This American Chop Suey fills the kitchen with a warm, savory aroma as beef browns in a fragrant tomato sauce dotted with onion and garlic, and the pasta cooks to a perfect al dente bite.
It is ideal for a relaxed weeknight dinner when you want something hearty and familiar, or for game day and family gatherings where you need a dish that feels special without being fussy.
SaveGrowing up, this felt like the ultimate comfort food to me, and it still wins my heart every time I make a big pot to share with friends and leftovers for cozy lunches all week.
American Chop Suey Recipe
Ingredients
Sauce and Beef
Pasta and Finish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion, and cook until soft and translucent. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned all over and cooked through. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in Tomato Paste
Sprinkle the tomato paste over the beef and onion mixture and cook, stirring, for about one minute to deepen the flavor and remove any raw taste.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if you prefer a looser texture.
- Finish with Cheese and Parsley
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if using, letting the cheese melt slightly for a creamy finish.
- Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the hot Chop Suey into bowls, top with extra shredded cheese if desired, and serve immediately with a simple salad or crusty bread.
Substitutions and variations
- Use lean ground beef or turkey for a lighter version.
- Swap in whole wheat or gluten free pasta if you prefer a different texture.
- Replace tomato sauce with marinara for a smoother sauce.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and color.
Chloe's tips
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, adding a pinch more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- For creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream when you add the tomato sauce.
- Keep the sauce on low heat to avoid scorching and to develop deeper flavor as it simmers.
How to store it
- Cool leftovers quickly, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Serving suggestions
Serve this classic dish family style for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
- Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
- Offer extra shredded cheese and black pepper at the table.
- For a lighter plate, serve over a bed of steamed vegetables.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, adding the pasta during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
Thin the sauce with a bit of reserved pasta water, beef broth, or canned tomatoes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Is this the same as American chop suey with noodles?
Yes, this recipe is a classic American version often called American chop suey, featuring small shaped pasta in a rich tomato beef sauce.
Can I freeze leftovers?
You can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce together for up to 2 to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Let's get cooking!
I hope you enjoy making this American Chop Suey as much as I do, savoring each creamy, savory bite with family and friends.
