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American Chop Suey Recipe

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American Chop Suey is a classic New England comfort food made with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and satisfying weeknight meals.

Ingredients

  • Elbow macaroni
  • Ground beef
  • Onion, diced
  • Green bell pepper, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Olive oil
  • Tomato sauce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Tomato paste
  • Beef broth
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Italian seasoning
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente.
  2. Reserve a small amount of the pasta cooking water, then drain the macaroni.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven and cook the onion and bell pepper until softened.
  4. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
  5. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks.
  6. Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  7. Simmer the sauce until it thickens and the flavors blend together.
  8. Stir the cooked macaroni into the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top if desired and let it melt.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for the ground beef if desired.
  • Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables.
  • Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy variation.
  • Mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for an extra cheesy version.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat with a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce.

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