American Chop Suey Recipe

American Chop Suey is a classic comfort food dish that has been a staple in many homes, particularly in New England. Known for its simplicity and heartiness, this dish is often referred to as American Goulash, although the two have slight differences. In this article, we will provide a detailed recipe, explore the history, and share useful tips for perfecting your American Chop Suey. Let’s dive into the recipe that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness.

The Origins of American Chop Suey

The origins of American Chop Suey are both fascinating and rooted in history. While the name “Chop Suey” suggests a connection to Chinese cuisine, this dish is very much American. Originally inspired by Chinese-American cuisine, it evolved into a pasta-based dish with a tomato-based sauce, ground beef, and vegetables. The fusion of these flavors created a unique and comforting dish that quickly became a household favorite, especially in regions like New England. Unlike traditional Chinese Chop Suey, which is often served over rice, American Chop Suey uses pasta, making it more akin to a casserole. If you want to learn more about the history of American Chop Suey, check out this link.

The appeal of American Chop Suey lies in its versatility and simplicity. It became popular in the early to mid-20th century as a one-pot meal that could easily feed a family without much fuss. The dish’s adaptability allowed home cooks to use whatever ingredients they had on hand, making it a convenient choice during times when resources were limited. As the recipe spread across different states, it took on various names and slight variations, but the comforting essence remained the same.

Traditional Ingredients

For this delicious dish, you will need a few essential ingredients. These staple components are easy to find, making American Chop Suey a convenient meal option for any day of the week.

Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta type used in this dish. Its small size is perfect for holding the sauce and ensuring every bite is flavorful. Some variations may use other pasta types like shells or rotini, but elbow macaroni is the traditional choice.
Ground Beef: This provides the hearty flavor that makes the dish so satisfying. You can also use a mix of ground beef and pork for a more complex flavor profile, though substituting with ground turkey or chicken is also common for a leaner version.
Onions and Bell Peppers: These vegetables add depth to the flavor. Onions offer sweetness when cooked, while bell peppers provide a slight crunch and a mild bitterness that balances the richness of the beef.
Tomato-Based Sauce: A blend of canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, or even tomato paste is used to create the dish’s signature tangy and savory base. Adding a touch of tomato paste can give the sauce a thicker consistency and a more concentrated flavor.
Seasonings: Common seasonings include garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Some cooks add Worcestershire sauce for an extra umami boost, or even a dash of paprika for mild smokiness.

You can view an in-depth nutritional breakdown of this dish here.

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

This guide will help you create American Chop Suey easily at home, ensuring you end up with a comforting and delicious meal.

A. Preparation

Gather all ingredients and kitchen tools: a large skillet, saucepan, and a spoon for stirring. Having everything prepared before starting makes the cooking process much smoother.
Prepare the ingredients by dicing the onions and bell peppers, and measuring out the pasta. You may also want to mince some garlic if you’re adding it to the recipe for an extra aromatic kick.

B. Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set it aside. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce later.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, and sauté until they become soft and fragrant. This step is crucial for building the base flavor of the dish. You can also add minced garlic at this stage, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Be sure to break up any large chunks so that the meat cooks evenly. Drain any excess fat to avoid making the dish too greasy, which could overpower the flavors of the sauce and vegetables.
Combine and Simmer
- Add the tomato-based sauce to the skillet, along with any seasonings. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding a bit of water or broth if needed. Simmering helps to develop the flavors, so don’t rush this step.
Final Combination
- Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir well. Let it cook together for a few more minutes before serving. This allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce, making every bite more flavorful. If you like a creamier texture, you can add a small amount of heavy cream or shredded cheese at this point.

Variations and Substitutions

American Chop Suey is an adaptable dish, and there are many variations and substitutions you can try to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner version. This can significantly reduce the fat content while keeping the dish flavorful. Adding a little olive oil while cooking ground turkey can prevent it from drying out.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat altogether and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms and zucchini. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes, which mimic the texture of ground beef quite well. Adding lentils is another great way to provide protein while keeping the dish vegetarian.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Replace the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free alternative if needed. There are many gluten-free pasta options available today, such as those made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions closely, as gluten-free pasta can have a different texture when overcooked.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. In general, American Chop Suey is rich in protein, carbs, and is a high-energy dish. It provides a balanced meal with carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the meat, and fiber from the vegetables. To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta and lean ground meat. You can also reduce the sodium by using low-sodium canned tomatoes and seasoning sparingly with salt.

For those watching their calorie intake, swapping the regular pasta for a vegetable-based alternative like zucchini noodles can lower the carbohydrate count while adding more nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Sides: Garlic bread and a simple green salad pair well with American Chop Suey. The salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the dish, while the garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Beverages: Enjoy with a glass of iced tea or lemonade. The acidity and slight sweetness of these beverages balance the savory elements of the dish.
Presentation: Serve in a large bowl with a sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley on top for a bit of color. You can also add a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

American Chop Suey is a great dish for meal prep, as it stores well and tastes just as good, if not better, the next day.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld and deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
Reheating: To reheat, simply use a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help restore the original consistency of the sauce.
Freezing: You can freeze American Chop Suey for up to 2 months, but it’s best eaten fresh. If freezing, store it in individual portions for easy reheating, and be sure to label the container with the date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pasta: Remember to cook the pasta al dente, as it will cook further when combined with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, which affects the overall texture of the dish.
Under-seasoning: Be sure to add enough salt and herbs to bring out the best flavors in your American Chop Suey. Taste as you go, and adjust the seasoning accordingly. A well-seasoned dish makes all the difference.
Not Draining the Fat: Always drain excess fat after browning the ground beef to avoid a greasy texture. Fat left in the dish can make it feel heavy and mask the flavors of the other ingredients.
Skipping the Simmering Step: Simmering the sauce is key to developing deep, rich flavors. Rushing this step can result in a less flavorful dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze American Chop Suey?
- Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freezing in smaller portions can make reheating easier and quicker.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
- You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian meat substitute. Lentils and finely chopped mushrooms are also good substitutes for a meatless version.
How can I make it spicier?
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste. You can also sauté some diced jalapeños along with the onions and bell peppers for an extra kick.
Is American Chop Suey the same as American Goulash?
- They are similar but not identical. American Goulash often includes additional seasonings such as paprika, and occasionally, vegetables like corn. The two dishes share a comforting pasta and meat base, but each has unique regional touches that set them apart.
Can I make American Chop Suey in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. Simply brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Conclusion

American Chop Suey is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that embodies the comfort of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re cooking it for a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its combination of hearty beef, savory tomato sauce, and tender pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Give this recipe a try, make it your own, and enjoy every bite!

Experimentation is key when it comes to American Chop Suey. Feel free to try out different types of meat, vegetables, or even seasonings until you find the perfect combination that suits your family’s preferences. Remember, this dish is all about comfort and convenience, bringing people together over simple, hearty flavors. For another easy, hearty dish idea, check out our Taco Bowl Recipe.

American Chop Suey is all about comfort and convenience. Feel free to experiment with ingredients to suit your family’s taste, and remember that it’s a dish meant to bring people together over hearty and simple flavors. Whether served fresh or reheated the next day, it’s a dish that will remind you of the warmth of home and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.