There’s a dish quietly simmering in the heart of american kitchens-one that carries the nostalgic aroma of home-cooked comfort and the humble charm of everyday ingredients. American Chop Suey might not boast the exotic flair its name suggests, but this classic casserole weaves together simple ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, tomatoey sauce into a warm embrace of flavor and familiarity. Far from its Chinese-inspired namesake, this beloved American staple has carved out its own delicious identity, embodying the spirit of comfort food that’s both easy to make and endlessly satisfying. In this article, we’ll uncover the history, ingredients, and enduring appeal of American Chop Suey, celebrating a dish that has earned its place on dinner tables across the nation.
American Chop Suey is a beloved classic comfort dish that has found a warm, welcoming place in New england kitchens for over a century. Its roots trace back to the early 20th century as an economical, hearty meal created for busy families craving bold flavors and filling nourishment. Unlike its Asian namesake, this dish celebrates simple American ingredients, combining ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a robust tomato sauce into a hearty skillet supper that comforts and satisfies. From my grandmother’s vintage recipe box to modern family dinners, American Chop Suey continues to define the essence of cozy, home-cooked goodness.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- total Time: 45 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Easy – perfect for beginner cooks and weeknight dinners
Key Ingredients That define Authentic American Chop Suey
- 1 lb lean ground beef - the hearty protein base to build flavor
- 2 cups elbow macaroni – classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully
- 1 medium yellow onion,finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth
- 3 cloves garlic,minced - essential aromatic component
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes – the rich tomato foundation
- 1 cup beef broth – rounds out the sauce with savory notes
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – imparts a subtle umami complexity
- 1 tsp dried oregano - a hint of classic Italian herb flavor
- 1 tsp dried basil – brightens tomato sauce with herbal freshness
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing vegetables and meat
Step by Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect American Chop Suey at Home
- Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside,reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, careful not to brown it.
- Brown the beef: Increase heat to medium-high, add 1 pound ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked thru, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat for a cleaner sauce.
- Create the sauce: pour in the crushed tomatoes, 1 cup beef broth, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Stir in dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and deepen in flavor.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Fold the drained elbow macaroni into the skillet with the sauce. if it looks to thick, stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
- Final simmer: Let the entire dish warm through for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
- Serve hot: spoon into bowls garnished with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Chef’s Notes: Tips for Success
- Beef alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile while maintaining that hearty texture.
- Vegetarian version: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms and lentils to replicate the umami and substance.
- Make ahead: Prepare the sauce a day in advance-it tastes even richer after resting. Reheat gently before adding cooked pasta.
- Sauce thickness: If sauce gets too watery, stir in a small spoon of tomato paste or simmer a bit longer uncovered to reduce.
- Pasta texture: Avoid overcooking macaroni; slightly firm pasta will hold up better when combined with sauce.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings to Elevate Your Comfort Food Experience
American Chop Suey shines best when paired simply and thoughtfully. Serve alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A basket of crusty, buttered garlic bread rounds out the meal with irresistible crunch and flavor contrast. For beverages, a chilled glass of dry white wine or a classic New England pale ale complements the savory tomato sauce impeccably. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of sharp Parmesan cheese to elevate each hearty bite.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
Explore more hearty recipes in our New England Comfort Foods collection, or dive into the history of American staples through this History.com culinary archive.
Q&A
Q&A: American Chop Suey – A Classic Comfort Dish uncovered
Q: What exactly is American Chop Suey?
A: Despite its name, American Chop Suey has little to do with customary chinese chop suey. It’s a hearty, nostalgic American casserole combining elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a savory tomato sauce. Think of it as a comfort food icon that fills the kitchen with warmth and familiarity.
Q: Where did American chop Suey originate?
A: Its roots trace back to New England, where Italian-American families adapted simple pantry ingredients into a no-fuss, satisfying meal. It gained popularity during the early to mid-20th century as an economical,crowd-pleasing dinner that could stretch a modest budget without sacrificing flavor.
Q: How does American Chop Suey differ from similar pasta dishes?
A: Unlike spaghetti Bolognese or other Italian-American pasta recipes, American Chop Suey is less about delicate sauces and more about heartiness. The ground beef, diced onions, elbow macaroni, and tangy tomato sauce come together in a straightforward, rustic way that emphasizes comfort over complexity.
Q: Is American Chop Suey flexible for modern cooks?
A: Absolutely! It’s a blank canvas ready for creativity. Swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based crumbles, add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture, or boost the flavor with garlic, herbs, or a hint of heat. Its simplicity invites innovation while honoring tradition.
Q: Why has American Chop Suey endured as a comfort food?
A: It’s the perfect trifecta of affordability, ease, and nostalgia. For many, it evokes childhood dinners or cozy family gatherings. it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening-a testament to how food ties us to memories and shared experiences.
Q: What’s the best way to serve American Chop Suey?
A: Serve it piping hot, straight from the stove or oven. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds a final touch of indulgence. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a taste of home.
Q: Can beginners try making American Chop Suey?
A: Without a doubt. The recipe’s straightforward steps make it ideal for novice cooks. It requires minimal ingredients and basic techniques, making it a great gateway dish to build confidence in the kitchen.Q: Any fun facts about American Chop Suey?
A: Fun fact – the dish is sometimes affectionately called “American goulash” in certain regions, highlighting how comfort foods naturally evolve across communities.Though its name may sound exotic, its heart and soul are entirely American.
Discovering American Chop suey is like unwrapping a culinary heirloom – simple, unpretentious, and deeply satisfying. Next time you want a meal that feels like home,this classic comfort dish is ready to deliver.
The Way Forward
As the steam rises from a hearty plate of American Chop Suey, we’re reminded that comfort food is more than just sustenance-it’s a delicious thread connecting history, culture, and community. This classic dish, with its humble ingredients and satisfying flavors, tells a story of American ingenuity and the timeless appeal of simple, home-cooked meals. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious first-timer,American Chop Suey invites you to savor a taste of nostalgia while embracing the warmth of tradition. So next time you seek a meal that feels like a cozy embrace, let this iconic comfort food take you on a flavorful journey back to the heart of American kitchens.
