Easy Classic American Chop Suey: A Cozy, Comfort Recipe
Cooking in my kitchen can often feel like a high-stakes sitcom. Picture this: I’m juggling pans, a toddler’s questions, and a slightly anxious dog who’s convinced that every sizzle means food is about to hit the floor. As the chaos unfolds, there’s one dish that always finds a way to rescue my sanity: Classic American Chop Suey. It’s a recipe that brings back memories—more like nostalgic snapshots—of evenings spent with family, laden with laughter and generous helpings of food that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Now, let me paint you a picture of my first attempt at making Chop Suey. I was a wide-eyed novice, dreaming up a masterpiece. Instead, my kitchen turned into a tomato-sauced battlefield. I remember the smoke alarm going off when I forgot about the ground beef while I scrambled to chop the peppers. Rare kitchen disasters like this remind me that cooking is as much about the journey as it is about the outcome. And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way!
But here’s why this recipe matters to me: it’s easy, it’s comforting, and it’s versatile, meaning you can get creative (for better or worse!). The aroma of sautéed garlic & bell peppers wafts through the house, soothing the chaos. Whether the sun is setting outside or rain patters against the windows, this dish warms not just the belly but the heart. It’s the kind of comfort food that curates smiles, gathered around the table in the soft glow of evening light. I think of it as “healthy comfort food,” perfect for busy weeknights but hearty enough to warrant a second helping.
So, buckle up for a culinary adventure where I share my kitchen chaos and charm, leading you step-by-step through the joy that is Classic American Chop Suey.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick & Easy: Like I mentioned before, time is often a luxury. This recipe fits snugly into the category of easy weeknight dinners, ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish!
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Picky Eater Approved: You can throw almost anything into this pot (hello, one-pot meals!) without someone refusing to eat. It’s a miracle!
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Comforting & Filling: With its hearty mix of pasta, beef, and vegetables, it’s a high protein meal that feels both cozy and indulgent—like wearing your favorite oversized sweater.
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Meal Prep Win: Need to meal prep for the week? This dish stays fresh and tasty in the fridge for days! Plus, it’s budget-friendly, great for a wallet-friendly meal planning chicken week.
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Leftover Lover’s Dream: Honestly, Chop Suey might just taste better the next day. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or warm-up dinner, satisfying any subsequent hunger pangs.
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A Touch of Customization: Want to spice things up? You have the freedom to add or change ingredients based on what you have! Improvisation is the name of this culinary game.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
What’s truly special about Chop Suey is its unique blend of flavors and textures. The acidity from the tomatoes balances beautifully with the savory ground beef, while the elbow macaroni brings it all together with its chewiness. For me, it’s a dish that whispers warmth and nostalgia—a nod to family dinners that didn’t require any Michelin-starred skills.
The flavors develop as you cook, and you can’t help but sneak a spoonful (or three) while waiting for it to simmer. And if you’re feeling adventurous or need to spice up your protein intake, toss in some extra diced veggies or even beans for a twist. Or, if you’re feeling particularly bold, why not challenge yourself to pair it with an unexpected flavor like smoked paprika on a cozy weekend?
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated cheese for topping
Now, let’s talk about each ingredient!
The ground beef is the heart of this dish, providing that rich flavor and protein punch. I usually go for lean beef to keep it on the healthier side without skimping on that flavor. Just remember to drain off excess fat to prevent it swimming in grease.
Next up, onions and bell peppers—the dynamic duo of whole-hearted flavor! They sauté beautifully, bringing sweetness and texture to the mix. And pro-tip: if you’re not a fan of the texture of cooked onions, take it easy and finely chop them. Nobody wants to bite into an onion while digging into their cozy bowl.
Then, we have the garlic. The minute you start sautéing it with the onions and pepper, prepare for your home to smell divine. Honestly, it’s like a warm welcome mat for your taste buds!
The tomato sauce and diced tomatoes provide a comforting, seasoned base, while the beef broth ensures you have that luscious, saucy goodness. I usually use low-sodium broth to control salt content. It’s like the broth is giving the dish a cozy hug!
Finally, the elbow macaroni is what transforms this hearty meal into a filling dinner—the true comfort carbohydrate. A tip: never overcook the macaroni, or it’ll turn into mush. It takes about 15–20 minutes to achieve that just-right tender chewiness.
How to Make It Step-by-Step
Alright, friends! Let’s dive into how to whip this up step-by-step!
Step 1: Grab a large pot and get that heat going at medium. Toss in your ground beef and let it sizzle like a happy choir. I like to gently break it apart with a spatula; it feels oddly therapeutic. You want to cook it until it’s browned, and trust me, the smell will be enchanting!
Step 2: Once you’re satisfied with the beef (and it’s no longer pink—always a good rule to follow), drain off any excess fat. I mean, who wants a greasy meal? Not us!
