American Chop Suey is a beloved New England classic that combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce. Despite its name, this dish isn’t related to the Chinese-American stir-fry “chop suey” but rather a comforting American pasta casserole that’s been enjoyed for generations.

It’s the kind of dish that warms both the stomach and the soul—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknights when you crave something hearty and filling. With its blend of pasta, meat, vegetables, and a zesty sauce, American Chop Suey delivers both nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet endlessly comforting. It uses everyday pantry staples—pasta, ground beef, tomatoes, onions—and turns them into a hearty one-pot meal that always hits the spot. The flavors are balanced beautifully: the slight sweetness of tomatoes, the richness of beef, and the warmth of sautéed onions and peppers, all tied together with tender pasta.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Budget-friendly – feeds a family without breaking the bank.
• Versatile – you can customize the seasonings, veggies, or protein to your liking.
• Family-approved – kids and adults alike love it.
• Perfect for meal prep – it freezes and reheats well, making it ideal for busy schedules.

Time, Servings & Calories:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories (per serving): ~420 kcal

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Course / Comfort Food
• Cuisine: American (New England Classic)

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for depth)
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• 2 cups beef broth or water (adjust for consistency)
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
• Optional topping: grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese

Quick Directions

1. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente.
2. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic in olive oil.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Simmer.
5. Combine pasta with sauce and beef. Cook until flavors meld.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and cheese.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
   In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Brown the Beef
   Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon (about 6–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Make the Sauce
   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, and sugar. Pour in beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
5. Combine with Pasta
   Add the cooked pasta into the sauce mixture. Stir well until evenly coated. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb flavor.
6. Final Touch
   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Pair with garlic bread or a green salad for a balanced meal.
• For a heartier option, serve with roasted vegetables on the side.
• Leftovers make an excellent next-day lunch.

Tips for this Recipe:

• Use elbow macaroni for authenticity, but any small pasta works.
• Let the sauce simmer long enough so the flavors deepen.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should stay firm when combined with sauce.
• Make it extra cheesy by mixing in cheddar or mozzarella before serving.

Variations:

• Turkey Chop Suey: Swap beef for ground turkey for a lighter dish.
• Veggie Version: Replace meat with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.
• Cheesy Bake: Transfer to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or chili flakes for extra heat.
• Mediterranean Style: Use ground lamb, olives, and feta for a Greek-inspired variation.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to refresh moisture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or Dutch oven for sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Airtight containers (for leftovers and freezing)

FAQ:

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the sauce ahead and store it separately, then boil fresh pasta and combine when ready to serve.

Q2: Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely—zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms work well.

Q3: What pasta shape works best?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells, rotini, or penne also work.

Q4: Is it the same as goulash?
Yes, in many regions American Chop Suey is also called American Goulash.

Conclusion

American Chop Suey with Ground Beef is the epitome of classic American comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s a dish that bridges generations, bringing families together around the table with its familiar warmth. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, cooking for a crowd, or just craving something nostalgic, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular favorite in your kitchen!