for a comforting and filling meal. If you’re interested in perfecting how to cook ground beef, check out this ground beef cooking guide for tips.
For more ideas on delicious and hearty meals, you can explore our Pumpkin Banana Loaf recipe, a comforting snack for any season.
Historical Background: Where Did American Chop Suey Come From?
The origins of American chop suey are rooted in New England, where it became popular as a quick, hearty dinner option. Unlike its Chinese counterpart, which involves a mixture of meats and vegetables cooked with soy sauce, American chop suey focuses on pasta and a tomato-based sauce. Over time, this dish became a staple in many American homes, especially during the mid-20th century. Its simplicity, affordability, and flavor made it a favorite across the country.
For a perfect pasta dish like this, learning how to cook perfect pasta is key. Follow these pasta cooking tips to ensure you get the best texture. Additionally, for more inspiration on meals that combine comforting textures and flavors, check out our Sourdough Discard Recipes, where we highlight creative uses for sourdough discard.
Core Ingredients of an American Chop Suey Recipe
At its core, American chop suey contains a few essential ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the main components:
- Ground meat: Traditionally, ground beef is used, but you can substitute turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is the most common choice, though you can experiment with other types like ziti or rigatoni.
- Tomato-based sauce: A rich sauce made with canned tomatoes, marinara, or tomato paste gives the dish its bold flavor.
- Vegetables: Onion, garlic, and bell pepper are often added for texture and flavor.
The Role of Ground Meat in the American Chop Suey Recipe
Ground beef plays a crucial role in creating the hearty base of American chop suey. It provides protein and richness to the dish. You can also swap it out for turkey to make a leaner version. Some people opt for plant-based meat to create a vegetarian alternative that still delivers on flavor. Regardless of which meat you use, browning it with onions and garlic helps build the dish’s depth of flavor.
For more ideas on how to maximize flavor with simple ingredients, you can check out Sourdough Discard Breakfast Recipes for creative breakfast options.
Choosing the Right Pasta for American Chop Suey
While elbow macaroni is the classic pasta choice, other options like ziti, rigatoni, or penne can work well, too. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold the sauce and meat mixture without becoming too soft. Cooking the pasta al dente is essential to avoid a mushy texture when everything is combined.
The Importance of Tomato-Based Sauce in the American Chop Suey Recipe
The tomato sauce is what ties everything together in American chop suey. You can use canned tomatoes, marinara sauce, or even tomato paste. To enhance the flavor, many recipes suggest adding Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning. The rich, savory sauce coats the pasta and meat, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor.
Adding Vegetables for More Texture and Nutrition
Vegetables like onion, garlic, and bell pepper are commonly added to American chop suey for extra texture and taste. These vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add nutritional value. You can also include carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini if you want to increase the veggie content. Sautéing these vegetables helps release their natural sweetness and complements the richness of the meat and sauce.
For more ways to incorporate veggies into your meals, you can check out Cranberry Sauce Recipe, which provides a perfect balance of sweet and tart for your main dishes.
Spices and Seasonings in an American Chop Suey Recipe
Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs are all you need to bring out the best flavors in this dish. Adding Worcestershire sauce or red pepper flakes can elevate the taste even more. A small amount of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomato sauce, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
Variations
One of the best things about American chop suey is its flexibility. There are many ways to customize the dish to meet your dietary needs or preferences.
Vegetarian and Vegan
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the meat with plant-based protein like lentils or tofu. For a vegan option, ensure that the sauce and pasta are free from animal products, and substitute with dairy-free alternatives if needed. For a perfect addition to your zero-waste kitchen, try our Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful treat made from leftover ingredients.
Gluten-Free
For those following a gluten-free diet, you can easily swap out regular pasta for a gluten-free variety such as quinoa pasta or gluten-free macaroni. Just make sure to check the sauce ingredients for any hidden sources of gluten.
Spicy American Chop Suey Recipe
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can spice things up by adding red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced chili peppers. This will give your American chop suey a spicy kick that balances beautifully with the savory flavors of the meat and sauce.
How to Make an American Chop Suey Recipe
Making this recipe is simple and straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious meal:
Step-by-Step Instructions for American Chop Suey Recipe
- Cook the pasta: Boil elbow macaroni until it’s al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Brown the meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or turkey) along with chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
- Add the sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Combine: Once the sauce has simmered, mix in the cooked pasta until everything is coated evenly.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
For more ideas on creating simple but delicious meals, explore Just Bare Chicken Nuggets Recipe, another easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion.
What to Serve with Chop Suey Recipe
To round out your meal, here are some great sides that pair well with American chop suey:
- Garlic bread: The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread complements the rich, savory flavors of the dish.
- Caesar salad: A fresh Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chop suey.
- Roasted vegetables: Pair the dish with roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
For drinks, a glass of iced tea or lemonade can balance the richness of the dish, while a light red wine or beer also pairs well.
FAQs
What’s the Difference Between American Chop Suey and Goulash?
While both dishes are pasta-based, American chop suey uses elbow macaroni and a tomato-based sauce, whereas goulash often includes paprika and can feature different pasta or potatoes. The main difference lies in the seasoning and sauce consistency.
Can I Make American Chop Suey Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you
can! Prepare the dish in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat it when needed. It’s perfect for meal prep and can last for up to four days.
Can I Freeze it?
Absolutely. American chop suey freezes well. Just portion it out into containers, freeze for up to three months, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
The joy of making American chop suey comes from its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients like pasta, ground beef, and tomato sauce, you can prepare a delicious and comforting meal in no time. The flavors blend beautifully, and the dish is both hearty and filling. Plus, it’s easy to adjust based on what you have in your kitchen, making it a flexible option for busy days. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just yourself, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Weeknight Dinners and Meal Prep
American chop suey is perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick and satisfying. It’s not just delicious when freshly made; it also holds up well as leftovers. In fact, the flavors seem to deepen after a day or two. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for later. This makes it a great choice for meal prep, ensuring you always have a home-cooked meal ready when life gets busy. By reheating it, you get the same comforting flavors in no time.
A Versatile Dish for Every Occasion
Another reason why this recipe remains a favorite is its versatility. You can easily change the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you prefer adding extra vegetables, using different pasta shapes, or trying a plant-based version, this dish adapts well to various ingredients. Its simple base allows you to experiment with new flavors, so you can get creative without straying too far from the classic taste. This flexibility means you can enjoy it often without getting tired of it.
Comfort Food That Brings Everyone Together
In the end, American chop suey is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. Its familiar flavors and easy preparation make it a favorite across generations. Whether you’re cooking for a large family or just yourself, this dish satisfies every time. Sharing a warm, hearty meal like this is a wonderful way to connect with loved ones and enjoy some homemade goodness. So, next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and simple, give this recipe a try. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how satisfying it is to eat.
For more ideas on easy and tasty meals, explore Perdue Chicken Tenders for more inspiration.