American Chop Suey is a comforting, hearty dish loved across the United States, especially in New England. Despite its name, it does not originate from traditional Chinese cuisine. Instead, it’s an American creation, blending macaroni, ground beef, and a savory tomato sauce. It’s a popular dish due to its simplicity and the nostalgic comfort it brings, making it a staple in many homes and potlucks.
Servings: Serves 6 people
Appliances/Utensils:
- Large frying pan
- Large Pot for boiling
- Wooden Spoon and spatula
- Cutting Board
- Sharp knives
- Can opener
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Chop the onion and bell pepper on a cutting board using sharp knives.
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Brown the ground beef in a large frying pan over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
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Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
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Boil the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Combine the cooked macaroni with the sauce in the frying pan. Mix well using a wooden spoon.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover until the cheese melts.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a healthier version, use ground turkey instead of beef.
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Add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition.
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For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Estimated Time:
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cooking time: 25 minutes
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Total time: 40 minutes