American Chop Suey Recipe – Easy Homemade Comfort Food

Introduction

American Chop Suey Recipe is the classic comfort food dish loved in New England. This one-pot meal is made with savory ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s ready in just 30 minutes.

With over 250 5-star reviews, our easy homemade American Chop Suey recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for big families or meal prepping. Get ready to indulge in the flavors of this New England staple.

Key Takeaways

  • Classic New England comfort food dish
  • Made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and tomato sauce
  • Ready in just 30 minutes for a quick, easy meal
  • Over 250 5-star reviews for this recipe
  • Perfect for big families and meal prep

What is American Chop Suey: A New England Classic

American chop suey is a favorite comfort food in New England. It’s a casserole made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a tasty tomato sauce. This makes it a filling and enjoyable meal.

Origins and Regional Names

The history of American chop suey goes back to the late 1800s. In New England, it’s called American chop suey. But, it’s also known as goulash, chili mac, or Johnny Marzetti casserole in other parts of the country.

Key Ingredients Overview

The main parts of American chop suey are ground beef, elbow macaroni, onions, bell peppers, and tomato sauce. Worcestershire sauce adds a special beefy taste. The tomato juice makes the dish lighter than usual pasta dishes.

Why This Recipe Works

American chop suey is a new england classic loved for its comfort. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for cold weather. This makes it a favorite in New England during the colder months.

“American Chop Suey (New England Style) is my favorite dinner during the winter. It’s heartier than soup but lighter than a traditional pasta dish, making it the perfect cold-weather meal.”

– Dominique Collins-Bloomfield, Food Writer

Essential Ingredients for Traditional American Chop Suey Recipe

The classic American Chop Suey recipe has a few key ingredients. These ingredients create the dish’s unique flavor and texture. Ground beef, elbow macaroni, and various vegetables and tomato-based components are at the heart of this New England favorite.

It starts with 1.5 lbs of 85% lean ground beef. This gives the dish a hearty, savory taste. Then, 1 pound of elbow macaroni is added for a satisfying starch. Diced green bell peppers, white onions, and 4 minced garlic cloves add important aromatic and vegetal flavors.

The tomato-based flavors come from 2 cups of tomato sauce, 2 cups of crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes, and a bit of tomato paste. This mix creates a rich, slightly sweet and tangy sauce. Dried oregano, basil, and parsley add herbaceous complexity. A splash of Worcestershire sauce (optional) adds depth.

With these key ingredients – ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, and vegetables – the traditional American Chop Suey recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal. It has delighted many generations of home cooks.

The recipe makes about 4 servings. Each serving has around 353 calories, 51g of carbs, 26g of protein, and 4.7g of fat. This makes American Chop Suey a satisfying and balanced dish. It can be enjoyed on its own or with side dishes.

Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed

To make the tasty American Chop Suey, you’ll need some key tools and appliances. A Dutch oven is essential. It’s a 5.5 to 7.5 quart cast-iron pot that cooks evenly and keeps heat well. You can also use a heavy-bottomed large pot or skillet as a substitute.

Recommended Pot Types

  • 5.5-7.5 quart cast-iron Dutch oven for even heat distribution and superior heat retention
  • Heavy-bottomed large pot or skillet as an alternative

Additional Kitchen Tools

  1. Wooden spoon for stirring the ingredients
  2. Colander for draining the cooked pasta
  3. Measuring cups and spoons for accurately portioning the recipe components

With the right cookware and tools, you’ll be ready to make a delicious American Chop Suey. It’s a comforting dish you can make in your kitchen.

Kitchen Tool Purpose
Dutch oven Provides even heat distribution and superior heat retention for simmering the dish
Large pot or skillet Suitable alternative to a Dutch oven for cooking the American Chop Suey
Wooden spoon Used for stirring the ingredients during the cooking process
Colander Drains the cooked pasta before adding it to the dish
Measuring cups and spoons Ensures accurate portioning of the recipe components

American Chop Suey Recipe

Get ready for a classic easy recipe, one-pot meal perfect for weeknight dinners. American Chop Suey is a favorite in New England. It mixes ground beef, veggies, and macaroni in a tasty tomato sauce. This homemade dish will quickly become a family favorite.

The secret to this recipe is the right mix of ingredients. We use ground beef and pork for the meat. Then, we add diced onions, green peppers, and garlic for flavor. Crushed tomatoes, herbs, and Worcestershire sauce make the sauce that coats everything.

This recipe is special because it’s simple and flexible. You need just a few tools and less than 30 minutes to prepare. It’s also easy to adjust to your family’s liking.

American Chop Suey Ingredients

Now, let’s follow the easy steps and start cooking! This one-pot meal will soon be a staple in your home.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making the perfect American Chop Suey is easy and fun. It’s a great example of one-pot cooking. This dish is simple to make, so you can enjoy a tasty meal without much effort.

Preparing the Base

Begin by browning the ground beef in a big pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook the beef until it’s no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Then, add the diced onions and cook for another 8 minutes until they’re soft.

Combining Components

  1. Next, mince the garlic and add it to the pot, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Then, add the three tomato products: diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well.
  3. Add the uncooked macaroni pasta and broth or water. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Lower the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 20-25 minutes. The pasta should be tender by then.

