Beef American Chop Suey

If you’re looking for a comforting, filling, and nostalgic dinner, look no further than this Beef American Chop Suey. This dish is a cozy, all-in-one meal made with elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a rich tomato base. It’s the kind of recipe that satisfies everyone—from picky eaters to hungry adults—with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Though the name may suggest Asian roots, American Chop Suey is actually a classic New England comfort food that emerged in the late 19th century. It takes inspiration from Chinese-American cuisine but gives it a homestyle twist—substituting rice with pasta and simplifying the ingredient list to suit busy households. Over the years, it’s become a beloved staple in kitchens and diners across the U.S.

🍝 What Makes This Recipe So Special?

✅ One-Pot Wonder – Meat, pasta, and veggies all come together in one skillet.
✅ Weeknight Friendly – Quick to prep and perfect for busy evenings.
✅ Customizable – Easily swap beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
✅ Kid-Approved – The cheesy finish and saucy pasta are sure to win over little eaters.
✅ Leftover Gold – Tastes even better the next day!

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped (white or yellow)

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1½ tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp chopped parsley

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (not drained)

• 1 lb elbow macaroni

• Optional: shredded cheese for topping

🔪 How to Make Beef American Chop Suey

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions—but cook it al dente (about 1 minute less than stated). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 3 minutes, then drain the excess grease. Don’t worry if the beef isn’t fully cooked—it will finish cooking with the vegetables.

Step 3: Add Veggies

Toss in the chopped onion, green pepper, and garlic. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Season It Up

Add oregano, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and cook for another 3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Lower the heat and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, allowing everything to thicken and the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked macaroni into the sauce and stir everything together. Let it heat through for 3–5 more minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Spoon into bowls and, if you’d like, top with shredded cheese while it’s still hot for an extra layer of comfort.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: To soak up the savory tomato sauce.

• With a Simple Salad: Balance out the richness with fresh greens.

• In Meal Prep Containers: Perfect for next-day lunches or quick weeknight reheat meals.

🔁 Make It Your Own

• Substitute the Protein: Try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or lentils.

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

• Make It Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

• Bulk It Up: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra veggies.

🧊 Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

💬 Final Thoughts

Beef American Chop Suey is the kind of nostalgic, belly-warming recipe that brings everyone around the table. Easy to make, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor, it’s a classic that deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.