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American Chop Suey Recipe – Easy One-Pot Pasta Dinner

American Chop Suey Recipe – Easy One-Pot Pasta Dinner


Description

Are you craving a hearty, cheesy, and delicious pasta dish that’s both easy to make and family-friendly? Look no further! This Classic Cheesy American Chop Suey with Ground Beef is the perfect one-pot meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in just 35 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner version)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cheesy Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:

  • Red pepper flakes – for a spicy kick.
  • Parmesan cheese – for extra richness.
  • Fresh basil or parsley – for garnish.
  • Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach – to sneak in more veggies.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (firm but cooked).
  • Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
  • Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

  • Add ground beef and break it apart using a spatula.
  • Cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes).
  • Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 4: Make the Flavorful Sauce

  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Combine Pasta & Sauce

  • Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce.
  • Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.
  • Let it simmer for 5 more minutes so the flavors blend.

Step 6: Add the Cheesy Topping

  • Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Broil for a Golden, Cheesy Finish

  • Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
  • Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
  • Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting meal!

Notes

1. How to Make it Even More Flavorful

  • Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky taste.
  • Let the sauce simmer longer for richer flavor.

2. Best Pasta for This Recipe

  • Elbow macaroni is traditional, but penne, shells, or rotini work great too.

3. How to Make it Creamier

  • Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese before adding the cheese topping.