Garbage Chop Suey
A hearty, flavorful pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain off excess fat.
- Saute chopped onions, garlic, green pepper, celery, and mushrooms in a frying pan.
- Mix the cooked vegetables with the browned beef, tomato paste, spaghetti sauce, and oregano.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper for heat or substituting ground turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or mushrooms instead of beef. You can also swap out the olives for capers if desired. Make sure to use a large pot for cooking the macaroni to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Garbage Chop Suey hot, topped with shredded Mozzarella cheese that melts beautifully. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to maintain moisture. This dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garbage Chop Suey contains roughly 690 calories, with 31g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (199% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1691mg per serving (74% 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?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your preference.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you're looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian dish, consider using black beans or a meat substitute like tempeh. Both options will still provide a satisfying texture and flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe itself is not inherently spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat level. If you enjoy a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. Always taste as you go to achieve your desired 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).