Easy American Chop Suey Recipe to Try Tonight

If you are searching for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dinner, this American Chop Suey recipe is just what you need. Made with smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cheese, it combines familiar flavors with a generous dose of warmth and heartiness. Whether you are new to this classic American comforting bowl or revisiting a beloved dish, this recipe brings convenience and rich taste together in one skillet, making it a perfect meal to try tonight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together quickly without sacrificing flavor.
• Hearty and satisfying: Packed with smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cheese to keep you full and happy.
• Family favorite: A dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and seconds.
• Quick prep: Takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This American Chop Suey recipe is all about fresh, simple, and flavorful ingredients that combine to build a comforting, textured dish. Each ingredient brings its unique role in boosting taste, texture, or that inviting color that makes this recipe so irresistible.

• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a smoky, savory depth and crisp texture that enhances the overall dish.
• Macaroni pasta: Provides the classic chewy bite and base for soaking in all the rich flavors.
• Onions and bell peppers: Offer sweetness and bright color, balancing savory notes perfectly.
• Canned crushed tomatoes: Create a rich and tangy tomato sauce that ties the dish together beautifully.
• Garlic: Infuses warmth and aromatic complexity throughout the dish.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Lends a subtle umami punch to deepen the sauce’s flavor.
• Plant-based cheese: Melts smoothly to add creaminess and richness without overpowering.
• Fresh herbs: Including basil or parsley for an aromatic lift and fresh finish.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing to bring out the best flavors in the veggies and smoked turkey bacon.
• Natural gelling agent: Adds just the right texture to the sauce, keeping it luscious and perfectly thickened.

Variations for American Chop Suey

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel empowered to make it your own! Whether you want to adjust for different dietary choices or add new flavors, you can customize American Chop Suey easily and with tasty results.

• Vegetable-packed version: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to sneak in extra nutrients and color.
• Spicy twist: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a gentle heat boost.
• Protein swap: Use smoked turkey slices for a leaner protein alternative with the same smoky goodness.
• Cheese upgrade: Try different plant-based cheese varieties for a new creamy experience.
• Gluten-free pasta: Replace regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta for sensitive diets.

How to Make American Chop Suey

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water, then cook the macaroni pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and then add chopped smoked turkey bacon. Cook until crispy and fragrant, then add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until veggies are softened and the aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

Pour in canned crushed tomatoes and stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), natural gelling agent, and a splash of grape juice. Let this simmer gently to blend flavors and thicken the sauce beautifully while maintaining a fresh, tangy richness.

Step 4: Combine and Melt Cheese

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, fold in the cooked pasta and sprinkle the plant-based cheese over the top. Stir to melt the cheese fully, creating a creamy, velvety texture that binds the dish perfectly.

Step 5: Final Touches

Finish with fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley. Give everything a gentle toss and then serve hot, with that wonderful inviting aroma ready to delight everyone at your table.

Pro Tips for Making American Chop Suey

• Cook pasta al dente: This prevents mushiness once the pasta combines with the sauce.
• Use fresh herbs: They brighten the dish and add layers of fresh flavor just before serving.
• Don’t rush the sauce simmer: Slow simmering melds flavors and gives a richer taste.
• Add smoked turkey bacon early: To allow fat render and infuse the sauce with smoky undertones.
• Adjust thickness with natural gelling agent: Add a small amount incrementally for your preferred sauce texture.

How to Serve American Chop Suey

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil brightens the plate and adds color contrast that’s delightful. You can also add a little extra grated plant-based cheese for an indulgent finish.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty skillet meal with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil or toasted garlic bread on the side to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots add a nice touch of sweetness and texture balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting family style meal, serve the American Chop Suey directly from the skillet garnished with fresh herbs. Alternatively, scoop the dish into individual colorful bowls and top with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprig of herb to impress your guests with simplicity and charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next meal just as delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for warm, comforting meals later on.

Reheating

Reheat left over American Chop Suey gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or grape juice to revive the sauce’s creaminess and stir occasionally to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes for American Chop Suey?

Absolutely! Elbow macaroni is traditional, but small shells, penne, or rotini all work well and give the dish a fun twist.

Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?

Yes, this recipe is mild, comforting, and easily customizable to suit different tastes by adjusting vegetables or spices.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, by using plant-based cheese the recipe becomes completely dairy-free without losing that creamy texture.

How spicy is American Chop Suey?

The recipe is mild by default but can be easily made spicier by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce according to preference.

What can I substitute for smoked turkey bacon?

You can use smoked turkey slices or even plant-based bacon alternatives for different textures and flavors.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a quick comfort meal or a new twist on a classic favorite, this American Chop Suey recipe with smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cheese is sure to become a staple. Easy to make, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Go ahead and try it tonight you won’t regret it!

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