Name: American Chop Suey
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups tomato sauce (natural); 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (natural); 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

If you are searching for a satisfying, easy-to-make dinner that brings a cozy, nostalgic touch to your weeknight, look no further than American Chop Suey. This dish combines tender pasta, smoky turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, and a luscious tomato sauce (natural) to create a flavor-packed meal everyone will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this classic comfort food in no time, perfect for busy evenings or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Preparation: From start to finish, this recipe takes less than 40 minutes, making dinner stress-free.
Delicious Comfort Food: The combination of smoky, savory flavors with hearty pasta feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs or whatever you have in your pantry.
Rich in Flavor: The tomato sauce (natural) paired with smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cheese creates a well-rounded, satisfying taste.
Family-Friendly Favorite: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for any household gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This American Chop Suey recipe uses simple ingredients, each chosen to bring bold flavor and great texture to the dish. From the smoky turkey bacon adding depth to the hearty elbow macaroni and rich tomato sauce (natural), every component works together in harmony.

Elbow Macaroni: The traditional pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully for every bite.
Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor without overpowering the dish.
Onion: Provides sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds freshness and a little crunch for texture contrast.
Garlic Cloves: Boosts the savory depth with vibrant flavor.
Tomato Sauce (natural): Serves as the rich, tangy base that ties everything together.
Diced Tomatoes (natural): Add extra juiciness and texture.
Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce: Brings umami and complexity.
Plant-Based Cheese: Melts smoothly, giving a creamy finish without heaviness.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Fresh Basil or Parsley: Optional garnish for a bright herbal note.

Variations for American Chop Suey

One of the best things about American Chop Suey is how easily it adapts to your preferences or pantry supplies. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make it your own comfort dish.

Vegetarian Version: Skip smoked turkey bacon and add mushrooms or lentils for a hearty alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
Extra Veggies: Toss in zucchini, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Plant-Based Twist: Use vegan plant-based cheese and double up veggies for a fully plant-based meal.
Herb-Infused: Swap basil for oregano, thyme, or rosemary to change the flavor profile slightly.

Easy American Chop Suey Recipe to Try Tonight

How to Make American Chop Suey

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. This keeps the pasta firm so it does not turn mushy once combined with the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add smoked turkey bacon pieces and cook until crispy and browned. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Pour tomato sauce (natural) and diced tomatoes (natural) into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes to develop rich flavors.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni and smoked turkey bacon back into the skillet. Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the vibrant tomato sauce (natural). Sprinkle plant-based cheese on top and allow it to melt into the mixture, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the cheese is melted and everything is nicely combined, adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Making American Chop Suey

Al Dente Pasta: Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain the ideal texture in the final dish.
Layer Flavors: Taking time to sauté onions and peppers properly enhances the overall taste.
Simmer Sauce Well: Allow tomato sauce to simmer for a deeper, richer flavor instead of rushing the process.
Use Quality Ingredients: Good tomato sauce (natural) and fresh vegetables make a big difference.
Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld perfectly.

How to Serve American Chop Suey

Garnishes

Finish the dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or add a sprinkle of extra plant-based cheese to enhance flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair American Chop Suey with a crisp green salad, garlic bread made with olive oil and herbs, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the dish in a large communal bowl for family-style dining, or portion it into individual ramekins topped with extra plant-based cheese for an elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and the dish reheats wonderfully.

Freezing

You can freeze American Chop Suey in portion sizes for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to restore moisture if needed.

FAQs

What is American Chop Suey?

American Chop Suey is a hearty pasta dish typically made with elbow macaroni, a tomato-based sauce, meat like smoked turkey bacon, and cheese, coming together for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit smoked turkey bacon and add plant-based protein options or extra vegetables to keep the dish filling and delicious.

What type of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is traditional and works best for its shape and ability to hold sauce, but other short pasta like rotini or penne can be used if preferred.

Is American Chop Suey spicy?

This dish is typically mild, but you can easily add heat with crushed red pepper flakes or spicy seasonings to suit your taste.

How can I make it more creamy?

Adding extra plant-based cheese or a splash of plant-based milk during the final step enhances creaminess without making the dish heavy.

Final Thoughts

American Chop Suey is a true classic that fits perfectly into any home kitchen, offering comfort and warmth in every bite. Whether you stick to the original or experiment with variations, this easy recipe will quickly become a favorite weeknight go-to. So grab your skillet, gather those simple ingredients, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of American Chop Suey tonight!

American Chop Suey

Author: Marcus
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

American Chop Suey is a comforting and easy-to-make dinner featuring tender elbow macaroni, smoky turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, and a luscious tomato sauce (natural). This flavorful dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family meals, and is versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. This keeps the pasta firm so it does not turn mushy once combined with the sauce.
Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add smoked turkey bacon pieces and cook until crispy and browned. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Pour tomato sauce (natural) and diced tomatoes (natural) into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes to develop rich flavors.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and smoked turkey bacon back into the skillet. Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the vibrant tomato sauce (natural). Sprinkle plant-based cheese on top and allow it to melt into the mixture, stirring occasionally.
Final Touches: Once the cheese is melted and everything is nicely combined, adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.