The Best Homemade American Chop Suey Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade American Chop Suey is a family favorite for good reason, bringing comfort and flavor to your table effortlessly. You’ll love how simple it is to make, using pantry staples you probably already have on hand. The dish is packed with hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce that blends perfectly with every bite. It’s customizable too, so feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Recipe

Homemade American Chop Suey is a comforting and hearty dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. This classic recipe is perfect for family dinners and is easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or any small pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper (if using), and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes:
- You can substitute ground turkey or sausage for the ground beef.
- Add crushed tomatoes for a thicker sauce if desired.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
American Chop Suey offers a comforting blend of flavors while providing a balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 620mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 8g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade American chop suey with warm garlic bread—it’s perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. A fresh salad on the side adds a crisp contrast to the hearty dish, balancing the flavors. These simple pairings make the meal feel complete without taking away from the star of the show.
Garlic Bread Pairings
Garlic bread’s a classic favorite, and it’s got a way of making any meal feel complete. I love serving it with Homemade American Chop Suey—the buttery, garlicky slices soak up the sauce perfectly. For extra flavor, I sometimes sprinkle Parmesan or herbs on top before baking. Toasted garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender pasta. It’s also great for scooping up bits of meat and cheese left on your plate. Pairing it with chop suey turns dinner into a comforting feast. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this simple side—it’s a match made in comfort food heaven!
Fresh Salad Complements
While garlic bread is a hearty partner for Homemade American Chop Suey, sometimes you’re craving something lighter to balance things out. A crisp, fresh salad does the trick—think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. I love adding a handful of shredded carrots or radishes for extra crunch. If you want more substance, throw in some chickpeas or avocado. The cool, invigorating bite cuts through the richness of the chop suey perfectly. It’s simple, quick, and lets the main dish shine while keeping the meal balanced. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!