Easy American Chop Suey for Cozy Dinners

If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy American Chop Suey recipe is exactly what you need. This classic dish shines with tender macaroni, savory smoked turkey bacon, rich tomato sauce, and melty plant-based cheese (plant-based) that blends every flavor beautifully. Perfect for cozy dinners, American Chop Suey brings together simple pantry ingredients into a satisfying family favorite everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Classic: This dish offers all the nostalgic flavors of a timeless American dinner.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples you probably already have on hand.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber to keep you energized and satisfied.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different vegetables or protein options to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this American Chop Suey plays an important role, from the smoky depth of the turkey bacon to the vibrant sweetness of the tomatoes. This blend of flavors and textures creates an undeniably delicious and balanced dish.

• Elbow Macaroni: Tender pasta that holds onto the sauce perfectly.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Provide natural sweetness and acidity, brightening the sauce.
• Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that build a savory flavor base.
• Bell Peppers: For crunchy texture and a pop of color.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami taste in the sauce.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the sauce’s richness.
• Grape Juice: Adds a subtle sweetness balancing the acidity.
• Plant-based Cheese (plant-based): Melts beautifully into the warm pasta for creamy indulgence.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and bringing the ingredients together smoothly.
• Natural Gelling Agent: Helps thicken the sauce for the perfect consistency.
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and dried herbs like basil or oregano to brighten the dish.

Variations for American Chop Suey

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative and adjust it to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some popular twists you can try to make American Chop Suey your own.

• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and texture.
• Protein Swap: Substitute smoked turkey bacon with ground turkey or plant-based ground meat.
• Spicier Version: Toss in chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a gentle kick.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different plant-based cheeses for creaminess or sharpness.
• Herb Enhancements: Fresh parsley or thyme work beautifully in place of dried herbs for extra freshness.

How to Make American Chop Suey

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until just tender, usually about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, keeping it lightly coated with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the smoked turkey bacon pieces until crispy and fragrant. Remove and set aside some bacon bits for garnishing later. In the same skillet, sauté finely chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add tomato paste to the vegetables and cook for a minute to deepen the flavor. Pour in diced fresh tomatoes along with grape juice and sprinkle in the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Stir in seasonings and a pinch of natural gelling agent to thicken the sauce, allowing it to simmer and meld for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the cooked macaroni to the skillet and fold it gently into the rich tomato sauce mixture. Add the crispy smoked turkey bacon back into the pan and sprinkle in shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based), stirring just until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is combined and heated through, remove from heat and serve your warm American Chop Suey immediately, garnished with reserved bacon bits and fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Making American Chop Suey

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Prevent mushy texture by cooking macaroni just until tender but firm.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté onions and garlic first to create a strong flavor foundation.
• Simmer Slowly: Allow the sauce to simmer longer for richer depth and to thicken naturally.
• Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes brighten the flavor and add a pleasant natural sweetness.
• Don’t Overmix Cheese: Stir plant-based cheese in gently to keep the creamy texture intact.

How to Serve American Chop Suey

Garnishes

Top your American Chop Suey with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and fresh herb aroma. Reserved crispy smoked turkey bacon bits add a delightful crunchy contrast to the creamy dish.

Side Dishes

This warm and hearty meal pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli for added freshness. Garlic bread made with plant-based butter can also be a delicious and comforting companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve American Chop Suey in individual bowls with a sprinkle of extra shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based) and a pinch of red pepper flakes for an elegant yet cozy presentation. Alternatively, fill bell pepper halves with the pasta mixture and bake for a fun stuffed dish variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or vegetable broth to restore moisture, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I make American Chop Suey gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta variant, and enjoy the same comforting flavors without worry.

Is smoked turkey bacon necessary?

While smoked turkey bacon adds a lovely smoky richness, you can easily substitute it with plant-based bacon or omit it for a vegetarian-friendly version.

What can I use instead of fresh tomatoes?

Canned diced tomatoes are a convenient alternative and work wonderfully to create a flavorful sauce in this recipe.

Can I use shredded plant-based mozzarella or cheddar cheese?

Yes, either works great depending on whether you prefer a milder or sharper flavor in your American Chop Suey.

How spicy is this recipe?

This is a mild and comforting recipe by default, but you can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like a bit of heat in your meal.

Final Thoughts

Easy American Chop Suey is a truly delightful and cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With simple ingredients, rich flavors, and endless adaptability, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for family dinners and casual get-togethers. Give it a try and enjoy every bite of this classic taste with a modern, satisfying twist.

Related Posts

• Crispy Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges You’ll Love
• Crispy Feta Chicken with Hot Honey Sauce Delight
• Easy Turkey Tetrazzini Pasta Casserole Recipe

Print