American Chop Suey: The Incredible Ultimate 7-Ingredient Recipe

American Chop Suey is a delightful dish that has long been a staple in many American households. This incredible recipe combines pasta, beef, and a rich tomato sauce that creates a comforting and satisfying meal. With a perfect balance of flavors, this dish is not only easy to make but also brings a warm sense of nostalgia for those who grew up enjoying it. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, American Chop Suey is an amazing choice.
If you’re wondering what makes American Chop Suey so special, it’s the simplicity and heartiness it provides. The blend of tender pasta smothered in a zesty tomato sauce and mixed with seasoned ground beef creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Additionally, it’s a versatile dish that allows for the inclusion of various vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste.
Now, let’s discover the marvelous features of this recipe, how to prepare it, and tips on serving it perfectly for any occasion. You’ll soon understand why American Chop Suey has won the hearts of many!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

American Chop Suey stands out for several reasons. Here’s why you’ll want to add this recipe to your cooking repertoire:
1. Quick Preparation: Total prep and cooking time is usually under 30 minutes.
2. Few Ingredients: With just seven core ingredients, this dish is budget-friendly.
3. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this savory, comforting dish.
4. Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: It stores well in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for future meals.
6. One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required, making it a perfect option for busy nights.
7. Comforting Flavors: The rich tomato sauce paired with ground beef offers a classic comfort food experience.
With these appealing qualities in mind, you’ll find that making American Chop Suey is not just easy—it’s a joy!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating a delicious American Chop Suey is a quick endeavor. Here’s the breakdown of the time you’ll need:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
This speedy process makes it ideal for individuals or families with busy schedules but who still crave a hearty meal.

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped (green or red)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups elbow macaroni (dry)
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making American Chop Suey is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious outcome:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up as it cooks, and season with salt and pepper. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

5. Incorporate Broth: Pour in the beef broth. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet. Stir until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and heated through.

7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.

8. Serve Warm: Remove from heat, and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

How to Serve

To enhance the experience of enjoying American Chop Suey, consider the following serving tips:
1. Presentation: Transfer the dish to a large serving bowl. This communal style encourages sharing.

2. Toppings: Sprinkle with shredded cheese or fresh parsley right before serving for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

3. Pair with Sides: Serve alongside garlic bread or a simple salad. This balances the meal and offers refreshing flavors.

4. Portion Control: Offer generous but manageable portions. This encourages guests to enjoy the dish without feeling overwhelmed.
By taking these steps to serve American Chop Suey, you’ll create a delightful dining experience for yourself and your family. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Good-quality ground beef and fresh vegetables can elevate the taste of your American Chop Suey.
– Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
– Add Spice: For a little kick, consider sprinkling in red pepper flakes or using a zesty tomato sauce.

Recipe Variations

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your American Chop Suey! Here are some variations to explore:
1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based grounds for a hearty vegetarian dish.
2. Cheese Lovers: Stir in some cream cheese or ricotta before serving for a creamy texture.
3. Spicy Version: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or diced green chilies for an extra spicy kick.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: This dish freezes well for future meals. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Special Equipment

To prepare American Chop Suey, you’ll need the following essential kitchen tools:
– Large pot for cooking the pasta
– Large skillet for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables
– Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
– Colander for draining pasta

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
What if I can’t find crushed tomatoes?
Diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute. Just mash them slightly before adding to the dish.
Is American Chop Suey gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta alternatives.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in portions until heated through.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.

Conclusion

American Chop Suey stands as a classic comfort food that easily adapts to your culinary preferences. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or venture into creative modifications, this dish promises a fulfilling experience with every bite. Its ease of preparation, quick cook time, and wholesome ingredients make it a go-to recipe for families and gatherings alike. Embrace the flavors and share the joy of American Chop Suey with loved ones!

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