Retro Recipe for American Chop Suey

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic throwback to mid-century American cooking
• Easy one-pot meal with simple ingredients
• Hearty, filling, and budget-friendly
• Great for feeding a family or large group
• Perfect make-ahead meal—tastes even better the next day
• Customizable with pantry staples
• Ready in under an hour
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
• Delicious leftovers for lunch or meal prep
• Nostalgic flavors from childhood dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni
• Ground beef
• Onion, diced
• Green bell pepper, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter

Directions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
3. Add diced onions and green bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
6. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and sugar (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.
9. Let everything cook together for another 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
10. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated cheese or fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
• Add red bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies
• Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce
• Stir in shredded cheese for a creamy twist
• Swap elbow macaroni with penne, rotini, or shells
• Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced for a smoother sauce

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or tomato sauce if it thickens too much. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What is American Chop Suey?

It’s a pasta and meat dish made with macaroni, ground beef, and tomato sauce—popular in New England and the Midwest.

Why is it called “Chop Suey”?

The name was likely borrowed to give it an exotic feel, even though it has no relation to the Chinese-American dish. It’s an entirely American creation.

Is it the same as goulash?

It’s very similar to what some regions call “American Goulash.” The terms are often used interchangeably.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats very well and is even more flavorful the next day.

What kind of meat works best?

Ground beef is traditional, but ground turkey, chicken, or even meatless crumbles work well too.

Do I have to use elbow macaroni?

No, you can use any short pasta, but elbows are the classic choice.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely. Stir in cheddar or top with mozzarella before serving.

Is it supposed to be saucy or dry?

It should be well-coated in sauce, but not overly soupy. You can adjust the amount of tomato sauce to your liking.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce?

Yes, jarred sauce is a convenient alternative to homemade, though the retro version typically uses canned tomato products.

What can I serve with American Chop Suey?

It pairs well with garlic bread, salad, steamed vegetables, or even a pickle on the side for a classic diner-style touch.

Conclusion

American Chop Suey is a timeless, satisfying dish that brings together simple ingredients and big flavors. With its comforting mix of pasta, beef, and tomato sauce, it’s no wonder this retro recipe has remained a staple in American kitchens for decades. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or reheating for lunch the next day, this hearty classic always hits the spot.

Retro Recipe for American Chop Suey

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American Chop Suey is a retro one-pot comfort dish made with elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Hearty, nostalgic, and easy to prepare, it’s a family favorite perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

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Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
3. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
6. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until fully combined.
9. Cook together for another 5–10 minutes to let flavors meld.
10. Serve hot, optionally topped with grated cheese or fresh herbs.

Notes

• Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced for a smoother sauce.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
• Stir in cheese at the end for a creamier texture.
• Great for leftovers—flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 55mg