One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey (American Chop Suey)

A classic American dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes! With simple ingredients like ground beef, elbow macaroni, hearty veggies, and a rich tomato sauce, One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey is packed with flavor, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia. It’s the perfect family-friendly meal for busy nights!

There’s something about a hearty, saucy dinner that feels like a warm hug on a busy night. It’s rich, flavorful, and fills the kitchen with that irresistible home-cooked aroma. One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey is one of those classic meals that never goes out of style. With tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a tomato sauce that clings to every bite, it’s pure comfort in a bowl.

This dish is truly simple and delicious. Everything cooks together in one pot, which means the pasta soaks up all the bold, rich flavors as it simmers. No extra pots, no endless cleanup—just one pot of deliciousness that’s ready in 30 minutes! The hearty veggies add color, texture, and a touch of freshness, making each spoonful more satisfying than the last.

I love how this meal brings a little nostalgia to the table. It’s the kind of dinner that reminds you of childhood family meals, but it’s timeless enough to become a staple in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner rush or a night when you just want something simple and familiar, One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey is always the right choice.

Serve it on its own for a complete meal or pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a little extra something. No matter how you serve it, it’s a dish that’s sure to bring everyone back for seconds!!

If you love quick and easy one-pot pasta meals – you’ll also enjoy Macaroni and Cheese, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Hamburger Helper, and Zucchini and Tomato Penne Pasta.

The Ultimate One-Pot Comfort Meal

When it comes to classic American dinners, few dishes are as iconic as Beef and Tomato Chop Suey (also called American Chop Suey or American Goulash). Rooted in the tradition of hearty, family-friendly meals, this beloved recipe has stood the test of time. Originally made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce, it’s a dish that’s all about comfort, flavor, and nostalgia. Over the years, it’s evolved to include fresh veggies and seasonings, making it even more delicious and satisfying.

Our One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey takes this timeless favorite and makes it even easier. With tender elbow macaroni simmered right in the savory tomato sauce, every bite is filled with rich, hearty flavor. Ground beef adds that signature heartiness, while fresh veggies bring color, texture, and freshness to every spoonful. And since it all cooks in one pot, cleanup is a breeze—no extra dishes to wash, just one pot of pure, cozy goodness.

This is the kind of meal that feels like a warm welcome at the end of a long day. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with the flavors you know and love. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nostalgic taste of home, One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey is always a winner.

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey EVERY TIME!

When it comes to nailing the perfect One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey, it’s all about balance. You want tender pasta, flavorful beef, and a rich tomato sauce that coats every bite. With everything cooking together in one pot, timing and technique are key to getting it just right.

Here are some tips to ensure your One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey turns out perfectly every time:

• Pick the right pasta – Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for this dish. Its small, curved shape allows it to soak up the rich tomato sauce, giving you flavorful bites from start to finish. Look for pasta that cooks in about 8-10 minutes so it’s perfectly tender by the time the sauce thickens.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Since the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, it’s important to keep an eye on it. You’ll want it to be al dente—tender with a slight bite. If it cooks too long, it can turn mushy, so start taste-testing a couple of minutes before the cooking time ends.
• Season as you go – For the most flavorful Chop Suey, don’t wait until the end to adjust the seasoning. Add a little salt and pepper as the dish simmers. This way, every layer of flavor gets a chance to shine. Before serving, give it one final taste and adjust as needed.

Follow these simple tips, and you’ll have a bowl of hearty, flavorful One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey every time. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!!

INGREDIENTS FOR One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey

This hearty, family-favorite meal is packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients that come together to create a comforting one-pot dinner. Every part of it makes this dish oh-so-satisfying.

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients!

• Elbow Macaroni is the heart of this dish. Its small, curved shape is perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it cooks right in the pot, absorbing every bit of the savory goodness.
• Lean Ground Beef brings hearty, savory flavor and protein to the dish. As it cooks, it releases delicious juices that blend into the sauce, making it extra rich and flavorful.
• Yellow Onion adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish. As they cook down, they become soft and aromatic, creating the perfect base for the sauce.
• Bell Pepper adds freshness, crunch, and a pop of color to the dish. It balances out the richness of the beef and sauce with its natural sweetness.
• Vegetable or Beef Broth is the liquid that helps cook the pasta right in the pot. It infuses the macaroni with flavor as it simmers, creating a rich, savory base for the sauce.
• Marinara Sauce is the star of the sauce. Its rich, tomato-packed flavor ties everything together, coating the pasta, beef, and veggies with a perfectly seasoned, saucy finish.
• Grapeseed Oil is used to sauté the onions, bell pepper, and beef, helping to create a flavorful base for the sauce. Its light, mild flavor lets the other ingredients to shine.
• Salt and Pepper bring all the flavors together. They enhance every ingredient, from the beef to the veggies to the sauce, making each bite pop with delicious flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese is the final touch that takes this dish from tasty to irresistible. Sprinkled on top while the dish is still warm, it melts into a gooey, cheesy layer that makes every forkful even more comforting.

