When life feels like a whirlwind, I crave the comfort of a warm meal—a dish that wraps around me like a soft blanket on a cold night. Enter Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey with Tomato Sauce and Elbow Macaroni—an easy, one-pot wonder that brings back memories of family dinners and shared laughter around the table. This recipe is a delightful fusion of tender elbow macaroni and savory ground beef, all simmered in a velvety tomato sauce that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.
Whether you’re looking to please picky eaters or simply want a flavorful meal that won’t take hours, this comforting classic is the answer to your weeknight woes. With its customizable nature, you can easily add your favorite veggies or swap proteins, making it a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into a dish that promises to transform your kitchen into a delightful haven for family and friends!
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey
Comforting, this dish is like a warm hug for your soul, bringing back nostalgic flavors that make every bite a joy. Customizable to suit any palate, you can easily add vegetables or switch proteins for a unique twist. Time-saving, this one-pot meal simplifies cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Budget-friendly, it uses economical ingredients that don’t compromise on flavor, ensuring you can feed your family without breaking the bank. Crowd-pleasing, its familiar taste appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it an easy choice for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting dish everyone will love!
For the Pasta
- Elbow Macaroni – This classic shape provides the perfect bite; feel free to substitute with shells or rotini for a fun twist.
For the Meat Mixture
- Lean Ground Beef – Offers rich flavor and protein; for a lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully.
- Onion (chopped) – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
For the Sauce
- Condensed Tomato Soup – Provides the creamy, tangy base; consider swapping with homemade tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes to freshen it up.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing out flavors; adjust these seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Optional Add-ins
- Vegetables (bell peppers, spinach) – Boost nutrition and color; add them during the skillet cooking stage for even cooking.
- Shredded Cheese – Topping with cheese and broiling creates a delicious, crispy finish; make it any cheese you love!
This Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey is a versatile recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a cozy, family-friendly dish that warms the heart!
How to Make Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey
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Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
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Sauté Meat and Onions: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add chopped onion and ground beef. Sauté for 5-10 minutes, until the beef is browned and onions are tender. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!
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Mix in Tomato Soup: Stir the condensed tomato soup into the beef mixture and lower the heat. Let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the drained macaroni into the tomato-beef mixture. Stir until everything is well integrated and the pasta is coated in the sauce.
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Season and Serve: Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, ensuring everyone enjoys this cozy dish!
Optional: Top with grated cheese before broiling for a deliciously crispy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists that will elevate your comforting dish into something uniquely yours!
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Veggie Delight: Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for an extra nutritional punch and vibrant colors.
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Creamy Cheddar: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese into the mix before serving for a gooey, cheesy goodness that kids love.
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Spicy Kick: Throw in a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to make the dish pop with heat.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the sauce for a fragrant twist that elevates the entire flavor profile.
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Hearty Goulash: Swap out the elbow macaroni for penne or ziti and add diced tomatoes for a goulash-style upgrade.
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Turkey Twist: Opt for ground turkey or extra-lean beef for a lighter take that still satisfies.
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Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible to everyone while preserving that comforting flavor.
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Saucy Addition: Replace the condensed tomato soup with a blend of marinara and cream for a richer, smoother sauce that wraps around every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to four days. This allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors again without compromising freshness.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Be sure to cool completely before sealing to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or tomato sauce to restore creaminess.
Leftovers: Enjoy your Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey as a quick lunch option too! It makes for a satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes.
Expert Tips for Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey
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Perfect Pasta: Ensure you cook the elbow macaroni until al dente; undercooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with sauce.
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Flavorful Meat: Sauté the ground beef until nicely browned; this adds depth to the Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey.
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Drain Well: Don’t skip draining excess fat from the meat; this prevents your dish from becoming greasy and keeps the flavors bright.
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Fresh Add-ins: If adding vegetables, mix them in with the beef to ensure even cooking—a great way to boost nutrition!
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Custom Seasoning: Tailor the salt and pepper to your preference, and consider adding garlic powder or Italian herbs for extra flavor.
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Save for Later: Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to four days, making it a handy make-ahead option for busy nights.
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey dishes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal prep! You can prepare the ground beef and onion mixture up to 3 days ahead; just sauté them until fully cooked, then let it cool before transferring to an airtight container in the refrigerator. The condensed tomato soup can also be mixed in at this stage; this way, flavors have longer to develop. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture on the stove, add your cooked macaroni (which can be made up to 24 hours beforehand), and season to taste. This approach not only saves you time but ensures your family enjoys a comforting meal with just a few finishing touches!
What to Serve with Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey?
Elevate your weeknight dinner with delightful sides that perfectly complement this comforting classic.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: The perfect companion, this adds a satisfying crunch and buttery flavor that offsets the saucy nature of the chop suey. Dip it into the dish’s cozy tomato sauce for a fulfilling experience!
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Fresh Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad introduces a burst of crunch and coolness, balancing the warmth of the hearty dish. Toss with a simple vinaigrette for a zesty touch.
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Roasted Broccoli: Packed with nutrients and a little bit of smokiness, roasted broccoli enhances the meal’s health factor while adding a pop of vibrant green color to your plate.
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Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy coleslaw brings a delightful crunch, cutting through the richness of the chop suey. The contrast in texture makes every bite exciting.
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Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Indulgent and comforting, these mashed potatoes bring a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce. Every forkful provides a cozy embrace of flavors.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp. The gooey apples and crunchy topping complement the savory flavors while providing that comforting, homestyle essence.
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Chilled Lemonade: Refreshing and zesty, a glass of chilled lemonade balances the warmth of the hearty homestyle American chop suey, making it an excellent drink choice.
These pairings not only enhance your meal but also create a delightful dining experience that your family will cherish.
Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey Recipe FAQs
What type of elbow macaroni should I use?
Absolutely! You can use standard elbow macaroni, but if you’re feeling adventurous, substitute it with shells or rotini for a fun twist in shape and texture.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to four days. Just make sure they’re cooled down before sealing to maintain that comforting flavor for your next meal!
Can I freeze Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey?
Very much so! Freeze the portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Before sealing, allow the dish to cool completely to avoid freezer burn. This makes it an ideal option for meal prep!
How should I reheat the frozen chop suey?
To reheat, thaw the frozen portion overnight in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, warm it up in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water or tomato sauce to restore its creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re preparing this dish for someone with dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Also, you can add or omit vegetables according to allergies or preferences. For a gluten-free version, replace the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
Can I add extra veggies to the dish?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers or spinach can be added during the cooking stage with the ground beef for even cooking. This is a great way to boost nutrition while still enjoying a hearty meal.
Hearty Homestyle American Chop Suey with Tomato Sauce Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Meat and Onions: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add chopped onion and ground beef. Sauté for 5-10 minutes, until the beef is browned and onions are tender.
- Mix in Tomato Soup: Stir the condensed tomato soup into the beef mixture and lower the heat. Let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the drained macaroni into the tomato-beef mixture. Stir until everything is well integrated.
- Season and Serve: Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.