Mom's Best American Chop Suey
Mom S Best American Chop Suey
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Alright, let's get cracking! ever have one of those days where you just crave something ridiculously comforting? honestly, that's when this american chop suey recipe comes to mind.
It's pure, unadulterated, stick-to-your ribs goodness.
Mom's Best American Chop Suey: Your New Weeknight Hero
Think of it as goulash's cool American cousin, or maybe fancy mac and cheese had a baby with beef. It's a classic American Chop Suey , not the Chinese dish!
This American Chopped Suey Recipe is a hug in a bowl. It's basically pasta and beef simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. It will remind you of the good old days.
What’s the Deal with This American Chop Suey With Tomato Soup ?
Okay, so american chop suey , or sometimes america chop suey as some people say, isn't exactly a gourmet delicacy.
Its origins are a bit murky. but it's a staple dish across the us, and a simple weeknight meal. its also known as beef american chop suey in certain areas.
This is not belgian food or related to nigerian recipes or uk recipes .
This version is super easy. we're talking 45 minutes from start to finish, and it serves about 6 hungry people.
Trust me, even if you're a disaster in the kitchen, you can nail this.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Honestly, this american chop suey recipe is special because it’s simple. it’s a one-pot wonder. this means less washing up after dinner.
Plus, it is loaded with protein. you get that from the ground beef.
The slight tang from the tomatoes is balanced. this is done with a touch of sugar. the perfect occasion to serve this? a chilly evening with family.
It brings everyone together. it’s my go-to when i need a quick and satisfying meal.
Ready to get cooking? Let's talk ingredients.
Alright, let's chat about what you'll need to whip up my version of the american chop suey recipe , also known as mom's magic in a pot.
Honestly, this is one of those dishes where you can eyeball a lot of it, but i'll give you some proper measurements to get you started.
Ingredients & Equipment: Gear Up for Goulash!
Let's talk about what you need to bring this American classic to life.
Main Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g) . Aim for an 80/20 blend. The fat is key for flavour, trust me!
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped. About a cup, give or take.
- Green Bell Pepper: ½ medium, chopped. About half a cup, too.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Don't skimp on the garlic!
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g) . The small pasta works best!
- Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces (794g) , canned.
- Tomato Sauce: 15 ounces (425g) , canned.
- Beef Broth: 1 cup (240ml) .
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . It's important to the taste!
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Yep, sugar! This balances the tomato.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (5ml) , or to taste.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) , or to taste.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: (Optional, for serving).
Ground beef quality: Look for bright red color and firm texture. Avoid beef that is brown or slimy. Trust your nose!
Seasoning Notes: The Flavour Force
So, about the spices. You know, the stuff that makes this more than just beef and pasta.
- Essential spice combination: Italian seasoning, salt, pepper. Don’t even THINK about skipping these.
- Flavor enhancers and aromatics: That Worcestershire sauce is a game changer. Garlic is a MUST.
- Quick substitutions: No Italian seasoning? Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, rosemary and thyme.
My nan always added a pinch of cinnamon for a bit of warmth, but that's just her. This American Chopped Suey Recipe is really about making it your own.
Equipment Needed
Okay, you don’t need a ton of fancy gear for this American Chop Suey .
- Essential tools: A large pot or Dutch oven. A cutting board. A knife. Measuring cups/spoons. A wooden spoon.
- Common household alternatives: Don't have a Dutch oven? Any big pot will do. Can't find a wooden spoon? A spatula works.
Honestly, this recipe is all about simple, accessible cooking. no fancy chef skills needed. i've even seen some folks across the pond in the uk try it! it is far from the belgian food , nigerian recipes , uk recipes .
The best part of this american chop suey with tomato soup is how forgiving it is. don't have all the ingredients? improvise.
Too much salt? add a pinch of sugar. this recipe is about making it your own. remember, its not exactly america chop suey , its beef american chop suey , is a journey, not a destination.
Make this american chop suey the best!
Alright, let's get down to business and talk about one of the ultimate comfort foods: mom's best american chop suey recipe ! forget those complicated dishes and fancy ingredients.
We're diving headfirst into a classic that's easy, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. and yes, this is the american version nothing like the stir fry you might be expecting.
Think of it as a supercharged beef american chop suey or even goulash, made simple.
Prep Like a Pro
Essential mise en place: before you even think about turning on the hob, get everything ready. chop 1 medium onion and ½ green bell pepper .
Mince 2 cloves of garlic . measure out your spices. this isn't some fancy belgian food recipe; it's all about efficiency.
Time Saving Hacks: Honestly, there aren't too many shortcuts with this. But, using pre-minced garlic from a jar is perfectly acceptable. No judgement here.
Safety Note: Be careful when draining the ground beef! Hot grease is no joke, lads.
Let's Get Cooking: Your Step-by-Step Guide
- Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a big pot over medium high heat. Throw in 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until it's nicely browned. Drain off the extra grease. Nobody wants a swimming pool of fat in their chop suey.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add that chopped onion and green bell pepper . Cook them until they're soft, around 5 minutes . Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 60 seconds until you can smell its loveliness.
