NANA’S AMERICAN CHOP SUEY

An Introduction to Nana’s American Chop Suey

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a big bowl of Nana’s American Chop Suey. This classic dish, with its rich tomato sauce and hearty pasta, is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner, it’s a recipe that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and the love that goes into them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a delightful blend of savory flavors and textures. With its combination of tender ground meat, vibrant bell peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit different tastes, whether you prefer beef or turkey.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 2 lbs of ground beef or turkey
• 2 minced cloves of garlic
• ½ large diced green bell pepper
• ½ large diced red bell pepper
• 1 large diced yellow onion
• 1 tsp of sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 ½ cups of water
• ½ cup of beef broth
• ⅓ cup of olive oil
• 2 (15 ounce) cans of tomato sauce
• 2 (15 ounce) cans of diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp of Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp of Adobo seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp of seasoned salt
• ½ tbsp of black pepper
• 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, sauté the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is half cooked.
2. Add the garlic, onions, bell peppers, and olive oil to the skillet. Cook until the peppers are softened.
3. Pour in the water and beef broth, followed by the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, black pepper, sugar, and Adobo seasoning. Stir until well combined.
4. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Mix in the uncooked elbow macaroni until well combined.
6. Simmer covered for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious American Chop Suey!

Tips for Success

• Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
• Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, particularly salt and pepper.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe is rich in protein and vitamins from the vegetables, providing a wholesome meal that keeps you full and satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this dish? Yes, American Chop Suey freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

I hope you give Nana’s American Chop Suey a try and experience the comforting flavors of this beloved dish. It’s perfect for cozy dinners with family and friends. If you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Feel free to share your experiences and any creative twists you’ve added!