Mom’s American Chop Suey: A Comforting Classic
This beloved recipe, affectionately dubbed “Mom’s American Chop Suey,” harkens back to a simpler time in family kitchens, offering a nostalgic taste of comfort food that has been cherished by generations. While the original version may seem a bit bland to modern palates, its straightforward ingredients and preparation allow for plenty of customization to suit your taste. This dish has been a staple in our family, with the oldest sibling now 71 years old and the youngest at 55, and it continues to evoke warm memories of shared meals and family gatherings. So, let’s dive into this classic recipe, and feel free to spice it up as you see fit!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 package |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Green bell pepper | 1 medium |
| Tomato soup | 2 cans |
| Water | 2 soup cans |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | ½ pound |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Cayenne pepper | Optional, to taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Content | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 544.7 kcal |
| Total Fat | 17.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 53.7 mg |
| Sodium | 606.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 66.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Sugars | 8.9 g |
| Protein | 29.9 g |
Cooking Instructions
-
Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by heating a large pot of water on the stove. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it until al dente, following the package instructions for timing. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside in the pot, leaving it ready for the other ingredients. -
Brown the Meat and Vegetables
In a separate skillet, add the ground beef and allow it to brown over medium heat. As it cooks, add in the diced onion and chopped green bell pepper. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even cooking, and once the meat is fully browned and the vegetables are tender, drain any excess fat from the pan. -
Combine Ingredients
Return the drained spaghetti to the pot. Into this pot, add the cooked meat and vegetable mixture along with the two cans of tomato soup. Using the empty tomato soup cans, fill them with water and add this to the mixture as well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together gently to ensure that the spaghetti is well-coated with the sauce. -
Heat Through
Place the pot over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Allow it to heat through until everything is warmed up, approximately 5-10 minutes. If desired, add cayenne pepper to taste for a bit of extra kick. -
Serve with Cheese
Once heated through, remove the pot from the heat. Before serving, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly from the residual heat. -
Enjoy
Serve your American Chop Suey warm, either on its own or with a side salad or crusty bread. This dish is perfect for family gatherings and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, just as it has been for our family over the years.
Customization Tips
Feel free to make this recipe your own! You can add in your favorite vegetables, switch up the type of cheese, or even incorporate spices that resonate with your taste. Whether you prefer it spicier or just as is, this dish can adapt to your palate while still delivering that classic, comforting feel that makes it a family favorite.
Conclusion
Mom’s American Chop Suey stands as a testament to the simple pleasures of home cooking. It captures the essence of nostalgia while offering a hearty meal that everyone can enjoy. With its rich flavors and the ability to customize, it’s a dish that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart, reminding us of the love and care that goes into every family recipe.
