Why You’ll Love this American Chop Suey Recipe
When you take a bite of this American Chop Suey, you’ll instantly understand why it’s such a beloved dish. The combination of hearty pasta, savory beef, and vibrant vegetables creates a comforting harmony of flavors that warms the soul.
I love how it brings together simple ingredients and transforms them into something truly satisfying. Each spoonful bursts with the rich taste of tomato and spices, making it perfect for any family dinner or casual get-together.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adjust the veggies or spices to suit your preferences. It’s not just a meal; it feels like home.
Once you try it, I bet you’ll find yourself making it a regular part of your recipe rotation.
Ingredients of American Chop Suey
When it comes to whipping up a delicious American Chop Suey, the ingredients are pretty straightforward but full of flavor. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, filled with pasta, beef, and a medley of veggies all swimming in a rich tomato sauce.
Now, let’s take a look at what you need to gather before you plunge into cooking.
Ingredients for American Chop Suey:
- 1 (16 ounce) box of elbow macaroni
- 1 pound of hamburger
- 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons of minced garlic
- 2 (12 3/4 ounce) cans of condensed tomato soup
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of parsley
- 1 tablespoon of basil
- 1 large red pepper, sliced thin
- 1 cup of fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 (13 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, drained
Now that you have your ingredients lined up, it’s time to think about a few things.
First off, feel free to mix and match the veggies. Don’t have mushrooms? No problem! Swap in some zucchini or throw in some spinach—whatever you have on hand will work.
And if you want a little kick, you could toss in some crushed red pepper flakes. Just remember, cooking is all about making the recipe your own, so don’t stress too much about sticking to the list.
Oh, and if you’re like me and sometimes forget to check the pantry before shopping, double-check those canned goods to make sure you’re not buying duplicates.
Trust me, no one needs three cans of tomato soup unless you’re preparing for a soup party.
How to Make American Chop Suey
Alright, let’s explore making this comforting classic, Red Pepper American Chop Suey. First things first, grab that 16-ounce box of elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package directions. You know the drill: boil some salted water, throw in the pasta, and give it a stir. Set a timer, so you don’t get distracted scrolling through your phone and accidentally turn your macaroni into mush.
Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside for now—don’t worry, it’ll be reunited with its friends soon enough.
While your pasta is cooking, let’s get into the heart of this dish. In a large skillet, over medium heat, toss in 1 pound of hamburger and 1 medium onion, roughly chopped. Sauté them together for about 10 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft and fragrant.
I like to think of this step as a little dance party—just keep stirring and mixing it up. Once it’s all cooked, drain any excess grease (because no one wants a greasy dinner) and set this meaty goodness aside.
In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic, along with that lovely thinly sliced 1 large red pepper and 1 cup of fresh mushrooms. Sauté these veggies until they’re tender and full of flavor—about 5 minutes should do the trick.
Now it’s time to bring everything together in a big, cozy pot. Grab a large stockpot and combine the meat mixture with the sautéed veggies. Add in 2 (12 3/4 ounce) cans of condensed tomato soup, 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon each of parsley and basil for that extra flavor kick.
Then, toss in 1 (13 ounce) can of drained diced tomatoes. Stir it all up and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step is essential—this is where the flavors meld together and create that delicious, rich sauce we all love.
Finally, add your cooked elbow macaroni into the pot, giving it a good stir until everything is well combined. And there you have it, a warm, hearty meal ready to serve. Just be careful not to burn your tongue on that first bite—trust me, I’ve been there.
American Chop Suey Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that delicious Red Pepper American Chop Suey, you might find yourself wanting to mix things up a bit.
I love experimenting with different proteins, so feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu.
For veggies, try adding zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers in various colors to brighten the dish.
If you’re looking for a kick, a dash of hot sauce or some jalapeños can spice things up.
Don’t forget about cheese—topping your chop suey with shredded mozzarella or cheddar adds a delightful creaminess.
Each variation brings a new twist, so get creative and make it your own!
What to Serve with American Chop Suey
While American Chop Suey is a hearty meal on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience.
I love serving it with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the dish.
Garlic bread is another favorite; its crispy, buttery goodness complements the savory flavors beautifully.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients to your plate.
For a comforting touch, consider some warm, crusty rolls for dipping into the sauce.
Finally, a light dessert, like a fruit salad or sorbet, can cleanse your palate and make the meal feel complete.
Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
When enjoying American Chop Suey with your favorite sides, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to enhance the dish.
First, feel free to customize the veggies; adding zucchini or spinach can elevate the flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
I also love to top my serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness. Don’t forget to let leftovers sit in the fridge overnight; the flavors meld beautifully.
Finally, serving it with a crusty bread or garlic knots can really round out the meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and remember, it’s all about making it your own!