Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
Beef American Chop Suey is a comforting, one-pot meal made with seasoned ground beef, elbow macaroni, onions, bell peppers, and a delicious tomato sauce. This dish is also sometimes called “American Goulash” or “Johnny Marzetti” and is a nostalgic favorite for many. It’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor—perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook the Macaroni
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve
Once the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheddar cheese, and enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Ground Beef: Use ground beef with 80/20 fat content for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. You can use leaner beef if you prefer, but it may require additional seasoning.
- Tomato Sauce: If you like a slightly sweeter sauce, you can add 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Macaroni: Stir occasionally while the macaroni cooks to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Variations
- Turkey American Chop Suey: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Chop Suey: Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn to increase the veggie content.
- Cheesy American Chop Suey: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese at the end of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy American Chop Suey: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! American Chop Suey is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Can I freeze American Chop Suey?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I prevent the macaroni from getting mushy?
If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the macaroni separately until just al dente. Add it to the dish right before serving to prevent it from overcooking and getting mushy.
What can I serve with American Chop Suey?
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like rotini, small shells, or penne.
Conclusion
Beef American Chop Suey is a classic, comforting dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a simple, hearty meal that the whole family will love.
Try this recipe for a taste of classic American comfort food, and enjoy the rich flavors of beef, pasta, and a delicious tomato-based sauce. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!
