American Chop Suey Ii
American Chop Suey II is a hearty, comforting pasta dish with savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a tomato-based sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the gemelli noodles in salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Meanwhile, cook the ground beef in a frying pan until browned.
- Add diced green pepper, sliced onion, and diced celery to the pan with the beef and cook until tender.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and simmer for a few minutes.
- Return the cooked noodles to the pan with the vegetables and sauce, mixing well.
- Heat through before serving. For leftovers, add a little milk if the dish is dry.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding a can of drained black beans or kidney beans for added protein and fiber. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. Feel free to customize the vegetables; mushrooms or zucchini can be great additions. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to include your favorite ingredients from American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve American Chop Suey II hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a different twist. Explore more American recipes to find complementary dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to prevent the noodles from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of American Chop Suey Ii contains roughly 233 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute gemelli noodles with other pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions to ensure it's cooked al dente.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance the flavors.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving can also boost the flavor profile of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).