Growing up, there was always a comforting scent in the air whenever my mother decided to whip up her version of American Chop Suey. The combination of savory ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and just the right amount of spices can transport you to a cozy family dinner table, any day of the week. This classic dish, often dubbed American Goulash, effortlessly melds flavors and textures into a one-pot wonder that feels both nostalgic and new.
I stumbled upon this recipe while rummaging through my own spice cabinet, a treasure hunt that led to a savory adventure. With its hearty filling and quick prep, it’s the perfect solution for those fast-food fatigue days when all you really want is something homemade and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of American Chop Suey is in its versatile nature—customizable to suit your preferences while still delivering a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. So, let’s dive into this quick, crowd-pleasing recipe that promises to elevate your weeknight dinners!
Why is American Chop Suey a must-try?
Comforting flavors: American Chop Suey combines the heartiness of ground beef and rich tomato sauce, creating a dish that warms your soul.
Quick & easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this satisfying meal in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family favorite: Its delightful blend of textures and flavors makes it a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.
Customizable goodness: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or spices, so it’s never boring! Plus, this recipe is a wonderful opportunity to explore variations, like trying it with cooked macaroni or different cheeses.
One-pot wonder: Clean-up is a breeze, letting you enjoy more time with loved ones over dinner.
American Chop Suey Ingredients
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For the Meat Base
• Ground beef – 1.5 lbs for a hearty protein foundation, but ground turkey works too for a leaner option.
• Italian seasoning – 2 teaspoons to elevate flavor with a burst of aromatic herbs.
• Seasoned salt – 2 teaspoons to enhance overall taste without over-salting.
• Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon for that rich garlic essence that ties everything together. -
For the Vegetables
• Diced onion – 1 cup adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Diced green pepper – 1 cup offers a crunchy texture and bright flavor.
• Celery, diced – 1 stick contributes crunch and a subtle earthiness.
• Minced garlic – 4 cloves for a fresh and aromatic kick in every bite. -
For the Sauce
• Tomato paste – 3 tablespoons to intensify the tomato flavor in your American Chop Suey.
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon adds a complex umami flavor that deepens the sauce.
• Diced tomatoes – 14.5 oz, undrained, for juicy bursts of tomato goodness.
• Tomato sauce – 16 oz creates a rich sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. -
For the Broth and Macaroni
• Chicken broth or beef broth – 2 ½ cups provides a savory base for your sauce.
• Elbow macaroni – 2 cups, uncooked, that will soak up all the delicious flavors as it cooks. -
For Serving
• Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup, optional for a creamy, melty topping that makes it extra comforting.
How to Make American Chop Suey
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Cook beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Drain the excess grease to keep it lean and delicious.
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Add flavors: Stir in the Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and garlic powder along with the tomato paste. Mix well and let it cook for a minute to enhance the flavors.
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Sauté veggies: Add the diced onions, green peppers, and celery to the pot. Cook everything together for about 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
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Stir in sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, mixing it thoroughly with the meat and veggies until combined. The rich color and aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
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Combine liquids: Add the Worcestershire sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and your choice of chicken or beef broth. Stir to blend all the ingredients beautifully.
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Add macaroni: Toss in the uncooked elbow macaroni, stirring to evenly distribute it throughout the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting the flavors meld together.
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Cover and simmer: Cover the pot for 4 minutes. Afterward, uncover and gently run a silicone spatula along the bottom, lifting any ingredients that might have settled.
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Partial cover and continue: Partially cover the pot and let it boil for an additional 4 minutes while repeating the spatula motion to ensure everything cooks evenly.
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Check doneness: Heat for another 2-3 minutes or until the macaroni is fully cooked. Taste-test a noodle to ensure it’s just right before turning off the heat. The pasta will soak up any remaining liquid.
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Finish with cheese: If you desire an extra layer of comfort, gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and combined. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty meal!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze American Chop Suey
Fridge: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Portion out your American Chop Suey in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, preserving its comforting flavors.
Thawing: To thaw, transfer it to the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. For best results, reheat it on low heat on the stove until piping hot.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally for even heating—your family will enjoy it just as much as the first time!
Expert Tips for American Chop Suey
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Perfectly Browned Beef: Make sure the ground beef is fully browned before adding other ingredients; undercooked beef can lead to unwanted flavors in your American Chop Suey.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: If you double the recipe, use a larger pot to avoid steaming the ingredients. A single layer helps ensure proper cooking.
