Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight meal? Look no further than American Chop Suey! This classic dish is a far cry from its Chinese namesake, offering a hearty blend of ground beef, pasta, and vegetables in a rich tomato sauce. It's a perfect example of delicious homemade cooking that's both budget-friendly and satisfying. This recipe delivers a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and it's surprisingly healthy too! Let's dive into this easy recipe and discover why American Chop Suey remains a beloved comfort food.
Ingredients: A Simple List for a Delicious Meal
This recipe provides a great balance of flavor and nutrition. You likely already have many of these ingredients in your pantry!
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making American Chop Suey
This American Chop Suey recipe is straightforward, even for beginner cooks!
- Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir gently to combine. Heat through for another 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Use different pasta: While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or rotini.
- Make it a complete protein: Add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This easy recipe for American Chop Suey is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy this delicious dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite variations! It's a perfect example of simple, satisfying homemade cooking that the whole family will love. This best recipe is a true testament to the versatility and deliciousness of classic comfort food.