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American Chop Suey

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American Chop Suey is a classic New England comfort dish made with elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or nostalgic family dinners.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed or diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Add onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until evenly coated.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar to the sauce.
  • To make it spicier, add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
  • Bake topped with cheese for a bubbly casserole-style version.
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/american-chop-suey/