When a family favorite cooks on the stove, the kitchen feels warm. The secret ingredient is always the memories. This easy American Chop Suey recipe is more than food; it’s a bowl of comfort. Each bite feels like a hug from home. It’s perfect for both new and experienced cooks. Mixing lean ground beef, soft elbow macaroni, and tasty tomato soup makes for a quick, delicious meal. In just 5 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, this classic dish brings New England flavors to your table. It serves 4 to 6 people, adding just a bit of salt and pepper.
Let’s forget the busy world for a moment with this simple recipe. It’s the times we spend around the table, enjoying American Chop Suey, that truly matter.
Key Takeaways
- An American Chop Suey recipe that epitomizes comfort food.
- Easy recipe designed for home cooks at any skill level.
- Combines familiar ingredients like ground beef, elbow macaroni, and tomato soup.
- Prep and cook in 30 minutes for a quick, satisfying meal.
- Personalize with seasoning for a classic touch.
- Enjoy a taste of New England with each heartwarming serving.
What is American Chop Suey?
Often called the classic chop suey of America or even the american goulash recipe, American Chop Suey is iconic in New England. It’s a hearty dish that mixes pasta, ground beef, and tomato sauce. Despite its name suggesting Asian roots, it’s a true American classic that brings back memories of family meals.
The dish shines in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for New England baked pasta lovers, offering comfort in every bite. Whether at a diner or made at home, it can be personalized with various toppings and spices. This makes it perfect for gatherings, uniting people over food.
American Chop Suey’s history is a tale of cultural mixing, turning a simple noodle dish into a regional favorite. For those looking to give traditional pasta a twist, check out the Easy American Chop Suey Recipe. It’s a simple way to enjoy this classic, but in the form of a soup.
Gathering Ingredients for Your American Chop Suey
The journey to a delicious American pasta casserole starts with the right ingredients. Each choice, from the base to the garnish, defines the dish’s taste and texture.
The Foundation: Pasta and Ground Beef
For the core of your casserole, get some uncooked elbow macaroni and lean ground beef. This mix doesn’t just fill you up; it’s also a great protein source.
Fresh and Flavorful Veggies
Throw in onions, green peppers, and celery for crunch and freshness. They lift the dish’s taste without overwhelming the main stars.
The Secret is in the Sauce: Tomato Ingredients
A strong sauce ties everything together. Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes make it rich and tangy. It’s what makes a beef and macaroni casserole special.
Cheesy Delights: Optional Add-Ins
If you love cheese, add some shredded cheddar. Shred it from a block for the best melt. It makes the casserole creamy and flavorful.
Cooking Steps for an Easy Meal
Start by boiling macaroni for your one-pot pasta bake. Cook it until just al dente, which gives it the perfect bite. At the same time, brown the ground beef with onions in a separate pan.
After browning the beef, get rid of extra fat to keep your meal healthy. Now’s the time to mix in tomato paste and seasonings. This step builds a delicious base for your one-pot pasta bake. Using top-quality hamburger meat makes it even better.
Mix the al dente macaroni and beef together in the skillet next. Add cheddar cheese now if you like it cheesy. This makes sure the cheese blends in well. Stir well, so every spoonful is yummy.
Making a one-pot pasta bake is about easy clean-up and great taste. It lets flavors combine as they cook. Serve it hot from the pot. It’s a warm, filling dish perfect for any night.
Versatile Methods: Stove Top, Crock Pot & Instant Pot
Learn how to make an easy American Chop Suey recipe your own way. You can go fast on the stove top or take it slow with a Crock Pot or Instant Pot. Each method fits different schedules and tastes perfectly.
Effortless One-Pot Method
On the stove top, everything goes into one pot. Flavors blend as they cook together. It’s a quick, easy way to make a filling meal.
Slow-Cooked Comfort: The Crock Pot Approach
If you like hands-off cooking, Crock Pot American chop suey is perfect. Slow cooking brings out the flavors and tenderizes ingredients. Here’s how you do it:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | Brown first, then add to pot |
| Tomato Sauce | 2 cups | Mix with other liquids |
| Broth | 1 cup (halved) | Add initially |
| Macaroni | 2 cups | Add last, cook until tender |
| Cheese (Optional) | To taste | Stir in at end of cooking |
Quick and Convenient: Transforming into an Instant Pot Delight
The Instant Pot American goulash cuts cooking time. It combines speed with rich taste. Perfect for a fast and tasty dinner. It cooks under high pressure in 5 minutes. This means less work for a great meal.
Want to try something healthy and easy? Check out a tasty vegetarian “Beans & Greens” recipe. It’s good for you and simple to make.
Pro Tips for the Perfect American Chop Suey Recipe
Creating the perfect American chop suey is more than just mixing stuff. It’s about the precise way you do it and knowing how flavors blend. Here are tips on seasoning, sauce thickness, and melting cheese right. These steps will make your meal unforgettable.
The Right Seasonings for Authentic Flavor
Choosing the right seasoning is key for that authentic taste. Use Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and a bit of garlic powder. Italian seasoning offers a herbal taste, seasoned salt makes it savory, and garlic powder adds warmth.
Sauce Consistency Mastery
The sauce is crucial in American chop suey, tying everything together. For thick sauce that sticks to pasta and meat, add flour to the beef. Or, mix in cream cheese at the end for a creamy touch. This gives the sauce a rich taste and feel.