Final Touches

After the pasta is done, taste the American Chop Suey. Add salt, pepper, or spices if needed. For extra flavor, top it with shredded cheese and broil until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

By following these steps, you can make a comforting and tasty American Chop Suey. It’s perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner.

American Chop Suey Recipe Variations and Substitutions

American Chop Suey is a beloved comfort food that can be made in many ways. You can change the protein, add different veggies, or make it fit special diets. This dish is very flexible.

Try using turkey, pork, chicken, or plant-based meats instead of ground beef. Each choice brings a new taste and health benefits. You can also add different bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to change the flavor.

For cheese lovers, try mozzarella, Parmesan, or cheddar to make it creamier. Adding chili powder or paprika gives it a spicy twist. You can also use other pasta shapes like Orecchiette or small shells.

recipe variations

These options let you make American Chop Suey your own. You can make it heartier or lighter, depending on what you like. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed in many ways.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Making the perfect American Chop Suey is about the little things. Chef advice says a few key tips can make your dish a hit. These tips will help you get recipe success and delicious cooking tips every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Failing to brown the ground beef thoroughly: Browning the beef first is crucial for developing rich, savory flavors in the dish.
  2. Not draining excess fat: After browning the beef, be sure to drain any excess fat to prevent the final dish from becoming greasy.
  3. Overcooking the pasta: Carefully monitor the pasta cooking time to avoid ending up with mushy, overcooked noodles.
  4. Not adjusting liquid levels: Keep an eye on the consistency and add more beef broth or water as needed to achieve your desired texture.

Pro Chef Suggestions

  • Season in layers: Build depth of flavor by seasoning the dish at multiple stages, from the browned beef to the final touches.
  • Let it rest before serving: After cooking, allow the American Chop Suey to rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  • Experiment with ingredient substitutions: Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a twist on the classic.
Cooking Time Serving Size Calories per Serving
30 minutes 4 people 590 kcal

“The key to perfect American Chop Suey is all about layering the flavors and paying attention to the details. Browning the beef, managing the liquid levels, and letting the dish rest are essential for achieving that signature comfort food taste.”

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping your American chop suey fresh is key. Follow these easy steps to keep your leftovers tasty and ready to go. This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of this New England classic whenever you want.

Storing Leftovers

Put leftover American chop suey in an airtight container and chill it for 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors in and stops the dish from drying out. Don’t let leftovers sit at room temperature for over two hours, as it can cause bacteria to grow.

Freezing American chop suey for a long time isn’t a good idea. The pasta gets mushy and loses its texture when thawed. For the best taste, eat your leftovers within a few days after making the dish.

Reheating Instructions

  • On the Stovetop: Put leftover chop suey in a covered skillet or saucepan. Heat it over low heat, stirring now and then, until it’s hot all the way through.
  • In the Microwave: Put individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in 30-second bursts until it’s warm enough.

Whether you reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stir the leftovers well before serving. This makes sure the heat spreads evenly. Your American chop suey will be hot and ready to enjoy.

leftovers

By sticking to these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your homemade American chop suey for days. You’ll know you’re keeping the quality and taste of this beloved dish just right.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

American chop suey is a versatile dish that goes well with many sides and garnishes. Try it with garlic bread, cornbread, or flaky biscuits for a tasty combo. For a healthier option, pair it with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or sautéed greens.

Side Dish Options

  • Garlic bread
  • Cornbread
  • Biscuits
  • Green salad
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Sautéed greens

Garnish Ideas

Enhance your American chop suey with different garnishes. Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil, grated cheese, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a crispy touch, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs on top and broil until golden.

  • Fresh herbs (parsley, basil)
  • Grated cheese
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Buttered breadcrumbs

These sides and garnishes will make your American chop suey a hit. It turns a simple weeknight meal into a satisfying and complete dining experience.

Conclusion

American Chop Suey is a family-friendly meal loved by many. It’s a mix of Italian-American and New England flavors. This makes it a comforting and nostalgic choice for dinner.

It’s perfect for a cozy night in or bringing back childhood memories. You can adjust the ingredients to your liking. This makes it easy for anyone to cook, no matter their skill level.

The dish’s lasting popularity shows its true value as a comfort food classic. Knowing its history adds to the joy of making it. So, get ready to cook up a delicious American Chop Suey for your family.

FAQ

What is American chop suey made of?

American chop suey is a pasta dish made with elbow macaroni, ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and a tomato-based sauce, often seasoned with garlic and herbs.

What’s the difference between goulash and American chop suey?

The main difference is regional: American chop suey uses macaroni and has a tomato-based sauce, while goulash (particularly Hungarian goulash) is a stew made with beef, vegetables, and paprika, often served over noodles or potatoes.

What are the ingredients of chop suey?

Traditional chop suey (Chinese-American style) includes stir-fried vegetables like bean sprouts, celery, and cabbage, along with meat (chicken, beef, or pork) in a savory sauce, served over rice or noodles.

What is the difference between American and Chinese chop suey?

American chop suey is a pasta-based casserole dish, while Chinese chop suey is a stir-fried dish with vegetables, meat, and a savory sauce served over rice or noodles. The former is Italian-inspired, and the latter is rooted in Chinese-American cuisine.

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