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Imagine this: making American Chop Suey for my Baltimore-bred husband was an exciting adventure. He had never experienced the deliciousness of this dish before. Even though I’m also a Baltimore native, I was puzzled as to why it was such an unfamiliar concept to him. Picture this mouthwatering creation - tender pasta, flavorful tomato sauce, and savory ground steak, coming together to create an irresistible weeknight dinner that will make you want to add it to your regular rotation.
After researching the dish further, I discovered that American chop suey is a native dish of New England cuisine, where my family roots began. The hubs recognized the dish but didn’t have a name for it. Regardless, this comfort food is perfect for quick, hearty, and satisfying meals. I’ve adjusted the recipe to teach you how to make American chop suey for a family of four. Leftovers taste great and can even be made ahead and reheated. Trust me, this is the best American chop suey recipe ever!
Serve with a kale salad, or try this spinach fruit salad! Or make some artichokes or prepare a green veggie of your choice, to balance the meal.
What is American Chop Suey?
American Chop Suey is a classic comfort food dish that has warmed the hearts and homes of many across the United States, particularly in the New England region. This hearty meal features savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, flavorful, robust tomato sauce. The combination of these ingredients creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious, and appeals to both kids and adults. Often served hot and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, American Chop Suey is a staple in many American households, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Reasons to Love this Recipe
- It's hearty and satisfying
- Comes together with easy-to-find ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep
- Kid-friendly and approved
Origins and History
American Chop Suey boasts a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originating in the New England region, this dish was a go-to for families seeking a comforting and affordable meal. The recipe was often passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist and ingredients. Over time, American Chop Suey spread beyond New England, becoming a beloved dish throughout the United States. Its adaptability and ease of preparation have led to various regional variations and interpretations, making it a true American classic.
What's the Difference Between Chop Suey and American Chop Suey?
Chop suey and American chop suey are two distinct dishes that share a name but differ significantly in ingredients and preparation.
Chop Suey is a traditional Chinese-American dish that typically consists of stir-fried meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork, combined with a variety of Chinese vegetables like bean sprouts, bok choy, and water chestnuts. The dish is usually seasoned with soy sauce and served over rice or noodles. The sauce in chop suey is often light and savory, featuring a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and meat.
American Chop Suey, on the other hand, is a classic American comfort food with roots in New England cuisine. It is made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a robust tomato sauce, which may include ingredients like diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Unlike its Chinese counterpart, American chop suey is more of a pasta dish, often topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and sometimes baked with mozzarella cheese for a cheesy finish. While chop suey focuses on the stir-fry technique, American chop suey is more akin to a casserole or pasta dish, offering a hearty and satisfying meal.
Chop suey is a Chinese-inspired dish with a focus on stir-fried vegetables and meat, while American chop suey is a pasta-based dish with ground beef and tomato sauce, representing a fusion of flavors that has become a staple in American households.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Macaroni - Use elbow macaroni for a traditional American chop suey recipe. Cooking the pasta according to package instructions is crucial for the dish. I’ve also used Orecchiette pasta instead in the past and it also tasted great.
Aromatics, Veggies, and Seasonings - You’ll need onion, garlic, mushrooms, green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, fresh oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Tomatoes - This recipe for American chop suey calls for tomatoes in several different forms. Use crushed, diced, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and a can of V-8 juice to create the sauce.
Ground Steak - You could also use simple ground beef or cooked ground beef, but I find that 90% lean ground steak tastes even better.
Honey - Add a tablespoon of our Bee Inspired Honey for a subtle hint of sweetness.
Optional Ingredient - For a rich, creamy texture, consider adding mozzarella cheese. Bake the dish until the cheese is bubbly and golden for an enhanced comfort food appeal.
How to Make American Chop Suey
One: Cook the macaroni
Follow the instructions on the package to cook the macaroni to your preferred pasta texture. Drain it and set it aside.
Two: Sauté the onion, garlic, and vegetables
Heat olive oil over medium in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown, then add the garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook until the veggies are soft.
Three: Brown the ground beef
In a separate sauté pan, brown the cooked ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon as you go to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess grease and then add the meat to the vegetables.
Four: Add the sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, V-8 juice, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and honey and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer for 12-15 minutes.
Five: Assemble the American chop suey recipe
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix to heat through. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and some Parmesan cheese to serve. Enjoy!
Serving and Presentation
When it comes to serving American Chop Suey, simplicity is key. This dish is typically served hot, straight from the pot or oven, ensuring that every bite is warm and comforting. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or a dash of paprika for added flavor and visual appeal. American Chop Suey can be enjoyed as a main course, paired with a side salad or garlic bread, or as a hearty side dish. For family gatherings or potlucks, consider serving it in individual portions to make it easy for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of my favorite things to pair it with:
- Cornbread complements it as a side dish.
- It pairs well with homemade yeast rolls and butter.
- Roasted broccoli and southern-style green beans can be served as a side dish.
- Try pairing it with honey-glazed carrots.
Adding Black Locust Honey to this recipe will give it a sweetly rich and creamy taste
Adapting our American Chop Suey Recipe
When I decided to make this dish, I didn’t have all the ingredients, so I improvised. For the pasta, I used Orecchiette instead of macaroni, and the sauce was a delicious replacement for the tomato ingredients. A little improvisation is good in the kitchen. You should try making your own version of the best American chop suey recipe with these ingredients if you can get to the store.
- If you have some zucchini on hand, sauté it with the onions and other vegetables.
- A little diced jalapeño pepper would add just the right amount of heat.
- Try cooking and crumbling Italian sausage instead of ground beef. If you don’t eat red meat, use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based “meat” crumble.
- Chicken broth will help to enhance the flavor and moisture of the dish. Use chicken broth as one of the liquid ingredients.
For a convenient and flavorful alternative, consider preparing American chop suey in a slow cooker. This method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and comforting dish. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for several hours. This approach is perfect for busy days and evokes a sense of nostalgia with every bite.
Nutrition and Health
American Chop Suey is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The ground beef provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The rich tomato sauce is loaded with lycopene, an antioxidant known for its health benefits. Elbow macaroni offers complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy, while green peppers and onions add a boost of fiber and vitamins. However, it’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation, as it can be high in calories and fat. Balancing it with a side of vegetables or a light salad can make for a well-rounded meal.
Need something sweet for dessert? Check out our collection of Honey Lollipops!
Related Dishes and Recipes
American Chop Suey often draws comparisons to other beloved comfort foods like chili mac, goulash, and beefaroni. It also shares similarities with Italian-American dishes such as pasta Bolognese and lasagna. For those looking to experiment, try adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the tomato sauce for an extra depth of flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey or ground pork for the ground beef, or toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and taste. The versatility of American Chop Suey makes it a perfect canvas for culinary creativity.
If you decide to make this after learning how to make American Chop Suey, or better yet, your own take, why not take a photo and share it with us using #beeinspired on . We love seeing your photos!
American Chop Suey FAQs
How Long Does American Chop Suey Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, American chop suey can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it and always use clean utensils when serving to prevent contamination.
Can I Freeze American Chop Suey?
Yes. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some room for expansion. This recipe for American chop suey can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Is American Chop Suey the Same as Goulash?
Although often compared, they aren't the same, even though some people call it American goulash! The former is a dish commonly made with ground meat, pasta, and a tomato-based sauce, while goulash is a traditional Hungarian stew typically made with chunks of meat (such as beef or pork), vegetables, and seasoned with paprika. The two dishes have different origins, flavor profiles, and ingredients, making them distinct from each other.
