Nana'S American Chop Suey
Nana's American Chop Suey is a hearty, flavorful pasta dish featuring ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop and fry onion and green pepper; add ground beef and brown.
- Drain off fat.
- Add mashed drained tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and celery salt; simmer for 1 hour or more.
- Mix the sauce with cooked elbow macaroni.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding chopped mushrooms or zucchini to the mix. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially the basil and parsley, for a more vibrant flavor. This dish is a classic in American recipes, showcasing comfort food at its best.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nana's American Chop Suey hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Cocktail Rye Tidbits as an appetizer or a light dessert afterward.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover American Chop Suey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. It can also be microwaved in a covered dish, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S American Chop Suey contains roughly 210 calories, with 9g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), potassium (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1961mg per serving (85% 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 different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta types, like penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the substitute pasta. The key is to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your American Chop Suey, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. Additionally, a few dashes of hot sauce can enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. Adjust to your spice preference for the perfect kick.
Is it possible to freeze American Chop Suey?
Absolutely! American Chop Suey freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
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).