Easy American Chop Suey for Family Dinners

If you’re craving a comfort food classic that’s quick, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Easy American Chop Suey recipe is your new go-to for family dinners. Featuring smoky turkey bacon and creamy plant-based cheese, this dish brings together simple ingredients that create a satisfying meal everyone will love. From tender pasta to rich tomato sauce, every bite is an inviting combination of textures and tastes that warms the heart and fills the table with smiles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Combines familiar flavors that feel like a warm hug after a long day.
• Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making dinner an easy event with no complaints.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Loaded with vegetables, protein, and whole grains for a well-rounded meal.
• Customizable: Easily adapted to personal tastes and dietary needs without losing its classic charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This American Chop Suey recipe keeps things simple with ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. From smoky turkey bacon adding a pop of savory goodness to plant-based cheese melting into every spoonful, each item plays its role in perfect harmony.

• Elbow Pasta: The classic base that captures sauce and ingredients effortlessly.
• Smoky Turkey Bacon: Provides a rich, smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Onions and Green Bell Peppers: Add crunch and a mild sweetness for a flavor boost.
• Garlic: A small amount packs a punch of aromatic depth.
• Diced Tomatoes: Bring fresh acidity and vibrant color to the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce: The hearty, rich base that ties everything together perfectly.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami complexity and subtle tanginess.
• Plant-Based Cheese: Melts beautifully, creamy and comforting with every forkful.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (natural): Helps balance the sauce with a slight tang.
• Seasonings: Classic herbs like oregano, basil, salt, and pepper bring it all to life.

Variations for American Chop Suey

Feel free to make this dish your own by experimenting with ingredients or adjusting it to your family’s preferences. Its adaptable nature means you can easily swap, add, or enhance the recipe without losing that classic feel.

• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles instead of turkey bacon for a different protein profile.
• Spice It Up: Throw in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a gentle kick.
• Rice or Quinoa: Substitute pasta with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free alternative.
• Cheese Variety: Try different plant-based cheeses like mozzarella-style or cheddar-style for unique flavors.

How to Make American Chop Suey

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow pasta until al dente following package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the tasty sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Smoky Turkey Bacon and Vegetables

In a large skillet, cook the smoky turkey bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and chop, then add diced onions, green bell peppers, and minced garlic to the bacon drippings, sautéing until tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar (natural), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and smoky turkey bacon back into the sauce, stirring gently to combine everything evenly. Sprinkle plant-based cheese on top, allowing it to melt into creamy goodness throughout the dish.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Give the American Chop Suey a final stir, taste for seasoning adjustments, and serve hot, straight from the skillet for an inviting family meal.

Pro Tips for Making American Chop Suey

• Perfect Pasta: Avoid overcooking pasta for the ideal texture that holds up in the sauce.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for vibrant flavor and color.
• Even Cooking: Stir frequently to prevent sauce from sticking and burning on the pan bottom.
• Cheese Melt: Cover the pan briefly after adding plant-based cheese to help it melt perfectly.
• Adjust Acidity: Add apple cider vinegar (natural) gradually to balance the tomato richness without overpowering.

How to Serve American Chop Suey

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves bring a bright, herbal aroma that complements the dish beautifully and adds a pop of color on top.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or crusty whole grain bread for scooping up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate individual servings in shallow bowls topped with extra plant-based cheese and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a pretty finish that invites diving in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover American Chop Suey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring the flavors stay fresh and vibrant.

Freezing

This dish freezes well when cooled completely; place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or drying out. Add a splash of water or plant-based milk if needed to maintain creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make American Chop Suey gluten free?

Absolutely! Swap the elbow pasta with gluten-free pasta or try rice or quinoa as tasty alternatives for a gluten-free meal.

Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?

Yes, this dish is mild and comforting, and you can customize ingredients to accommodate even the pickiest tastes.

How spicy is American Chop Suey?

Traditionally, this recipe is mild, but you can easily add spices like crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy more heat.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and reheat gently for a flavor-packed and convenient meal.

What plant-based cheese works best?

Choose a melty variety like plant-based cheddar-style or mozzarella-style for the best creamy texture in this dish.

Final Thoughts

Easy American Chop Suey is a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like home on a plate. Its quick prep and delicious results make it a staple for family dinners any night of the week. You’ll love how the smoky turkey bacon and plant-based cheese create a satisfying meal everyone asks for again and again. So grab those ingredients and give this classic favorite a try you might just discover your new all-time family hit.

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