American Chop Suey: A Comforting Classic

Introduction: American Chop Suey is a beloved comfort food that’s been a staple in many American kitchens for generations. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the best of ground beef, bell peppers, onions, elbow macaroni, and a savory sauce. The dish is often referred to as “American Goulash” in some parts of the U.S. but has distinct regional variations. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy weeknight meal, American Chop Suey delivers satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (beef chuck or lean beef works best)
1 onion, chopped (yellow or white onions)
3 green bell peppers, chopped
2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce)
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
1 ½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional but adds depth)
Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Method & Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat, if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

To the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes & Spices

Now, add in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir to combine. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the Worcestershire sauce if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce and heat through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve the American Chop Suey hot. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for an extra layer of flavor and color. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

History of American Chop Suey:

American Chop Suey’s origins are a bit mysterious, but it is believed to be an American invention, despite the name “Chop Suey” commonly being associated with Chinese cuisine. Some historians trace it back to the early 20th century, when immigrant cooks began adapting Chinese cooking techniques and ingredients to American tastes. However, unlike the stir-fries of traditional Chinese chop suey, American Chop Suey is more of a hearty, one-pot pasta dish that likely evolved from “goulash” recipes brought over by immigrants from Eastern Europe.

The American version of Chop Suey has evolved to become a nostalgic and regional favorite, especially in New England, where it’s often served as a budget-friendly family dinner. It’s a versatile recipe, with some variations including cheese, sausage, or even the use of different pastas.

Formation of the Dish:

American Chop Suey’s formation mirrors much of American cuisine’s melting pot nature. Early iterations of the dish were simple, focusing on readily available ingredients like pasta, ground meat, and canned tomatoes. Over time, the dish became a household name due to its quick prep time, ease of making large quantities, and flexibility to adapt to personal tastes or regional preferences. The addition of bell peppers and herbs elevates the flavor, while still keeping the dish simple and comforting.

Conclusion:

American Chop Suey is a dish with humble beginnings but a lasting legacy in American comfort food. It offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and hearty flavors, all wrapped up in one pot. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic meal or just want something easy to prepare on a busy weeknight, this dish has you covered. It’s a dish that brings people together, satisfying hunger while creating memories around the table.

Lovers of American Chop Suey:

This dish is especially loved by:

Families – It’s a quick, affordable, and crowd-pleasing meal that works well for busy households.
College Students – For those living in dorms or apartments, American Chop Suey is the perfect “budget meal” that makes use of pantry staples.
Meal Preppers – Its make-ahead quality makes it perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and portion it for several days.
Comfort Food Seekers – Those who crave a warm, filling meal after a long day will love the cozy, satisfying nature of American Chop Suey.

Lovers’ Methods:

For lovers of this dish, it’s all about making it your own! Some variations you can try include:

Cheesy American Chop Suey: Add shredded cheddar cheese into the mix just before serving for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Spicy Version: For those who like a kick, throw in a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the beef.
Vegetarian Chop Suey: Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based ground meat, and use vegetable broth for a lighter, plant-powered version.

No matter how you make it, American Chop Suey remains a dish that everyone can customize and enjoy.

Whether you’re cooking for one, a family, or a group of friends, American Chop Suey is a recipe that brings comfort, joy, and satisfaction. This dish isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating memories and sharing a meal that connects generations.