- Sauce Time: Stir in the 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes , 15 ounces of tomato sauce , 1 cup of beef broth , 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce , 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning , 1 teaspoon of sugar , 1 teaspoon of salt , and ½ teaspoon of pepper . Give it a good mix and bring it to a simmer.
- Pasta Party: Add 1 pound of uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Make sure the pasta is covered in the sauce. Stir, stir, stir!
- Simmer Down: Turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15- 20 minutes , or until the macaroni is tender and the sauce is nice and thick. Stir it every so often so it doesn't stick.
- Taste Test: Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. American Chop Suey with tomato soup is good. America chop suey is better. Don't be afraid to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a pinch more sugar to balance the flavors.
- Serve it Up: Serve it hot. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top? Absolutely!
Pro Tips for American Chopped Suey Recipe Perfection
- Don't overcook the macaroni : Soggy pasta? No, thank you. Start checking for doneness around 15 minutes .
- Secret Ingredient: A dash of balsamic vinegar after simmering really brings it home!
- Make Ahead Magic: This is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Honestly, this recipe is a keeper. i've been making it since i was a nipper, and it's always a crowd pleaser.
The american chop suey recipe is just so simple. so go on, give it a bash and let me know what you think! it is not nigerian recipes or uk recipes , but has its place.
Okay, let's dive into the nitty gritty with some extra notes on this American Chop Suey recipe , because honestly, there's always more to learn, right? I want this America Chop Suey to be perfect for you!
Recipe Notes: Elevating Your American Chop Suey Recipe
First things first, i'm not claiming this is authentic belgian food or even remotely related to nigerian recipes . this is pure, unadulterated american chop suey , a dish many of us grew up with.
It is a true uk recipes comfort food icon that's simple to make.
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Honestly, sometimes presentation is half the battle! when plating your american chop suey , don't just dump it in a bowl (although i've been guilty of that!).
A nice dollop, maybe a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and a sprig of parsley can make all the difference. you know?
For sides, garlic bread is a no-brainer. a simple side salad cuts through the richness. or, for ultimate comfort, cornbread is fantastic.
This beef american chop suey is already bursting with comfort, so try to pick sides that are the same.
Storage Tips: Making It Last
Refrigeration: Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Freezing: yep, you can freeze this american chop suey recipe ! let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer safe bags or containers.
It'll keep for up to 3 months. when reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
I find adding a splash of beef broth helps revive the sauce. important: ensure it's heated through thoroughly before serving.
Variations: Making It Your Own
Want to spice things up? add a pinch of red pepper flakes! for a vegetarian version, lentils work great. my mate substituted ground turkey and it was brilliant.
Get creative with this american chopped suey recipe .
Need a gluten free version? Use gluten free pasta. Important: Cooking times may vary with gluten free pasta.
Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Body
Okay, let's be real: this isn't exactly health food. but hey, it's got protein and some veggies! one serving has roughly 450 calories, 30g of protein, 20g of fat, and 40g of carbs.
It’s comfort food, but in moderation, it fits in a balanced diet. Plus, it's packed with iron from the beef.
So there you have it! My complete notes on American Chop Suey With Tomato Soup . Enjoy cooking and tucking into this hearty dish! Hopefully, you are going to make this amazing American Chop Suey Recipe !
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is American Chop Suey, and is this recipe like the stuff I get from a Chinese takeout?
That's a fair question! American Chop Suey is a comforting, tomato based ground beef and macaroni casserole not the Chinese American stir fry you might be thinking of. It’s more like a goulash or macaroni and beef, a real stick-to-your ribs kind of dish that's been a family favorite for generations.
This recipe aims for that classic, nostalgic flavor profile, so don't expect sweet and sour sauce here, mate!
Can I make this American Chop Suey recipe ahead of time? I'm juggling work and family like a circus act!
Absolutely! American Chop Suey is a champion of make ahead meals. Prepare it completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave.
You might need to add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems a little dry after being refrigerated, right-o?
I'm trying to watch my waistline. Are there any healthier variations I can make to this American Chop Suey recipe?
You betcha! You can lighten things up by using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, reducing the amount of pasta, and loading up on veggies like extra bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Also, swap out regular pasta for whole wheat elbow macaroni for added fiber.
To cut down on the sodium, use low-sodium crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Small changes, big impact, as they say!
My kiddo is a picky eater. What are some sneaky ways to get more vegetables into this American Chop Suey?
Ah, the picky eater challenge! You're not alone! Finely dice vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms and sauté them with the onions and bell peppers they'll practically disappear into the sauce.
You can also puree some cooked butternut squash or sweet potato and stir it into the sauce for extra nutrients and a subtle sweetness. It's all about being a bit of a culinary ninja, isn't it?
Can I freeze this American Chop Suey recipe? I'm all about batch cooking for future me!
Freezing is a cracking idea! American Chop Suey freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer safe containers or bags. Be sure to leave a little headspace, as liquids expand when frozen. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as usual. It’s like giving your future self a big hug from the past!
What's the secret ingredient to elevate my American Chop Suey recipe from good to amazing?
That's the million dollar question, innit? While this American Chop Suey recipe is delicious, I swear adding a dash of smoked paprika or a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end really deepens the flavor. Also, and this is a game changer, adding the worcestershire sauce provides an umami richness that's just divine.
Give it a go you might just surprise yourself!