Step 3: Now, add in your diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften. The vibrant colors remind me that I’m on the right culinary path. At this point, the aroma will lift your spirits, somehow even making the dog sit up a little straighter.
Step 4: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. This is where things get sunshiny and saucy! Season it with salt and pepper to taste—be generous but not too much, we’ll be adding noodles soon! Bring everything to a simmer, and let it bubble away.
Step 5: Here comes the part where I sometimes get a little too hopeful. Add in your elbow macaroni and let that simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the macaroni is evenly cooked and doesn’t clump into a sticky noodle mass (oops!).
Honestly, I once forgot about it for a few minutes, and let’s just say the noodles absorbed too much sauce. Remember: patience is key. You want it tender—and if there happens to be a delicious sauce still hanging around, that’s a bonus!
Step 6: Once the macaroni is ready and the entire mix is cozy, it’s time to serve it up! If you’re feeling extra, top it with some grated cheese for that melty goodness. I know I usually add way more cheese than I should, but who can resist?
Step 7: Enjoy it hot! Maybe snuggle down with a good movie (FYI: rom-coms and this dish go together like peanut butter and jelly).
Tips for Best Results
To be real, there are just a few small tricks I’ve picked up along the way that make a big difference while making Chop Suey:
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Don’t skip the garlic—it adds so much flavor.
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Stir regularly while the macaroni cooks: This prevents those little guys from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures they cook evenly.
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Taste as you go: Remember, you’re the chef here! Adjust any seasoning if things seem a little bland—your taste buds know best.
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If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some crushed red pepper for a kick!
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Feel free to personalize your Chop Suey! If you’re looking to swap things out, here are a few ideas:
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Pasta Type: Elbow macaroni is ideal, but you could use small shells, rotini, or even whole wheat options for a healthier lift.
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Ground meat alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken could work if you’d like to lighten things up. If you prefer to move to plant-based territory, try lentils or a meat alternative for a vegetarian take.
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Veggies: Experiment with zucchini, corn, or mushrooms. Seasonal vegetables can really jazz it up! Broccoli and spinach could also add nutritious value and seriously boost those high macro meals.
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Dairy-free options: For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Directions
- In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, or until macaroni is tender.
- Serve hot, topped with grated cheese if desired.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
Chop Suey pairs incredibly well with a simple side salad drizzled in vinaigrette. You could even serve some crusty garlic bread on the side to mop up that delicious sauce! And if you’re looking to sip something refreshing, a sparkling lemonade or even a lightly chilled iced tea would be perfect!
Honestly, this meal, a rom-com, and a cozy blanket sound like the perfect evening to me!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you happen to love this dish as much as I do, there will definitely be leftovers! Here’s how to properly store and reheat that deliciousness:
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Storing: Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: When the hunger pangs strike, warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen things up. You can also microwave it, but watch carefully to avoid the pasta overcooking—nobody wants mushy noodles!
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
Want to prep for those crazy nights ahead and simplify dinner?
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You can make Chop Suey ahead of time, let it cool completely, and then store it in the fridge for a few days.
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If you want to freeze it, let it cool, portion it into freezer bags, and it’ll stay good for up to 3 months! Just remember to label it.
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When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove or microwave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking the macaroni: Aim for al dente! A little chewiness is key.
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Sautéing at too high a heat: It might sound tempting, but that can lead to uneven cooking and burnt bits—trust me, nobody’s a fan of this.
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Not seasoning: Season as you go. A bland dish will disappoint your taste buds!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have beef broth? Can I use water instead?
While using water is an option, I highly recommend broth for that rich flavor. If you’re out of broth, consider using bouillon cubes.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative, and stick with vegetable broth instead of beef.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Wooden spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups
- Chef’s knife for chopping
- Cutting board
- Ladle for serving!
Final Thoughts
Classic American Chop Suey sits firmly in my comfort food hall of fame. It’s a meal that brings people together, and a dish that speaks to the heart (and stomach!). As you savor each spoonful, think about the moments you’ll create around the table—each bite filled with love, laughter, and perhaps a touch of culinary chaos.
So, whether you whip it up for a family gathering, a peaceful dinner for two, or a weekend cozy-in, you’ll experience the delightful charm of this magical meal. I can’t wait to hear about your kitchen adventures!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!
Classic American Chop Suey
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Lean beef is preferred for a healthier option.
- 1 medium onion, diced Finely chop if you don't prefer the texture.
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced Adds sweetness and texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 15 ounce can tomato sauce Provides a comforting, seasoned base.
- 1 15 ounce can diced tomatoes Adds acidity and flavor.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook until al dente.
- 2 cups beef broth Low-sodium broth is recommended.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season generously, but not overly.
- Optional grated cheese for topping Adds melty goodness.
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, or until macaroni is tender.
- Serve hot, topped with grated cheese if desired.
