Spice lovers, listen up! This Spicy American Chop Suey Recipe packs a punch of cozy comfort with just the right amount of heat, making it a weeknight favorite you can whip up without breaking a sweat.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This spicy twist on classic American Chop Suey is one I turn to when I want something hearty, satisfying, and with a flare of bold flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and guess what? It’s surprisingly easy to make.
- Quick and Simple: You’ll get a full, filling meal on the table in about 30 minutes — perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Heat: The combination of seasonings and a hint of spice really elevates this dish beyond traditional Chop Suey.
- One-Pot Wonder: There’s minimal cleanup since everything cooks in a single pot, saving you time and hassle.
- Customizable: You can easily tailor the recipe to your taste preferences or what's in your fridge — I’ll share my favorite tweaks below!
Ingredients & Why They Work
This recipe balances familiar pantry staples with fresh veggies and a punch of savory seasonings. Each ingredient plays its role to build a comforting, layered flavor profile with that signature American Chop Suey vibe.
- Ground beef: I use 85% lean for the best mix of flavor and fat — it’s juicy but not greasy.
- Italian seasoning: Adds that herby, aromatic touch that ties the tomato base together.
- Seasoned salt and garlic powder: These boost the savory depth without overpowering.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, making the sauce rich and vibrant.
- Onion, green pepper, celery, and garlic: Classic veggies that add crunch, sweetness, and a little bite.
- Worcestershire sauce: Brings a subtle umami tang that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
- Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce: The saucy heart of the dish — fresh and comforting.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and adds a gentle savory base.
- Elbow macaroni: The nostalgic pasta shape that holds the sauce well.
- Cheddar cheese (optional): Adds melty richness for the cheese lovers.
Make It Your Way
I love how forgiving this Spicy American Chop Suey Recipe is — it’s pretty versatile, so feel free to make it your own. Personally, I throw in a little frozen jalapeño from the freezer or swap some ground beef for Italian sausage when I want a deeper flavor profile.
- Variation: Adding cream cheese at the end is a secret trick I learned that gives the sauce a luscious, creamy texture that everyone raves about.
- Diet-friendly tweak: Swap elbow macaroni for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a fiber boost.
- Seasonal twist: Toss in frozen peas or corn when tomatoes are out of season for an added pop of sweet crunch.
- Heat level: Adjust the spice by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce; start small and build up!
Step-by-Step: How I Make Spicy American Chop Suey Recipe
Step 1: Brown and Season the Meat
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until nicely browned — about 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease so your dish doesn’t get greasy. Then toss in the Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and tomato paste. Stir it well to coat the meat evenly. This step builds a robust base flavor that’s crucial for a good Chop Suey.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Next, add diced onions, green peppers, and celery into the pot. Cook them down for about 4 minutes until they soften but still have a bit of bite. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for another minute—be careful not to let it burn, as garlic can turn bitter quickly. This veggie mix adds freshness and balance to the hearty meat.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and give it a good stir until everything is combined. Then add Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), and the chicken broth. Stir well to bring all the ingredients together. The liquid will cook down and infuse the pasta and meat with lovely flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Right in the Pot
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover the pot and let it cook for 4 minutes. Uncover and gently scrape the bottom with a spatula to prevent sticking. Cover partially and continue simmering for another 4 minutes. Repeat the spatula scrape, then cook for 2-3 additional minutes—taste a noodle to check for doneness. This gradual cooking method keeps the pasta perfectly tender without getting mushy.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
Finally, if you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it in gradually while stirring to achieve a melty, cheesy finish. I always recommend shredding your own cheese from a block for the best melting quality—trust me, it makes a difference! Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy, comforting meal.
Top Tip
From cooking this Spicy American Chop Suey Recipe dozens of times, I’ve gathered a few tricks that help the dish shine and save you stress.
- Don't Skip the Spatula Scrape: Running your spatula along the pot’s bottom during cooking keeps barley sticking and burning, which could lead to a bitter flavor.
- Cheese Temperature Matters: Use room temperature cheese for smooth melting; cold cheese can clump oddly.
- Adjust Broth as Needed: Different broths have varying salt levels — add gradually and taste to avoid an overly salty dish.
- Beat the Pasta Mush: Keeping a gentle boil rather than a rolling one prevents overcooked, gummy macaroni.
How to Serve Spicy American Chop Suey Recipe
Garnishes
I usually love topping my bowl with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A little extra shredded cheddar on top never hurts either—especially when it’s still warm and melty. For an extra kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Side Dishes
Since this meal is pretty hearty on its own, I like to pair it with something light and crunchy like a simple green salad or roasted broccoli. Garlic bread also complements the tomato-rich sauce beautifully if you want a cozy, carb-loaded combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners or casual gatherings, I sometimes serve this dish in individual mini cast iron skillets. It feels extra special and keeps the food piping hot at the table. You could even layer it with cheese in a casserole dish and bake it until bubbly for a totally different twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before storing, I recommend letting the dish cool slightly to avoid condensation, which can make it watery.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it’ll last up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers slowly in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir often to keep the pasta from sticking, and if you want that cheesy vibe back, sprinkle some fresh cheddar during reheating and cover briefly to melt.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms, and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep that rich flavor.
Start with a small amount of hot sauce or fresh jalapeños and gradually taste as you go. Remember, it’s easier to add heat than to tone it down, so add spice little by little.
Definitely! Both methods work great. For the slow cooker, brown your meat first, then combine everything except pasta, cooking for a few hours before adding pasta toward the end. For Instant Pot, follow sauté steps, then pressure cook pasta with liquids for about 5 minutes.
Sharp cheddar is my go-to because it melts well and adds a nice tang. Avoid packaged pre-shredded cheese if you can — it usually contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy American Chop Suey Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen rotation — it’s that perfect blend of nostalgic comfort with a little extra kick that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that's easy to customize, you’re going to love making this your own. Grab your skillet, invite your favorite spice, and enjoy!
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Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
American Chop Suey is a classic hearty pasta casserole featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato sauce with vegetables. This comforting dish is quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1.5 lbs. ground beef, 85% lean
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
Vegetables
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced green pepper
- 1 stick celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained
- 16 oz. tomato sauce
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth, or beef broth
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional
Instructions
- Brown Beef: Cook and crumble the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Drain excess grease to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste: Stir in Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and tomato paste until well combined.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, green pepper, and celery to the pot. Cook for 4 minutes until vegetables soften. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Add Sauces and Broth: Pour in tomato sauce and stir thoroughly. Then add Worcestershire sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Bring mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the pot and cook for 4 minutes. Uncover and gently run a silicone spatula along the bottom to lift any settled ingredients.
- Continue Cooking: Partially cover the pot and boil gently for another 4 minutes. Run the spatula along the bottom again to prevent sticking.
- Finish Cooking Pasta: Heat uncovered for 3 more minutes or until macaroni is tender when tasted. Turn off heat and allow pasta to absorb remaining liquid.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, gradually sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese into the hot mixture, stirring continuously until melted and combined.
- Serve: Dish out the American Chop Suey warm and enjoy your comforting meal.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, add 1 tablespoon of flour to the ground beef after browning and cook for 1 minute before adding other ingredients.
- Stir in a dab of softened cream cheese at the end for extra creaminess.
- Add a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Mixing ground beef with Italian sausage enhances flavor complexity.
- Feel free to incorporate frozen vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, or jalapeño peppers for more nutrition and texture.
- To avoid clumpy processed cheese, shred cheese from a block and let it come to room temperature before adding.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
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