Easy American Chop Suey Recipe for Dinner

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together quickly and satisfies every time, this easy American Chop Suey recipe is just what you need. Whip up a comforting American Chop Suey with smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, and a rich tomato sauce for a quick dinner that will warm your soul and please your taste buds. This classic American dish combines tender pasta, savory meat, and flavorful tomato goodness for an unbeatable dinner experience that’s perfect any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses accessible pantry staples and fresh produce to create amazing flavor.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comfort Food Classic: Reminds you of home-style cooking with each satisfying bite.
• Plant-Based Cheese Twist: Adds creamy texture and richness with a plant-based twist.
• Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike for its familiar comforting flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this American Chop Suey recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From savory smoked turkey bacon to the vibrant tomato sauce and melty plant-based cheese, these essentials come together effortlessly.

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta choice that holds sauce beautifully and cooks quickly.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds smoky, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
• Diced Onions: Provides sweetness and texture to the hearty sauce.
• Minced Garlic: Enhances flavor with aromatic warmth.
• Green Bell Pepper: Offers a mild crunch and fresh, bright taste.
• Canned Tomato Sauce: Forms the rich, saucy base for the dish.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds fresh bursts of flavor and a nice texture contrast.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Boosts umami and complexity without overpowering.
• Dried Italian Herbs (natural): Infuses the sauce with essential savory notes.
• Plant-Based Cheese: Melts into the dish perfectly for a creamy finish.
• Olive Oil: A light and fragrant base for sautéing.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors beautifully.

Variations for American Chop Suey

Feel free to get creative and adjust this American Chop Suey recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s easy to swap ingredients or add your own twist without losing any of that comforting charm.

• Protein Swap: Try ground turkey or plant-based ground meat to keep it lean or vegan.
• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice Level: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a gentle kick or mild paprika for smoky warmth.
• Saucy Twist: Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced for a smoother sauce texture.
• Cheese Choice: Substitute with your favorite plant-based shredded cheese flavors like mozzarella-style or sharp cheddar-style.

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 until just tender, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Toss in diced onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce

Pour canned tomato sauce and diced tomatoes into the skillet. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), dried Italian herbs (natural), salt, and pepper. Simmer gently to blend the flavors, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni directly into the sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat every piece with that rich tomato goodness.

Step 5: Melt the Plant-Based Cheese

Sprinkle a generous amount of plant-based cheese over the pasta mixture, stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy, indulgent texture that ties the dish together wonderfully.

Pro Tips for Making American Chop Suey

• Al Dente Pasta: Under-cook the pasta slightly as it will continue to soften when mixed with sauce.
• Layer Flavors: Don’t rush the sauce; simmer to develop depth.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds brightness that can’t be replicated with powders.
• Customize Texture: Adjust diced tomatoes size depending on whether you want chunky or smooth sauce.
• Serve Hot: This dish tastes best right off the stove, so plan to serve immediately.

How to Serve American Chop Suey

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and fresh aroma that lifts the whole dish.

Side Dishes

Crisp green salads or garlic bread (plant-based) are perfect complements, adding variety and crunch alongside the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins with extra plant-based cheese on top or layer it in a casserole dish for a cozy baked version that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to enjoy as quick lunches or second dinners with the same delicious flavor.

Freezing

Freeze in portions for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of water if sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for American Chop Suey?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, penne, rotini, or even shells work beautifully and hold the sauce well.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, by choosing plant-based cheese and skipping smoked turkey bacon or replacing it with plant-based alternatives, this dish easily becomes vegan-friendly.

How spicy is American Chop Suey?

This recipe is mild but can be adjusted by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your heat preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep it safe for sensitive diets.

What can I add to make it more nutritious?

Adding in veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can boost nutrient content without changing the familiar flavor you love.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re making dinner for your family or meal prepping for the week, this easy American Chop Suey recipe is a true winner. It’s comforting, adaptable, and so satisfying with its rich tomato sauce, smoky turkey bacon, and melty plant-based cheese. Give it a try you’ll be delighted at how quickly such a simple dish can become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

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