American Chop Suey: A Cozy, One-Pot Classic Everyone Loves

American Chop Suey is the kind of comforting meal that proves a simple combination of pasta, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese can become something truly satisfying. Despite its name, this dish is an American comfort-food creation rather than the Chinese-American stir-fry often associated with “chop suey.”

It is hearty, inexpensive, family-friendly, and especially convenient for busy evenings. The pasta absorbs the rich tomato sauce while the ground beef adds savory depth, creating a filling meal that tastes even better after the flavors have had time to come together.

The best part is how flexible it is. You can keep it traditional and simple or add vegetables, extra cheese, herbs, or a little heat to make it your own.

Ingredients

For about 6 servings, you will need:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar, optional, to balance acidic tomatoes
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella, optional
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

How to Make American Chop Suey Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Before turning on the stove, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure the seasonings.

Having everything ready makes the cooking process much easier because the ground beef, aromatics, and sauce can be built in quick succession.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef

Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.

Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is thoroughly browned.

If there is a large amount of excess fat in the pot, carefully drain some of it. Leave a small amount behind because it contributes flavor to the sauce.

Step 3: Add the onion

Add the diced onion to the browned beef.

Cook for approximately 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften and become translucent.

This step gives the dish a sweeter, deeper flavor and creates a flavorful foundation for the tomato sauce.

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