Easy American Chop Suey for Family Dinners

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make classic that brings smiles around the dinner table, this American Chop Suey recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with rich flavors, tender elbow macaroni, plant-based cheese, and crispy smoked turkey bacon, it’s the perfect solution for family dinners that everyone will love. This dish combines familiarity with a delicious twist to keep your weekly meals exciting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting and flavorful dish that appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Combines lean smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cheese for a healthier yet indulgent twist.
• Versatile Flavor: Easily customized with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples without sacrificing taste or quality.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the key to making this American Chop Suey shine. Each element plays a vital role, bringing balance in texture, taste, and color.

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds sauce perfectly for every bite.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory crunch without overpowering the dish.
• Bell Peppers: Freshness and vibrant color that brighten the plate.
• Onions and Garlic: Build the aromatic foundation for this hearty meal.
• Canned Tomatoes: Provide a natural tang and rich base to the sauce.
• Tomato Paste (natural): Intensifies the sauce’s flavor for delicious depth.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complexity and umami without meat-based ingredients.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash lifts and balances the rich tomato-based sauce.
• Plant-Based Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creamy texture and mild flavor.
• Olive Oil: Helps sauté ingredients while adding a subtle fruity richness.
• Italian Seasoning (natural): A fragrant herb blend that complements the tomato sauce perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors together harmoniously.

Variations for American Chop Suey

This American Chop Suey is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry or your family’s preferences. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to keep the dish exciting.

• Vegetable Boost: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
• Protein Swap: Substitute smoked turkey bacon with diced chicken sausage or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Cheese Options: Use vegan mozzarella or cheddar (plant-based) for different melting characteristics and flavors.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a little heat.
• Different Pasta Shapes: Try penne, rotini, or shells to change the bite and presentation.

How to Make American Chop Suey

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to keep warm. This prevents overcooking later when combined with sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Bacon

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic first, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Then toss in diced bell peppers and smoked turkey bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy and vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in canned tomatoes, tomato paste (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Season with Italian seasoning (natural), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently to marry the flavors and thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has developed its rich flavor, add the drained pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to coat every piece with the savory sauce. Mix in shredded plant-based cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Give the American Chop Suey a final taste to adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or extra cheese for added appeal.

Pro Tips for Making American Chop Suey

• Don’t overcook pasta: Aim for a firm but tender texture so it holds up when mixed with sauce.
• Use fresh aromatics: Fresh onions and garlic add a depth of flavor that dried powders can’t match.
• Simmer sauce low and slow: This step enhances the natural sweetness and richness of the tomatoes.
• Mix cheese off heat: Stir ring in plant-based cheese after removing from heat to maintain creamy consistency.
• Reserve pasta water: Add a splash if the sauce feels too thick for a silkier finish.

How to Serve American Chop Suey

Garnishes

Top your American Chop Suey with fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves to add a burst of color and freshness. A sprinkle of extra plant-based cheese before serving creates irresistible richness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Complement this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables to balance the hearty pasta. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls can also add a delightful crunch and soak up the delicious tomato sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve American Chop Suey in shallow bowls for an inviting, family-style meal, or create individual servings in mini casserole dishes for a cozy, personal touch. Layer the pasta in a baking dish with extra plant-based cheese and broil briefly to create a bubbly golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover American Chop Suey in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if needed to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to warm evenly and keep the plant-based cheese creamy.

FAQs

What is American Chop Suey?

American Chop Suey is a comforting pasta casserole featuring elbow macaroni, a flavorful tomato-based sauce, and savory meat or plant-based ingredients, perfect for easy family dinners.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply use vegan smoked bacon alternatives and plant-based cheese to keep this dish completely plant-based without losing any flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

The classic recipe is mild, but you can easily add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier version.

What can I substitute for smoked turkey bacon?

You can use diced chicken sausage, plant-based meat substitutes, or even omit entirely and add extra veggies or mushrooms for heartiness.

How long does American Chop Suey last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will keep well for 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Final Thoughts

American Chop Suey is a timeless dish that combines simplicity with comfort and flavor, making it a must-try for your family dinners. With its easy preparation, wholesome ingredients like plant-based cheese and smoked turkey bacon, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a quick favorite in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try tonight and watch it bring warmth and joy to your table!

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