Classic American Chop Suey Recipe

American Chop Suey Recipe: A Complete Guide to This Classic Comfort Dish

The American Chop Suey recipe is a beloved comfort food in many households across the United States, holding a special place in the hearts of those who enjoy hearty, satisfying meals. Despite the misleading name, this dish is not related to the Chinese-style chop suey. Instead, American Chop Suey is a fusion of ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and seasonings that create a delicious, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history of the American Chop Suey recipe, delve into its regional variations, highlight the key ingredients, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to prepare this dish. Whether you are a novice cook or a seasoned home chef, this guide will help you master the art of making the perfect American Chop Suey recipe. We’ll also suggest serving ideas and address common questions throughout the article.

The History of American Chop Suey

Origins of the Dish

American Chop Suey dates back to the early 20th century and became popular in the northeastern United States, particularly in New England. It’s a dish that’s a mix of Italian and American flavors, borrowing elements from classic pasta dishes but adapted for the busy American lifestyle. While the exact origin of the dish is unclear, it is thought to have been a product of Italian immigrants who adapted their traditional recipes using American ingredients. The dish spread across the country, becoming a staple in school cafeterias, diners, and family dinner tables.

Distinct from Chinese Chop Suey

The name “chop suey” originally comes from Chinese cuisine, where it refers to a stir-fry made with a variety of meats and vegetables, often served over rice. However, the American version has little to do with this. The term “chop suey” in the American version seems to have been adopted to evoke the idea of a mixed, thrown-together dish. Over time, this hearty pasta casserole became synonymous with an entirely different creation: a pasta-based casserole with Italian-American roots.

Key Ingredients

Core Components

The key to making an excellent version of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic version:

Elbow macaroni: This pasta soaks up the rich sauce while adding texture to the dish. Though elbow macaroni is traditional, you can try using different pasta shapes for variety.
Ground beef: Lean ground beef adds heartiness and flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce serve as the base for the sauce. Some recipes also include diced tomatoes for additional texture.
Onion and garlic: Aromatics like onion and garlic provide foundational flavors that complement the beef and tomatoes.
Bell pepper: Chopped bell peppers add a slight sweetness and a crunchy texture to the dish.
Seasonings: Common seasonings include salt, pepper, oregano, and basil, but many home cooks add their own blend of spices to personalize the dish.
Cheese (optional): Although not always included in traditional recipes, some people like to top their chop suey with shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

Optional Ingredients and Variations

While the basic recipe includes just a few ingredients, there are many ways to add your own twist:

Vegetarian option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Extra spices: For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
More vegetables: To boost the nutritional value, you can add vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, mushrooms, or spinach.
Different pasta: While elbow macaroni is traditional, other pasta shapes like penne or rotini can be used.
Cheesy casserole: Mix in shredded cheese and bake the dish for a bubbly, cheesy finish.

How to Make American Chop Suey: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Cook the pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics
- In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Brown the ground beef
- Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the tomatoes and seasonings
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (if using), oregano, basil, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
Combine the pasta and sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. If the mixture looks too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
Serve
- At this point, you can serve the dish as is, or you can transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Regional Variations

New England Style

In New England, this classic casserole is often prepared with just ground beef, macaroni, and a simple tomato sauce. It’s a staple dish served in schools and diners, especially during the colder months.

Southern Twist

In the southern United States, versions of this recipe might include a touch of sweetness from barbecue sauce or brown sugar, along with some added spice, such as cayenne pepper, reflecting the region’s love for bold flavors.

Italian-American Influence

In areas with a strong Italian-American presence, you may find versions that include more Italian herbs like basil and parsley, and perhaps even a splash of red wine in the sauce to elevate the depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Comfort meal: Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
Leftovers: American Chop Suey tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze for later meals.
Cheesy baked version: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the top and bake for a cheesy casserole version.
Potluck favorite: This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings because it’s easy to prepare in large quantities and appeals to a wide audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when needed.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other shapes like penne, rotini, or shells.
Is there a vegetarian version?
You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils.