American Chop Suey: A Comfort Food Classic
American Chop Suey isn't your grandma's chop suey—it's a distinctly American creation, a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. While it shares a name with the Chinese-American dish, the recipes and ingredients are vastly different. This adaptable recipe allows for customization based on your preferences and what's in your pantry, making it a true weeknight winner.
Understanding the American Chop Suey Difference
Traditional Chinese chop suey features stir-fried vegetables and meat in a savory sauce. American chop suey, on the other hand, is a pasta dish featuring ground meat (usually beef or pork, but also adaptable to turkey or even vegetarian options), tomatoes, onions, and green peppers simmered in a rich and tangy sauce. The pasta, typically elbow macaroni, is added to the sauce during the final cooking stage to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
The beauty of American chop suey lies in its simplicity. Here are the core ingredients you'll need to get started:
- Ground Meat: 1 pound of ground beef or your preferred protein. Leaner cuts work well to avoid excessive grease.
- Pasta: 1 pound of elbow macaroni or other short pasta shape.
- Onions: 1 large onion, chopped. Sweet onions add a nice touch.
- Green Bell Peppers: 1 large green bell pepper, chopped. Other peppers like red bell peppers can also be used.
- Canned Tomatoes: 28 ounces of crushed or diced tomatoes.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons of tomato paste adds richness and depth.
- Seasoning: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning. Don't be afraid to experiment with other herbs and spices!
Step-by-Step American Chop Suey Recipe
This recipe is designed for ease of preparation and delicious results. Follow these simple steps:
- Brown the Ground Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions and green peppers to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the Pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni. Add enough water to almost cover the pasta, then bring back to a simmer.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover the pot and cook until the pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a little more water if needed to maintain a simmer.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Variations and Tips for Success
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add other vegetables: Mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, or peas would be delicious additions.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Add beans: A can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or chickpeas adds protein and fiber.
- Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or broth. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid.
Serving Suggestions & Meal Prep Ideas
American Chop Suey is a versatile dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, but it also makes a great meal prep option. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a side salad or crusty bread.
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