Introduction

American Chop Suey is one of those nostalgic comfort food classics that instantly reminds many of cozy family dinners and hearty home cooking. Despite its name, this dish is uniquely American, with no connection to the Chinese chop suey. It’s a beloved one-pot meal made with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, onions, and a medley of savory spices—all simmered together until rich, hearty, and satisfying.

This recipe became especially popular in New England, where it’s a weeknight staple thanks to its simplicity, affordability, and ability to feed a hungry crowd. It’s the perfect balance of pasta and beefy tomato sauce, creating a dish that’s both filling and full of flavor. The beauty of American Chop Suey lies in its adaptability—you can keep it classic or add vegetables, extra spices, or different cheeses to make it your own.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a nostalgic dish that brings back memories, or a hearty meal to satisfy everyone at the table, American Chop Suey is a timeless favorite that never disappoints. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor—everything you want in a family meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly embodies the essence of comfort food—it’s warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying without being complicated. The combination of tender elbow macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and rich tomato sauce creates a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Every bite is savory, slightly tangy, and wonderfully nostalgic, reminding me of cozy family dinners and the kind of homemade cooking that always hits the spot.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. It’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and can easily be customized to fit any taste—whether you want to spice it up with chili flakes, sneak in extra veggies, or melt some gooey cheese on top. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish, meaning leftovers taste even better the next day.

But most of all, I love how this dish brings people together. It’s simple enough for a quick weeknight meal but comforting enough to serve for gatherings. No matter when it’s made, American Chop Suey always delivers that classic, homestyle flavor that feels both familiar and special.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it captures the heart of American comfort cooking in its simplest, most delicious form. It’s one of those timeless recipes that delivers big flavors with humble ingredients—juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce infused with onions, garlic, and herbs. Together, they create a meal that feels both hearty and satisfying, yet is easy enough for any cook to master.

What makes it truly special is how approachable and family-friendly it is. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, a hungry crowd, or just looking for a quick and filling dinner, American Chop Suey checks all the boxes. It’s cost-effective, comes together in under an hour, and makes generous portions that are perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Beyond its practicality, it’s a dish layered with nostalgia and tradition. Many families have their own version of chop suey, passed down from generation to generation, making it a recipe that connects us to both heritage and home. By trying it, you’re not only enjoying a comforting bowl of pasta and beef—you’re experiencing a piece of classic American culinary culture.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~410 kcal per serving (varies with cheese amount and sauce type)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz / 794 g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225 g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 3 cups water or beef broth (for cooking pasta in sauce)

Optional Toppings

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
• Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Add diced onion and bell pepper to the beef. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce

• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper.
• Let simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.

4. Add Pasta and Liquid

• Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and water (or beef broth).
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

5. Optional Cheese Finish

• If using cheese, sprinkle over the top and cover until melted.

6. Final Taste Check

• Adjust salt and pepper if needed.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in deep bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Great with garlic bread or a crisp green salad on the side.

Additional Recipe Tips and Variations

• Meat swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
• Veggie boost: Add diced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to increase nutrients.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy version: Stir in 1/2 cup of cheese directly into the sauce before serving for a creamier texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet, sauté pan, or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q1: Can I cook the pasta separately?
Yes, you can cook pasta separately and then stir it into the sauce before serving, but cooking it in the sauce makes it more flavorful.

Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef and sauté veggies first, then transfer to a slow cooker with sauce and cooked pasta. Cook on low for 3–4 hours.

Q3: How do I prevent soggy pasta in leftovers?
Slightly undercook the pasta if you plan to store and reheat—it will absorb more sauce over time.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely—use gluten-free elbow pasta and check your tomato sauce for hidden gluten.

Conclusion

American Chop Suey is the ultimate weeknight dinner—simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug, whether you’re making it for a family gathering, meal prep, or just to enjoy a bowl of comfort at the end of a busy day. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a classic that’s been passed down through generations.