Easy American Chop Suey Recipe to Try Tonight

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s quick to whip up and packed with hearty flavors, you can’t go wrong with American Chop Suey. This classic dish blends tender pasta, savory smoked turkey bacon, and a rich tomato sauce enhanced with vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Topped with melted plant-based cheese, it’s a delightful twist that makes this recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you want a satisfying, fuss-free plate. Easy to customize and full of welcoming aromas, this American Chop Suey will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and everyday produce for a fuss-free cooking experience.
• Fast Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting and Hearty: Combines tender pasta with smoky and savory flavors for a filling meal.
• Plant-Based Friendly: Uses plant-based cheese for a creamy, melty finish without dairy.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything comes together effortlessly with just a few common ingredients, each playing a role to brighten the dish with texture, color, or bold flavor. Keeping it simple makes this American Chop Suey perfect for cooks of any skill level.

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds sauce well and provides a tender bite.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds smoky, savory richness without overpowering the dish.
• Onion and Green Bell Pepper: Bring crunch and freshness for balanced flavor and color.
• Garlic Cloves: Infuses subtle, aromatic depth into the sauce.
• Crushed Tomatoes: The base of the sauce, offering natural sweetness and tang.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Boosts umami and complexity in the tomato sauce.
• Dried Oregano and Basil: Classic herbs that infuse warmth and earthiness.
• Plant-Based Cheese: Melts on top to create a creamy, satisfying finish.
• Olive Oil (natural): Used for sautéing and adding a fruity undertone.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight all components.

Variations for American Chop Suey

Feel free to put your own spin on this American Chop Suey by swapping or adding ingredients according to what you love or have on hand. It’s a super flexible meal that welcomes creativity.

• Vegetable Boost: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, smoked chicken, or plant-based meat crumbles instead of turkey bacon.
• Spicier Touch: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Cheese Variation: Try sharp plant-based cheddar or mozzarella-style for different melting textures.
• Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh parsley or thyme for fresh herbal notes.

How to Make American Chop Suey

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Turkey Bacon

Heat olive oil (natural) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Then add smoked turkey bacon pieces and cook until slightly crispy.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), dried oregano, and basil. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

Sprinkle generous amounts of plant-based cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts beautifully. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Making American Chop Suey

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly firm pasta holds up better when mixed with sauce.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley at the end to brighten flavors.
• Save Pasta Water: Helps loosen the sauce for smooth coating without making it watery.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go to achieve balanced savoriness.
• Cheese Melting: Cover the pot briefly after adding cheese for the perfect melt.

How to Serve American Chop Suey

Garnishes

Top your American Chop Suey with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and fresh aroma. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a welcoming hint of spice.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in lemon juice and olive oil (natural) for contrast or toasted garlic bread for a satisfying crunch. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts complement the hearty pasta well too.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bake the American Chop Suey in a casserole dish topped with extra plant-based cheese and breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust. Or layer it in a deep-dish pie crust for a skillet pie dish that’s perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover American Chop Suey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for quick lunches or a convenient ready-to-eat dinner.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Portion it out to make thawing and reheating simple and efficient.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if the pasta seems dry. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming.

FAQs

What is American Chop Suey?

American Chop Suey is a comforting pasta casserole featuring elbow macaroni, a tomato-based sauce, and savory meat or meat alternatives, typically topped with melted cheese for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the smoked turkey bacon and add your favorite vegetables or plant-based protein options to keep it delicious and satisfying.

Is American Chop Suey spicy?

Traditional recipes are mild, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or diced peppers if you prefer a spicier dish.

What type of plant-based cheese works best?

Melting varieties such as plant-based mozzarella or cheddar-style cheese create a creamy, gooey topping that complements the sauce perfectly.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the pasta in advance, then combine and melt the cheese just before serving for the freshest taste.

Final Thoughts

This easy American Chop Suey recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a soul-warming dinner with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. From the smoky notes of the turkey bacon to the velvety tomato sauce and melty plant-based cheese, each bite is pure comfort. Give this recipe a try tonight and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Related Posts

• Easy Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe for Cozy Nights
• Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges You Will Love
• Crispy Feta Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce Favorite

Print