Chop Suey Dish
A hearty, comforting casserole blending ground beef, spaghetti, onions, and tomato flavor, topped with melted cheddar—perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and pour off fat.
- Saute onions in 3 tablespoons of butter.
- In 2 quarts of water, add 1 cup of broken spaghetti with 1 teaspoon salt and boil until done; drain spaghetti.
- Combine cooked beef, onions, spaghetti, tomato soup, water, and grated cheese in a baking dish.
- Bake slowly at 325°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers while sautéing the onions. If you want a healthier option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for a nutritious twist. For added creaminess, mix in some grated cheese before baking. Adjust the tomato soup with spices like oregano or basil for a personalized taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chop suey dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Beef Sandwiches for a heartier dining experience. For a touch of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice to your salad. Consider offering a variety of condiments like hot sauce or grated Parmesan for guests to customize their plates.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover to keep moisture in. This dish freezes well too; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chop Suey Dish contains roughly 521 calories, with 30g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1738mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type. Shorter pastas might need less boiling time, while longer shapes will require a bit more. The key is to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before combining it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of water and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance flavor and texture. This makes for a hearty and satisfying vegetarian version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions. You can also mix in some diced green chilies with the tomato soup for an extra kick. If you enjoy spicy food, consider serving with a side of hot sauce for those who want to customize their spice level.
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).