Cheese Melting Techniques
How you melt cheese matters a lot. Use cheese shredded from a block instead of pre-shredded to get smooth, even melting. Let the cheese warm to room temperature before adding it to the hot mixture. This keeps the cheese from clumping, giving you a creamy dish.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Effect on Dish |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Seasoning | Flavor Foundation | Adds herbal notes |
| Seasoned Salt | Enhance Savoriness | Boosts overall flavor profile |
| Garlic Powder | Aromatic Accent | Introduces warm, spicy undertones |
| Flour/Cream Cheese | Thickening Agent | Improves sauce consistency |
| Freshly Shredded Cheese | Texture & Creaminess | Ensures smooth, even melting |
Check out a detailed guide for more tips on making this comfort food. It has more advice and ideas to perfect your American chop suey.
Nutrition Profile of American Chop Suey
Looking into beefaroni casserole nutrition and healthy American pasta casseroles, we find American Chop Suey. It’s a mix of enjoyment and health benefits. Understanding its nutritional value is key.
This casserole gives you about 30 grams of protein per serving. Protein is crucial for fixing and growing muscles. It also has iron, which helps carry oxygen in the body, and vitamin C, boosting your immune system. But, it’s high in carbs and sodium too.
To make a healthier American pasta casserole, adding more veggies can up the fiber and lower calories. Choosing low-sodium broth or tomato sauce cuts down sodium. This keeps the dish tasty but healthier.
Getting to know the beefaroni casserole nutrition matters for those who love it but want to stay balanced. With some tweaks, American Chop Suey can be both delicious and guilt-free.
Serving Suggestions for American Chop Suey
Serving American chop suey right can make it a complete, tasty meal. You can keep it simple or go gourmet with wine pairings. There are plenty of side dishes to make the meal even better.
Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal
Choose classic sides to bring out the best in American chop suey. A crisp salad or warm garlic bread are great choices. They balance the hearty, tomato-rich main dish. For a bit of crunch, try steamed veggies. They add color and nutrients.
Wine Pairings for Gourmet Touch
Picking the right wine can turn the meal into something special. A medium-bodied red like Merlot works well. It matches the tomato sauce’s tang without hiding the beef and pasta flavors. If white wine is more your thing, a strong Chardonnay pairs nicely, offering brightness.
| Side Dish | Wine Pairing | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Green Salad | Chardonnay | Light and crisp, enhances freshness |
| Garlic Bread | Merlot | Rich and mellow, complements the garlic |
| Steamed Vegetables | Riesling | A touch of sweetness to contrast the savory dish |
Trying a one-pan American chop suey from this site or adding more flavors is fun. With smart choices for sides and wines, any meal can be amazing. Even a simple dish like American chop suey shines with the right flavors. And if you love gourmet food, exploring French cuisine can give you more great ideas for delicious meals.
Customizing Your American Chop Suey to Taste
Make your American chop suey stand out by trying different ingredients. You can adjust it to match your taste and health needs. Want more protein, veggies, or spice? There are endless ways to change it up.
Incorporate a Variety of Proteins
Add different proteins to improve taste and nutrition. Try using ground turkey, Italian sausage, or plant-based options. These can make your dish rich in protein and give it a unique flavor.
Vegetable Add-Ins for a Healthier Twist
Adding a variety of vegetables can make your meal more colorful and nutritious. Consider peas, bell peppers, and carrots. They work well with the tomato sauce, making your dish healthier and tastier.
Spicing Things Up: Adjusting Heat Levels
If you like your food spicy, adjusting the spice level can make a big difference. Use red chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy their meal just the way they like it.
| Ingredient | Type | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Sausage | Protein | Rich flavor, added texture |
| Carrots | Vegetable | Color, sweetness, vitamins |
| Red Chili Flakes | Spice | Heat, enhances metabolism |
| Jalapeños | Spice | Intense heat, bold flavor |
Conclusion
American chop suey has been a favorite in homes, making meal times special. It’s a mix of soft pasta, tasty ground beef, and rich tomato sauce. It stands for easy, one-pot cooking that celebrates America’s kitchen traditions. This dish is loved everywhere, from busy cities to peaceful countryside.
It doesn’t matter how you cook it—on the stove, in a Crock Pot, or an Instant Pot. This dish fits into your life perfectly. It’s great for a quick dinner or a slow weekend meal. American chop suey is versatile and always comforting.
American chop suey is part of the great food story of America. It brings not just food but comfort to the table. If you want a full meal, add baked beans for more protein and fiber. For those who love cooking, making homemade baked beans is a great idea. It’s a tasty way to dive into American home cooking and bring extra coziness to your meals.
FAQ
What exactly is American Chop Suey?
What are the staple ingredients needed for American Chop Suey?
Are there different methods to cook American Chop Suey?
Can I customize the American Chop Suey recipe?
How do I ensure my cheese melts properly in the American Chop Suey?
What are some serving suggestions for American Chop Suey?
What is the nutritional profile of an American Chop Suey serving?
How long does it take to prepare and cook American Chop Suey?
How do I adjust the sauce consistency for my American Chop Suey?
Is American Chop Suey suitable for meal prep or freezing?
Source Links
- https://thecozycook.com/american-chop-suey/ – American Chop Suey (American Goulash)
- https://www.facebook.com/TheCozyCook/posts/this-classic-american-chop-suey-recipe-is-easy-to-make-in-one-pot-the-crock-pot-/2829007037337762/ – 69K views · 355 reactions | American Chop Suey (American Goulash) | This Classic American Chop Suey Recipe is easy to make in One Pot, the Crock Pot, or the Instant Pot! The flavors blend together perfectly for a… | By The Cozy CookFacebook
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/18882/american-chop-suey-ii/ – American Chop Suey II
American Chop Suey Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 1 tbsp olive oil optional, for sautéing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving
Instructions
Cook the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat (if using). Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water (or beef broth), dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the Pasta:
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and cover the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat.