Cozy American Chop Suey Slow Cooker Recipe

Growing up in New England, I remember the comforting aroma of American chop suey in our kitchen. It was more than just dinner; it was a warm hug that brought us together. The slow cooker method makes this beloved recipe easy and captures generations of home cooking tradition.

American chop suey in a crock pot is the ultimate slow cooker comfort food. It turns simple ingredients into a hearty meal that touches the soul of home cooking. Whether you’re a busy parent or someone craving a nostalgic taste, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Key Takeaways

• Perfect weeknight dinner solution
• Minimal prep, maximum flavor
• Authentic New England comfort food
• Easy slow cooker method
• Versatile and family-friendly recipe

Understanding American Chop Suey Origins

The story of new england chop suey is a fascinating journey through American comfort food history. This beloved dish is more than just a simple meal. It’s a culinary tradition deeply rooted in the Northeast’s working-class kitchen culture.

American goulash emerged as a budget-friendly, hearty meal. It could feed families without breaking the bank. Unlike its Chinese-American namesake, this dish is purely an American creation with unique regional characteristics.

New England’s Comfort Food Heritage

In New England, chop suey became a staple. It reflected the region’s pragmatic cooking approach. Families would combine affordable ingredients to create a nutritious and satisfying meal.

• Originated in working-class communities
• Designed to maximize limited ingredients
• Represented resourcefulness in cooking

Evolution of the Classic Recipe

The recipe transformed over decades. It adapted to changing ingredient availability and family preferences. What started as a simple meat and pasta dish grew into a versatile comfort food.

“A true reflection of American culinary creativity” – Food Historians

Cultural Significance in American Cuisine

American chop suey represents more than nutrition. It symbolizes community, resourcefulness, and the immigrant experience. It shows how limited resources can be transformed into delicious meals.

Outside New England, similar dishes are known as American goulash or Johnny Marzetti. This shows the recipe’s widespread appeal across different regions.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Dish

Making authentic American chop suey needs the right slow cooker ingredients. These ingredients blend to create a comforting meal. They turn simple items into a tasty dinner for your family.

• 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 pound elbow macaroni

Seasoning is key to great flavor. My favorite mix includes:

• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

“The secret to a great American chop suey is balancing your ingredients and letting them simmer to perfection.”

Adding optional ingredients can enhance your dish. Try these:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
• 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce for heat
• 4 ounces cream cheese for a creamy finish

Pro tip: Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process to ensure a perfectly balanced American chop suey.

Equipment Needed for Slow Cooking

Preparing American Chop Suey needs the right kitchen tools and equipment. My guide will help you find the essential gear for this tasty comfort food.

Choosing the Right Slow Cooker Size

Finding the perfect slow cooker size is key for your chop suey recipe. Think about these factors when picking your crock pot:

• Family size (2-4 people: 3-4 quart slow cooker)
• Larger families (4-6 people: 5-6 quart slow cooker)
• Meal prep or entertaining: 6-7 quart slow cooker

Additional Kitchen Tools for Chop Suey

Some kitchen tools make cooking American Chop Suey easier. Here are my top picks for crock pot accessories:

1. Heavy-bottomed large pot
2. Sharp chef’s knife
3. Cutting board
4. Wooden spoon
5. Measuring cups and spoons

Optional Equipment Recommendations

These tools are not must-haves but can make cooking better:

• Digital meat thermometer for checking ground beef temperature
• Slow cooker liner for easy cleanup
• Pasta strainer
• Kitchen timer

“The right tools can transform your cooking from ordinary to extraordinary!” – Home Cooking Enthusiast

Preparing Your Ingredients

Mastering meal prep tips is key to making a tasty American Chop Suey in your slow cooker. Getting your ingredients ready right can make all the difference. I’ll guide you through the important steps to ensure your dish is perfect.

First, collect all your ingredients to make your slow cooker recipe prep easier. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (15 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning

Proper ingredient preparation involves several key steps:

1. Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking
2. Measure out all dry and wet ingredients beforehand
3. Brown ground beef to enhance flavor depth
4. Drain excess fat from meat

“Preparation is the secret ingredient that transforms a good meal into a great one.” – Professional Chef

I suggest preparing your ingredients 15-20 minutes before cooking. This makes your slow cooker recipe prep smooth and efficient. Keep your workspace organized and have all tools ready for a stress-free cooking experience.

