American Chop Suey holds a special place in the heart of classic American comfort cuisine, a humble yet hearty dish that has evolved through decades of family dinners and home-cooked memories. Originally inspired by the simple, accessible ingredients beloved by working-class families in the Northeastern United States, this recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with savory ground beef and tangy tomato sauce, creating a warm, nostalgic embrace of flavor and texture. Modern twists now elevate this iconic dish beyond expectation, inviting cooks to navigate tradition with creativity and boldness.

Prep and Cook Time

• Planning: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield

• Serves 6 generous portions

Difficulty Level

• Easy

Ingredients

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound lean ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and diced green bell pepper, sautéing for another 3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with aromatics. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Create the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: fold the cooked macaroni into the sauce gently until all pasta is coated and heated through, about 2 minutes.
6. Finish with cheese: Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top.Cover the skillet with a lid for 3-5 minutes on low heat to allow the cheese to melt into a luscious blanket.
7. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting melding of flavors and textures.

tips for Success

• Texture perfection: Ensure macaroni is cooked just al dente to maintain a pleasant bite after simmering in the sauce.
• Flavor layering: Browning the meat well and allowing the sauce to simmer long enough encourages deep, rich flavors.
• Vegetable variations: Add diced mushrooms or zucchini for extra heartiness without overpowering the classic taste.
• Make-ahead magic: This dish reheats beautifully. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for easy future meals.
• Cheese alternatives: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack to create a different melty experience.
• Season gradually: Taste frequently when seasoning so you can adjust salt and spices perfectly.

Creative Twists to elevate the Classic

For those inspired to reinvent this comfort food favorite, try stirring in roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Incorporating a dollop of creamy ricotta on top before serving adds pleasing creaminess. Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey or plant-based crumbles to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing heartiness.

serving suggestions

Present this dish in a rustic cast-iron skillet or a deep, wide ceramic bowl to emphasize its homestyle roots. A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances richness perfectly, while crusty garlic bread invites sopping up every last bit of sauce. Garnishing with freshly torn basil leaves and a light dusting of Parmesan can add an unexpected fresh finish.

For more hearty and satisfying meals, check out our collection of classic American casseroles. To dive deeper into the history of American comfort foods, visit the Smithsonian Magazine’s food history section.

Q&A

Q&A: American Chop Suey – A Classic Comfort Dish with a Twist

Q1: What exactly is American Chop Suey?
A1: Despite its name, american Chop Suey isn’t related to the traditional Chinese chop suey. It’s a hearty, comforting American pasta casserole made from elbow macaroni, ground beef, onions, green peppers, and a savory tomato sauce. It’s a nostalgic dish that’s been a staple on family tables across the United States for generations.Q2: Where did the name “American Chop Suey” come from?
A2: The name is a bit of a playful mystery. Some say it was coined during the early 20th century to describe a quick, mixed-up dish that resembled the eclectic nature of Chinese chop suey, but with all-american ingredients. Essentially, it’s a “melting pot” in a bowl-a simple, satisfying scramble of familiar flavors.

Q3: What’s the twist in this classic comfort dish?
A3: While the traditional recipe is beloved for its simplicity, modern cooks are adding inventive twists-like swapping ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take, incorporating unexpected veggies like zucchini or mushrooms, or blending in a dash of smoked paprika or fresh herbs for an extra flavor punch. The twist keeps this dish fresh yet familiar.

Q4: Is american Chop Suey easy to prepare?
A4: Absolutely! It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Brown the meat, sauté the veggies, mix in the pasta and sauce, then simmer until everything melds beautifully. It’s comfort food that doesn’t require a lot of fuss or fancy ingredients.

Q5: Can American Chop Suey be made vegetarian?
A5: Definitely! By substituting the ground meat with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or a medley of sautéed mushrooms and beans, you can create a rich, satisfying vegetarian version. The tomato sauce and spices do the heavy lifting, so the dish remains hearty and flavorful without meat.

Q6: What sides or accompaniments pair well with American Chop Suey?
A6: Crisp green salads, buttery garlic bread, or steamed seasonal vegetables complement the richness of american Chop Suey beautifully. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top-like sharp cheddar or zingy Parmesan-adds an extra touch of indulgence.

Q7: Why has American Chop Suey endured as a comfort food favorite?
A7: Its enduring appeal lies in its perfect balance of simple ingredients, hearty nourishment, and the cozy feelings it evokes. It’s food that feels like a warm hug on a plate-easy to personalize,endlessly satisfying,and timelessly comforting.

To Conclude

Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic taste of home or an inviting canvas for culinary creativity, American Chop Suey delivers comfort with every forkful. This beloved dish,rooted in simplicity yet open to countless twists,reminds us that great food often thrives in the balance between tradition and innovation. So next time you crave a warm, hearty meal, consider giving this classic a whirl-because sometimes, the best comfort lies in rediscovering old favorites with a fresh spin.