American Chop Suey

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Comfort food doesn’t get more nostalgic than a hot, hearty bowl of American Chop Suey. This all-in-one skillet meal is a classic New England dish that’s beloved for its simplicity, bold flavors, and satisfying texture. Tender elbow macaroni is tossed in a rich, savory tomato-based meat sauce with ground beef, sweet onions, and crisp green bell peppers, all simmered together into one cohesive, crave-worthy dish.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cold evenings, this meal strikes a perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and endlessly customizable—add cheese, spice it up, or sneak in extra veggies. Either way, it’s bound to become a staple in your comfort food lineup.

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Why You’ll Love This American Chop Suey

• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, less mess—what’s not to love?
• Weeknight Friendly: Ready in under an hour with ingredients you probably already have.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike devour this classic with zero complaints.
• Customizable: Vegetarian? Swap the meat. Low-carb? Try zucchini noodles.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for a future lazy dinner night.
• Rich in Flavor: Between the seasoned beef and the tangy tomato sauce, every bite is bursting with savory goodness.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and Their Importance)

To make American Chop Suey efficiently and mess-free, having the right tools on hand makes a world of difference. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool matters:

• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: This is your MVP. A deep, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven allows for even cooking and holds all the ingredients in one place for the perfect one-pot meal.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for browning meat and stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware.
• Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Precision is key when chopping onions, peppers, and garlic. A sharp knife speeds things up and reduces the risk of injury.
• Colander: To drain the macaroni once it’s al dente. Make sure to shake it well—extra water can dilute your sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep the flavors balanced. Eyeballing ingredients can sometimes go wrong, especially with spices or liquids.

Having everything prepped and within arm’s reach will streamline the process and make the cooking experience enjoyable.

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Preparation Tips

• Mise en Place: Chop all vegetables and measure your spices before you start cooking. It keeps the flow smooth and stress-free.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: You’ll simmer the macaroni in the sauce later, so avoid overcooking it in the initial boil. Slight firmness keeps it from turning mushy.
• Drain Ground Beef If Needed: If using higher-fat beef, drain excess grease after browning to prevent an oily sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic and Onion: These aromatics add incredible depth of flavor—don’t skip or substitute them with powder if you can help it.
• Simmer for Flavor: After adding tomatoes and seasonings, let the mixture simmer for a bit to deepen the flavors before combining with the pasta.

Preparation doesn’t have to be complicated, but attention to these small details really elevates the final dish.

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Ingredients for This American Chop Suey

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this comforting dish together. These ingredients are easy to find and probably already in your pantry or fridge:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing if needed)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a deeper flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
• 1 1/2 cups water or beef broth (for simmering)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances the acidity of the tomatoes)
• Optional: shredded cheddar or mozzarella (for topping before serving)

Feel free to tweak quantities or substitute items based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain well and set aside. The pasta will continue to cook slightly in the sauce later.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil if needed, then brown the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it off.

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Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

To the same pan with the cooked beef, add diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until vegetables soften. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

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Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Then add diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

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Step 5: Simmer the Mixture

Pour in the water or beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.

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Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the drained elbow macaroni to the skillet and stir to fully coat in the sauce. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the pasta has absorbed some of the sauce.

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Step 7: Optional Cheese Finish

If you like a cheesy touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before serving. Cover the pan for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.

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Step 8: Serve

Spoon into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

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Notes

• Use Broth for Extra Flavor: Swapping water with beef broth in the sauce adds an extra savory boost that makes the dish richer.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a kick.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day. You can cook it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
• Double It for a Crowd: American Chop Suey is excellent for potlucks and gatherings—just double the ingredients and use a larger pot.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you boil the macaroni too long before adding it to the sauce, it can become mushy by the end. Stick to al dente.
• Not Draining Excess Fat: Leaving too much grease from the beef can make the sauce oily and heavy.
• Skipping the Simmer: Rushing through the simmering phase shortens the time for flavors to develop, resulting in a flat-tasting dish.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Since the sauce is tomato-forward, canned tomatoes matter. Go for a good brand to avoid bitterness or watery results.
• Adding Cheese Too Soon: If you add cheese before the dish has finished cooking, it can get stringy or stick to the pan. Wait until the end.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go—underseasoned sauce will dull the whole meal.

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What to Serve With American Chop Suey?

While American Chop Suey is hearty enough to stand on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal and add balance. From crisp salads to buttery breads, here are some tasty options:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for sopping up that delicious tomato sauce.
2. Simple Green Salad – A refreshing mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Adds a nutritious, fiber-packed green element without stealing the spotlight.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Try carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and herbs for a colorful side.
5. Coleslaw – A cool and creamy contrast to the warm and savory pasta. Tangy slaw balances the dish well.
6. Buttery Dinner Rolls – Soft, warm rolls are ideal for those who want a little extra comfort on the side.
7. Pickled Vegetables – Adds a zingy bite that pairs surprisingly well with the deep flavors of the beefy sauce.
8. Cucumber and Tomato Salad – Light and refreshing with a dash of olive oil and vinegar—perfect for a summer version of this dish.

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Storage Instructions

American Chop Suey stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for leftovers, meal prep, or freezing. Here’s how to store it right:

• Refrigerator: Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: Let the dish cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tip: Always stir well and heat until hot all the way through (165°F or 74°C internal temperature). You can also add a little shredded cheese on top before microwaving for a cheesy finish.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — Approx. 6 Servings)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 7g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 640mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on exact ingredients used and serving size.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is American Chop Suey the same as goulash?

Not exactly. While they’re similar, American Chop Suey is a New England term for what’s more widely called “American goulash.” Both feature macaroni, ground beef, and tomato sauce, but regional variations exist in seasoning and preparation.

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2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or use lentils, mushrooms, or tofu crumbles for a satisfying vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

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3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use rotini, shells, or penne. Just aim for small to medium shapes that hold sauce well.

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4. How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook it until just al dente and avoid over-simmering once it’s added to the sauce. Also, don’t leave it sitting in the pan for too long after cooking.

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5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or drying out.

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6. Can I add cheese inside the dish instead of on top?

Yes! Stir shredded cheese directly into the pasta and sauce for a creamy, cheesy version. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even Parmesan work great.

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7. Is this freezer-friendly?

Very much so. Just be sure to cool it fully before freezing and store in an airtight container. It reheats well and makes an easy future meal.

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8. Can I make this in advance for a party or potluck?

Definitely. Cook it the day before, refrigerate, and reheat it in the oven or stovetop before serving. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

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Conclusion

American Chop Suey is the kind of dish that brings comfort to the table with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Its nostalgic roots, hearty ingredients, and make-ahead friendliness make it a go-to recipe for families, busy weeknights, and casual gatherings. Whether you’re sticking to the classic version or putting your own spin on it, this all-in-one pasta dish is destined to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

Warm, filling, and full of flavor—it’s American comfort food at its best.

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