Why You’ll Love this Easy Basic American Chop Suey Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s quick to prepare, you’ll love this Easy Basic American Chop Suey Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that brings warmth to your kitchen and fills your home with mouthwatering aromas.
What I adore about this recipe is how effortlessly it combines familiar flavors and textures. The hearty ground beef pairs perfectly with tender pasta and vibrant veggies. Plus, the addition of savory cheese makes every bite feel indulgent!
You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. It’s satisfying, affordable, and a surefire way to please everyone at the table. Trust me; this dish quickly becomes a family favorite!
Ingredients of Easy Basic American Chop Suey
When it comes to making a comforting meal, the ingredients in this Mozzarella-Enhanced American Chop Suey Recipe are the stars of the show. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that classic, hearty flavor we all love. You might even have some of these goodies sitting in your pantry or fridge right now, just waiting for the perfect moment to shine.
Trust me, once you gather these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious dinner that will make your taste buds dance.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 – 1 1/2 lb ground chuck
- 0.5 (8 ounce) box elbow macaroni
- 1 small to medium onion, chopped
- 1 (26 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce (I recommend Walmart’s Great Value brand Onion and Garlic spaghetti sauce)
- 3 stalks celery, chopped into 1/2 to 1 inch pieces
- Butter (for sautéing)
- Water (for boiling, and salt to taste)
- Mozzarella cheese (grated, I suggest buying a block and grating it yourself for the best texture)
- Parmesan cheese
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients a bit more. Ground chuck is the way to go for that juicy flavor, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you could try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
And don’t stress about the vegetables—celery adds a lovely crunch, but you could toss in bell peppers or even mushrooms if those are your jam. Really, this recipe is all about personal preference, so feel free to make it your own.
Oh, and if you find yourself with leftover spaghetti sauce, don’t worry; it’s perfect for dipping breadsticks or even drizzling over a pizza. The possibilities are endless!
How to Make Easy Basic American Chop Suey
Making Mozzarella-Enhanced American Chop Suey is like starting a culinary adventure, one that’s filled with comforting aromas and vibrant flavors. To kick things off, grab that 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of ground chuck and cook it in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat, unless you’re feeling a little rebellious and want that extra richness in your dish.
While that beef is sizzling away, it’s the perfect time to chop up one small to medium onion and three stalks of celery. Once the meat is done, toss in a generous pat of butter and sauté those veggies until they’re soft and just beginning to brown—about 5 to 7 minutes. The smell will be nothing short of heavenly, and you might find yourself wondering why you don’t make this more often.
Next, let’s talk pasta. Boil a pot of salted water and add in half a box (that’s 8 ounces) of elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. You want it to have a little bite to it because it’s going to soak up all that delicious sauce later. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, but don’t rinse it—let that starch cling on because it helps the sauce stick.
Now, here’s where the magic happens: in the pot with your drained pasta, mix in 1 1/2 jars (that’s about 39 ounces, or 1,100 grams) of your favorite spaghetti sauce, the sautéed veggies, and the cooked ground chuck. Give it a good stir to combine everything. And just when you think it can’t get any better, sprinkle in some grated mozzarella cheese. I highly recommend grating it yourself from a block for that ooey-gooey texture we all crave. Finally, top it off with a dusting of parmesan cheese—because, really, is there such a thing as too much cheese? Probably not.
Now, all that’s left is to let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully. As you do this, you can take a moment to appreciate how simple it was to whip up this delightful dish.
When you’re ready to serve, scoop it into bowls, and watch the smiles spread across your family’s faces. Honestly, this dish is so comforting, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. And if you’re anything like me, you might just find yourself going back for seconds, or thirds, because who can resist that cheesy goodness? Enjoy!
Easy Basic American Chop Suey Substitutions & Variations
While I cherish the classic flavors of Easy Basic American Chop Suey, I love experimenting with substitutions and variations that can elevate this dish.
For instance, instead of ground chuck, I sometimes use turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier option. Adding different veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms can bring in fresh flavors and textures.
If I’m feeling adventurous, I swap out elbow macaroni for penne or whole wheat pasta. For the sauce, homemade marinara or a spicy arrabbiata can add a unique twist.
Finally, I often sprinkle in some Italian herbs or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. These substitutions keep the dish exciting while still honoring its comforting essence!
What to Serve with Easy Basic American Chop Suey
After experimenting with various substitutions and variations for Easy Basic American Chop Suey, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside this comforting dish.
I love pairing it with a simple side salad—just some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette add a fresh crunch.
Garlic bread is another favorite of mine; it complements the saucy flavors perfectly and makes for a hearty meal.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, try a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for that nutritious boost.
Finally, don’t forget a sprinkle of extra mozzarella on top for that melty goodness.
These sides elevate the dish beautifully, making it a complete and satisfying meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your mozzarella-enhanced American chop suey, consider these additional tips that can elevate your dish.
First, using fresh mozzarella instead of pre-grated adds a delightful creaminess that melts beautifully. I also like to incorporate garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper.
Don’t forget about the veggies! Adding bell peppers or mushrooms can give your dish more texture and nutrition.
When serving, I recommend letting it rest for a few minutes; this helps the flavors meld. Finally, consider garnishing with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your cooking adventure, and I can’t wait for you to try it!