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Check Pasta Carefully: Stir occasionally and taste-test the macaroni not just by time, but for doneness for a perfectly cooked bite; overcooked pasta mushes in the sauce.
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Fresh Herbs Delight: Consider adding fresh basil or oregano towards the end of cooking for a delightful herby aroma that enhances the flavor further.
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Cheese Timing: If using cheese, add it off the heat to prevent clumping. Stir it in slowly for an even melt and distribution throughout your American Chop Suey.
What to Serve with American Chop Suey?
As you savor the comforting embrace of this savory dish, consider these delightful sides that complement its hearty goodness.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery slices are perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cleanses the palate, balancing the rich flavors of American Chop Suey.
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Steamed Broccoli: This tender, vibrant vegetable adds a nutritious pop of color and an earthy contrast to the dish’s warmth.
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Cheesy Cornbread: Its sweet and savory notes make for a comforting companion that pairs beautifully with the savory richness of American Chop Suey.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers refreshing, tangy vibes that cut through the richness, creating a perfect balance with the satisfying goulash.
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Sweet Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweet iced tea provides a light sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the hearty flavors of your meal.
With these pairings in mind, you’re all set for a cozy dinner that will leave your family feeling satisfied and loved!
Make Ahead Options
These American Chop Suey preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can cook and crumble the ground beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring they remain fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce—mixing in the tomato paste, broth, and seasonings—and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef and vegetable mixture in a large pot, add the sauce, then stir in the uncooked macaroni. Bring it to a gentle boil, cover, and cook until the macaroni is tender. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a cozy, homemade meal ready with minimal effort!
American Chop Suey Variations
Feel free to get creative with your American Chop Suey by trying out these exciting variations that add a twist to this classic dish!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the beef for a zesty heat that will warm you from the inside out.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap ground beef for lentils or diced mushrooms to create a hearty, meatless version packed with flavor and nutrients.
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Cheesy Bliss: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a gooey, melty texture that elevates every bite into cheesy perfection.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and vibrant color that makes every serving pop.
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Smoky Flavor: Stir in smoked paprika or chipotle in adobo for a subtle smoky flavor that adds depth to the dish. It’s a thrilling twist that’ll surprise and delight your taste buds!
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Mediterranean Style: Incorporate black olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist that makes your American Chop Suey feel like a sunny escape.
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Protein Boost: For even more heartiness, consider adding cooked chickpeas or quinoa. It’s a delightful way to sneak in plant-based protein!
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Herbed Freshness: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley by stirring them in just before serving for a refreshing finish that brightens the dish.
Classic American Chop Suey Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ground beef for my American Chop Suey?
Absolutely! Look for ground beef with a fat content of around 80% to 85%, which strikes the perfect balance between flavor and juiciness. You want it lean enough to be healthy but with some fat to keep the dish from being dry.
What’s the best way to store leftover American Chop Suey?
For fridge storage, keep your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I suggest reheating on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, ensuring you enjoy that delightful taste once again!
Can I freeze American Chop Suey? How should I do it?
Very! To freeze, portion out your American Chop Suey into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion during freezing. It can last up to 3 months! To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting, then reheat on low on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
What should I do if my macaroni is overcooked?
If you find that your macaroni has become mushy, don’t fret! The best remedy is to refrigerate the dish. Once cool, blend the mix into a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 15 minutes until heated through. This gives your American Chop Suey a delightful new texture!
Is American Chop Suey suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! To make your American Chop Suey gluten-free, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta alternative. Make sure all sauces and seasonings are labeled gluten-free too, and you’ll have a cheerful meal for everyone!
What can I add to my American Chop Suey for extra flavor?
The more the merrier! Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano towards the end of cooking for a flavorful kick. You can also mix in sautéed mushrooms or corn for added texture and flavor, making the dish even more delightful!
Easy American Chop Suey: A Cozy Goulash for Your Family!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Drain the excess grease.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and garlic powder along with the tomato paste. Cook for a minute to enhance flavors.
- Add the diced onions, green peppers, and celery. Cook for about 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, mixing it thoroughly with the meat and veggies until combined.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and your choice of chicken or beef broth. Stir to blend.
- Toss in the uncooked elbow macaroni, stirring to evenly distribute. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cover the pot for 4 minutes. Uncover and stir to lift ingredients that may have settled.
- Partially cover and let it boil for an additional 4 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Heat for another 2-3 minutes until the macaroni is fully cooked. Taste to ensure doneness.
- If desired, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and combined. Serve hot.