Introduction
American Chop Suey is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations. Also known as “goulash” or “beefaroni” in some regions, this hearty and flavorful meal is a staple in American households. Made with simple ingredients and easy to customize, American Chop Suey is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit different taste preferences. In this article, we will explore the history of American Chop Suey, the ingredients needed to make it, the step-by-step cooking process, variations to try, helpful tips for a perfect dish, and some frequently asked questions about this beloved recipe.
Ingredients
To prepare a delicious American Chop Suey, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 pound ground beef
2. 1 onion, chopped
3. 1 green bell pepper, diced
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
6. 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
7. 2 teaspoons sugar
8. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
9. 1 teaspoon dried basil
10. Salt and pepper to taste
11. 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious American Chop Suey:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion, green pepper, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are tender.
2. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes.
3. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet and stir until well combined. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove from heat and let the American Chop Suey sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot!
Variations
There are endless ways to customize American Chop Suey to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations you can try:
1. Add diced carrots and celery for extra crunch and nutrients.
2. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version of the dish.
3. Mix in some shredded cheese before serving for a cheesy twist.
4. Spice it up with some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick of heat.
5. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles.
Tips
Follow these tips for a perfect American Chop Suey every time:
1. Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
2. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
3. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
4. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Reheat the American Chop Suey in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Conclusion
American Chop Suey is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is a go-to option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with different variations, American Chop Suey is sure to please your taste buds and warm your soul.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
A: Yes, you can substitute other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells for a different texture.
Q: Is it necessary to use ground beef, or can I use another protein?
A: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles as a substitute for ground beef.
Q: Can I make American Chop Suey ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just store it properly in the refrigerator.
Q: How can I make American Chop Suey vegetarian?
A: Simply omit the ground meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to create a delicious vegetarian version of the dish.
American Chop Suey
American Chop Suey, also known as goulash or beefaroni, is a classic comfort food dish made with ground beef, vegetables, tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni. It is a hearty and flavorful meal that is easy to customize to suit different taste preferences.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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1 onion, chopped
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
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1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
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2 teaspoons sugar
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
Directions
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion, green pepper, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are tender.
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Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes.
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Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet and stir until well combined. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Remove from heat and let the American Chop Suey sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot!
