American Chop Suey: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

by Jhon Lennon 52 views

Hey guys! Ever crave something super comforting, easy to make, and totally satisfying? Then you've gotta try American Chop Suey! It's not really chop suey in the traditional sense, but it’s a hearty, flavorful pasta dish that’s been a family favorite for generations. Think of it as a super-delicious, Americanized take on a classic. Let's dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can whip it up in your own kitchen.

What is American Chop Suey?

So, what exactly is American Chop Suey? Well, despite its name, it bears little resemblance to the Cantonese dish we know as chop suey. Instead, it’s a ground beef and macaroni casserole, simmered in a tomato-based sauce. It's a one-pot wonder, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies, spices, and even different types of ground meat. The origin of American Chop Suey is a bit murky, but it’s believed to have emerged in the northeastern United States, possibly in the late 19th or early 20th century. Some theories suggest it was created in Chinese restaurants to cater to American tastes, while others believe it was a home-cooked creation by thrifty families looking for inexpensive and satisfying meals. Regardless of its exact origins, American Chop Suey has become a beloved comfort food staple across the country, especially in New England. It's the kind of dish that evokes fond memories of childhood dinners and cozy family gatherings. The combination of ground beef, macaroni, and a tangy tomato sauce creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is both comforting and satisfying. It's also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking. Whether you prefer a sweeter sauce, a spicier kick, or a vegetarian version, American Chop Suey can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. So, if you're looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, give American Chop Suey a try. It's a dish that's sure to become a new family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

There are tons of reasons to adore this American Chop Suey recipe! First off, it's incredibly easy to make. Seriously, even if you're not a seasoned chef, you can totally nail this. It's all about browning some ground beef, throwing in some veggies, simmering it in a tomato sauce, and then mixing it with cooked macaroni. Boom! Dinner is served. Secondly, it's a budget-friendly meal. Ground beef and macaroni are pretty inexpensive, and you can use canned tomatoes and other pantry staples. This makes it a great option for feeding a family without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s super versatile. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, add different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or spice it up with some red pepper flakes. Make it your own! One of the best things about American Chop Suey is that it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors and hearty texture of this dish. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week. You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a large group or have leftovers for lunch. And speaking of leftovers, American Chop Suey tastes even better the next day! The flavors have had time to meld together, and the sauce thickens up, making it even more delicious. It's the perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights. In addition to its deliciousness and convenience, American Chop Suey is also a surprisingly nutritious meal. Ground beef provides a good source of protein, while the tomatoes and veggies offer essential vitamins and minerals. You can even sneak in some extra veggies, like spinach or kale, without anyone noticing. So, not only is it tasty, but it's also good for you! Whether you're a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good comfort food meal, American Chop Suey is a recipe that you'll want to keep in your back pocket. It's easy, affordable, versatile, and absolutely delicious. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our ingredients for this amazing American Chop Suey. Here’s what you'll need:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor!)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional, but highly recommended!)

Let's break down these ingredients a bit. The ground beef is the star of the show, providing a hearty and savory base for the dish. You can use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content, or even substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. The onion and green bell pepper add sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce. Feel free to experiment with other veggies, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots, to customize the dish to your liking. The garlic brings a pungent and aromatic note that complements the other flavors. Freshly minced garlic is always best, but you can also use garlic powder in a pinch. The crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce form the foundation of the tangy and flavorful sauce. Look for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results. The beef broth adds moisture and richness to the sauce. You can use homemade or store-bought broth, or even substitute it with water if needed. The Worcestershire sauce provides a savory and umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Don't skip this ingredient! The dried oregano and dried basil add a touch of Italian-inspired flavor. You can also use fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the dish to your liking. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The elbow macaroni is the classic pasta choice for American Chop Suey. You can use other types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, if you prefer. Grated Parmesan cheese is the perfect finishing touch, adding a salty and savory flavor that complements the other ingredients. So, there you have it – a simple yet flavorful list of ingredients that will transform into a delicious and comforting meal. Gather your supplies and get ready to create some magic in the kitchen!

How to Make American Chop Suey: Step-by-Step

Okay, let's get cooking! Here's how to make American Chop Suey, step by step:

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Don't overcook it, you want it al dente! Set aside once finished. Properly cooked macaroni is key to a great final texture. If it's too mushy, the whole dish suffers.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody likes a greasy chop suey! Use a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces while cooking.
  3. Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. These veggies add a layer of flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, they add some extra nutrients to your meal.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. This is where the magic happens. Letting the sauce simmer allows all the flavors to come together and create a rich, delicious base for the dish.
  5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the macaroni to absorb the sauce. Make sure everything is well combined. The pasta should be evenly coated in the sauce. This step is crucial for ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
  6. Serve: Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal! A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory finish that takes this dish to the next level. But hey, if you're not a cheese fan, feel free to skip it. The chop suey is delicious either way.

Tips and Tricks for the Best American Chop Suey

Want to make your American Chop Suey even better? Here are a few tips and tricks:

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: This makes a big difference in the overall flavor of the dish. Splurge on good quality canned tomatoes and fresh ground beef. Trust me, you'll taste the difference.
  • Don't Overcook the Macaroni: Nobody likes mushy pasta! Cook the macaroni al dente for the best texture.
  • Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish. Mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, and celery all work well.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. If you like things spicy, don't be afraid to experiment with different levels of heat. A little bit of chili powder can also add a nice depth of flavor.
  • Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled plant-based meat for a vegetarian version. You can also add extra veggies to make it even more filling.
  • Add Some Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese at the end for an extra cheesy and gooey dish. Cheese lovers, this one's for you! Just make sure to add the cheese after you've taken the dish off the heat to prevent it from becoming too stringy.
  • Let it Rest: Allow the chop suey to sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. Patience is key!
  • Make it Ahead: American Chop Suey is a great make-ahead meal. Simply prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to eat. It tastes even better the next day!

Variations to Try

The great thing about American Chop Suey is how versatile it is! Here are a few variations to try:

  • Spicy Chop Suey: Add some red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Cheesy Chop Suey: Stir in some shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese at the end for a cheesy and gooey delight.
  • Vegetarian Chop Suey: Replace the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or crumbled plant-based meat for a vegetarian-friendly option.
  • Pizza Chop Suey: Add some pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives to the sauce for a pizza-inspired twist.
  • Mexican Chop Suey: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and add some taco seasoning, corn, and black beans for a Mexican-inspired flavor.

Serving Suggestions

American Chop Suey is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to round out your dinner:

  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chop suey.
  • Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a healthy and colorful side dish.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a cool and tangy element to the meal.
  • Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing with comfort food dishes like chop suey.

Enjoy Your Homemade American Chop Suey!

So there you have it! A super easy, super delicious American Chop Suey recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. Get creative, experiment with different ingredients, and make it your own. Happy cooking, guys!