Crowd Size Chop Suey
Crowd Size Chop Suey is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish with savory ground beef, vibrant green peppers, and rich spaghetti sauce, perfect for feeding large gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling water until done, then drain and set aside.
- Saute chopped onion and green pepper until tender.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and fully done.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce and mix with the cooked hamburger mixture.
- Combine the sauce mixture with the cooked macaroni and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Crowd Size Chop Suey, consider adding minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the beef while cooking. If you're looking for a healthier twist, swap half of the elbow macaroni for whole grain pasta or zoodles. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef. For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Crowd Size Chop Suey with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complement the dish. It also pairs beautifully with sides like El Rancho Baked Beans for a hearty meal. For an added touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crowd Size Chop Suey contains roughly 1486 calories, with 29g protein, 180g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (413% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2097mg per serving (91% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by cooking the macaroni and meat mixture. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. This method allows for better flavor melding and ensures the pasta doesn't become mushy.
What can I substitute for spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have spaghetti sauce on hand, you can use marinara or even a homemade tomato sauce. Just be sure to season it with herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to replicate the flavor profile of spaghetti sauce.
Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of the Crowd Size Chop Suey. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).