Italian Chop Suey
A hearty Italian-inspired dish combining ground beef, bacon, vegetables, and spaghetti in a savory, flavorful stew perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the onion, celery, and green pepper with the ground beef in a skillet.
- Cook until the vegetables are barely done, adding as little water as possible.
- Add the cooked bacon, lima beans, stewed tomatoes, and spaghetti to the mixture.
- Simmer until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, ground turkey can replace the beef. Fresh lima beans can be used if you prefer them over canned. To enhance the dish, add Italian herbs such as basil or oregano, which align with traditional Italian recipes for a more authentic taste.
Serving Suggestions
Italian Chop Suey pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This dish can also be enjoyed with a glass of red wine, complementing the savory ingredients perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between, to ensure even heating without drying out the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Chop Suey contains roughly 413 calories, with 20g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (220% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 780mg per serving (34% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Italian Chop Suey ahead of time. Cook it fully, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute for ground beef. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and beans to maintain a hearty texture without meat.
Is it possible to freeze Italian Chop Suey?
Absolutely! You can freeze Italian Chop Suey for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove or microwave for best results.
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).