American Chop Suey Non Veg Recipe Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 4, 2025

American Chop Suey is a beloved classic comfort food in many households across the United States. This hearty, flavorful dish combines tender ground meat, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce with a blend of aromatic spices and vegetables.

While the name might evoke images of Asian cuisine, American Chop Suey is a completely different, distinctly American creation that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this non-vegetarian version adds a delicious twist with ground beef or turkey for extra protein and richness.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just craving a nostalgic meal that warms the soul, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. It’s a one-pot wonder that doesn’t require fancy ingredients but delivers on flavor and comfort.

Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Let’s dive into this classic American Chop Suey non-veg recipe that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

American Chop Suey is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for beginners or anyone short on time.

The ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, so you often have what you need already on hand. The combination of ground meat, pasta, and tomato sauce creates a hearty, comforting dish that satisfies hunger and cravings alike.

This recipe is also versatile. You can swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even pork, and add your favorite vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor.

It’s a great meal prep candidate since it reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as tasty as the fresh batch. Kids and adults both tend to enjoy this dish, making it a perfect family dinner option.

If you love dishes like Bread And Gravy Recipe or Boots And Sonny’S Chili Recipe, you’ll appreciate how American Chop Suey combines comfort and convenience in a wholesome, filling meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
  • 2 cups water or beef broth

Equipment

  • Large skillet or deep sauté pan with lid
  • Medium saucepan (for boiling pasta)
  • Colander (for draining pasta)
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Grater (if shredding cheese)

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
  4. Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  5. Combine tomatoes and seasoning: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices. Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Simmer the sauce: Add water or beef broth to the mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  7. Mix in pasta: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta in the meat sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
  8. Optional cheese topping: If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts.
  9. Serve hot: Spoon the American Chop Suey onto plates or bowls and enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the meat sauce.”

  • Vegetable Boost: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
  • Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different twist.
  • Cheese Choices: Use mozzarella or provolone instead of cheddar for a milder flavor.
  • Spice it Up: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
  • One-Pot Version: Brown the meat and vegetables in the skillet, then add uncooked pasta with tomato sauce and broth. Simmer until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 450 kcal
Protein 28 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Fat 15 g
Saturated Fat 5 g
Fiber 4 g
Sodium 600 mg

Serving Suggestions

American Chop Suey is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with some fresh sides can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are excellent for soaking up the flavorful sauce, and steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans add a nice touch of color and nutrition. For a refreshing beverage, iced tea or a light beer complement the hearty flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

American Chop Suey is a timeless, comforting dish that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Its combination of savory ground meat, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce creates a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

The recipe’s flexibility allows you to adjust it to your liking, making it a versatile favorite in any cook’s repertoire.

Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this non-veg American Chop Suey recipe promises to deliver warmth and flavor with every bite. For more hearty comfort food ideas, check out our Bread And Gravy Recipe, or if you want to explore other meat-centric dishes, try the Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe.

And for something a little more adventurous, our Bluebill Duck Recipes are sure to impress.

📖 Recipe Card: American Chop Suey Non Veg Recipe

Description: A hearty American-style pasta dish with ground beef and vegetables simmered in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting family meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  6. Simmer the sauce for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix well.
  8. Cook for another 5 minutes to combine flavors.
  9. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if desired and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 40 g

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Marta K

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