American Chop Suey is a classic, hearty comfort food that has been a staple in many households for generations. Despite its name, this dish has no connection to traditional Chinese cuisine. Instead, it is a distinctly American creation made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and simple seasonings. Warm, filling, and budget-friendly, American Chop Suey is known for its rich tomato-based sauce, tender pasta, and savory meat, making it a reliable go-to meal for busy weeknights and family dinners.
I love this recipe because it’s nostalgic, simple, and deeply satisfying. It reminds me of home-cooked meals that bring everyone to the table without fuss. The flavors are familiar and comforting, and the recipe is incredibly forgiving, allowing you to adapt it with whatever ingredients you have on hand.
This is a must-try dish because it’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and universally loved. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or serving on a cold day when you want something warm and filling. Its simplicity and flexibility make it a timeless classic worth adding to your regular meal rotation.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Approximate Calories: 400–450 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Cook the pasta separately, brown the beef with vegetables, simmer in tomato sauce, and combine everything until well mixed and flavorful.
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Step 3: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the beef. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Step 5: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 6: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
Step 7: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Step 8: Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and mix until evenly combined.
Step 9: Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat and serve.
Serve American Chop Suey hot in bowls or plates. It pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also top it with grated cheese for extra richness.
Cheesy American Chop Suey: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella before serving.
Vegetable-Packed Version: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Turkey Chop Suey: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Baked Version: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer Storage: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
American Chop Suey is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth, simplicity, and satisfaction to the table. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a dependable recipe that fits any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or preparing meals ahead, this classic dish delivers hearty flavor and comforting familiarity every time.
American Chop Suey is a classic, hearty comfort food that has been a staple in many households for generations. Despite its name, this dish has no connection to traditional Chinese cuisine.
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