HOW TO MAKE One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey

This hearty, one-pot meal is simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Each step builds layers of flavor, from the savory ground beef to the rich tomato sauce and tender elbow macaroni. And since everything cooks in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!!

Here’s how you can make this family-favorite dinner:

STEP 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. You want to brown the meat until it’s no longer pink. As the beef cooks, it releases juices and fat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.

If you’re using veggie ground instead of beef, follow the same process. Since veggie ground doesn’t release fat, there’s no need to drain it. So, just set it aside when it is cooked.

STEP 2: Sauté the Onions and Bell Peppers

In the same pan, add a splash of grapeseed oil (if needed) and toss in the diced yellow onions, bell peppers, salt, and pepper. Cook everything over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the onions cook, they become soft, sweet, and slightly golden, while the bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch. This step builds the perfect aromatic base for the sauce.

Be sure to keep an eye on the onions so they don’t burn. Once they’re softened and just starting to brown, you’re ready for the next step.

STEP 3: Make the Sauce and Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the marinara sauce, broth, cooked ground beef (or veggie ground), and uncooked elbow macaroni to the pan. Give everything a good stir to make sure the pasta is fully coated in the flavorful sauce.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan with a lid (or use aluminum foil if you don’t have a lid) and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. As it cooks, the pasta will absorb the broth and sauce, soaking up all those delicious flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

You want to cook the macaroni until it’s al dente—firm but tender. Once the pasta is perfectly cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, your One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey is ready to serve!

Serve it straight from the pot, top it with cheddar cheese if you like, and watch it disappear in no time!!

What to Serve with One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey

One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey is hearty, flavorful, and filling all on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, there are so many delicious sides and dessert options that pair perfectly with it.

Start with a fresh, crisp contrast by serving a simple green salad. A mix of leafy greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch to the meal. You can enjoy it with balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing.

Pasta dishes always go well with garlic bread. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the chop suey. You can also add warm dinner rolls or a crusty baguette for that extra comfort factor.

For dessert, a light and fruity option is always a winner. A fresh fruit salad with watermelon, pineapple, and berries adds a burst of natural sweetness. You can also enjoy a light berry salad or frozen yogurt. If you’re craving something more indulgent, warm chocolate cake or apple pie cake bites are a satisfying treat.

Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have a comforting and delicious dinner.

Jazz Up Your One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey!

One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey is a true classic, but if you’re looking to switch things up, there are so many fun and flavorful ways to customize it. With just a few simple additions, you can transform this dish into something fresh and exciting!!

Here are some tasty ways to jazz it up:

• Add Extra Veggies – While bell peppers and onions bring bold flavor and crunch, you can easily add more veggies to the mix. Mushrooms, zucchini, or shredded carrots blend in beautifully, adding color, texture, and a little extra nutrition. If you love leafy greens, stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end.
• Boost with Protein – Ground beef is a classic, but if you’re looking to switch up the protein, you have options! Swap in ground chicken, ground turkey, or even veggie crumbles for a lighter or plant-based option. You can also stir in cooked chickpeas or black beans for a hearty twist.
• Season it Up – Add a sprinkle of your favorite spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. For a smoky, spicy kick, try adding smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
• Add More Cheese – Cheese makes everything better!! Stir in mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend for a creamy, melty upgrade. Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top right before serving for that irresistible gooey, cheesy finish.
• Switch Up the Sauce – Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a hint of soy sauce for a savory, umami boost. If you’re craving a touch of sweetness, a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of barbecue sauce will bring a whole new flavor to the mix.

With these simple additions, you can give One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey a fresh flavor every time you make it. Whether you’re craving something cheesier or just a little different, there’s always a new way to make it your own!!

How to Store Leftover One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey stores easily. And you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day. You can keep it fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. But honestly, this dish is so good, it’ll probably be gone long before that!!

When it’s time to reheat, you have two easy options. For the stovetop, warm it over medium-low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to its saucy, delicious self. For a quick option, pop it in the microwave. Heat it in short intervals, stirring halfway through to ensure it warms up evenly.

What to Do with Leftover One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey

Leftover One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey is a dinnertime win!! With so much flavor packed into every bite, it’s easy to turn those leftovers into a brand-new meal that’s just as tasty as the original.

Here are a few tasty ways to use your leftovers:

• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out fresh bell peppers and stuff them with your leftover chop suey. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top, bake, and enjoy a veggie-packed meal.
• Savory Beef Quesadillas: Use your chop suey as a filling for quesadillas! Spoon it onto a tortilla, add cheese, and fold it in half. Cook it in a pan or bake until the tortilla is golden and crispy on both sides.
• Hearty Beef and Noodle Soup: Turn your chop suey into a comforting soup! Add it to a pot with some broth, fresh veggies, and a handful of spinach or kale. Simmer until everything is hot and steamy.

With so many tasty options, those leftovers can become a delicious new meal. You can easily have a brand new meal that just as tasty the second time around!!

After you make One-Pot Beef and Tomato Chop Suey, add a comment below and give it a star rating! I love hearing how much your family enjoys it, too.

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