Ground Beef Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right ground beef is key for a tasty American Chop Suey in your slow cooker. The meat is the base, adding flavor and protein to each bite.

When picking the best ground beef for slow cooker recipes, keep these points in mind:

• Fat content affects taste and texture
• Lean-to-fat ratio impacts overall dish quality
• Fresh, high-quality meat ensures optimal flavor

Choosing Between Lean and Regular Ground Beef

For American Chop Suey, go for ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. This mix offers great taste without being too greasy. Browning the meat for crock pot recipes seals in flavor and sets a strong base for your meal.

Proper Browning Techniques

Here’s how to get perfect ground beef:

1. Use a large skillet with even heat distribution
2. Break meat into small, uniform pieces
3. Cook over medium-high heat until no pink remains
4. Drain excess fat thoroughly

“The secret to great slow cooker recipes is creating layers of flavor from the start.” – Professional Chef

By using these ground beef selection and preparation tips, you’ll make your American Chop Suey truly special.

How to Make American Chop Suey in a Crock Pot

Making a tasty slow cooker American chop suey is simple. This crock pot pasta dish is both comforting and convenient. I’ll guide you through making a delicious meal from basic ingredients.

To begin your slow cooker American chop suey, prepare your ingredients well. The secret to a great crock pot pasta is layering and timing.

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet first
2. Drain excess fat completely
3. Transfer meat to the slow cooker
4. Add diced vegetables
5. Pour in tomato sauce and seasonings

Cooking times may differ based on your slow cooker. Here’s what I suggest:

“The magic of a slow cooker is its ability to blend flavors perfectly while you go about your day!” – Home Cooking Expert

For the best taste in your crock pot pasta, add pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This keeps the pasta just right. Your American chop suey will be creamy, delicious, and ready to serve!

Pro tip: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium tomato sauce and limit additional salt. The slow cooker method enhances flavors naturally.

The Perfect Pasta Selection

Choosing the right pasta is key for tasty slow cooker recipes. For American Chop Suey, the pasta can make or break the dish. Not all pasta types are created equal for crock pot cooking.

Elbow macaroni is the top pick for slow cooker pasta. It cooks well without getting mushy. Here are some tips for cooking pasta in a crock pot to get perfect results.

Best Pasta Types for Slow Cooking

• Elbow Macaroni: The traditional and most recommended option
• Rotini: Holds sauce well and maintains shape
• Penne: Provides good texture in slow-cooked dishes
• Shell pasta: Captures sauce in its curves

Cooking Time Adjustments for Different Pasta

For avoiding overcooked pasta, follow these crock pot tips. Pro tip: Add pasta in the last 30-45 minutes. This keeps it al dente and prevents sogginess.

“The secret to perfect slow cooker pasta is timing and the right pasta shape!” – Home Cooking Expert

Each pasta type cooks differently. Thinner pasta cooks faster, while thicker shapes need more time. Keep an eye on your dish and adjust cooking time as needed.

Look for pasta that absorbs liquid well without falling apart. Your goal is a creamy dish with intact pasta pieces.

Creating the Perfect Sauce Base

Making a great slow cooker tomato sauce is key to a tasty American Chop Suey. I’ll show you how to make a sauce base that makes your crock pot recipes stand out.

Starting with top-notch ingredients is crucial. For a rich, flavorful sauce, use:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) of petite diced tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 oz each) of tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves of minced fresh garlic

Pro tip: Balance is key in creating the perfect sauce. Adding a bit of brown sugar balances the tomatoes’ acidity. This trick enhances the flavor and makes it more complex.

“The secret to an amazing sauce is layering flavors and letting them develop slowly.” – Professional Chef

When making crock pot sauce, slow cooking is essential. It lets the flavors blend together perfectly. This slow cooking time adds deep, rich flavors to your American Chop Suey.

Make sure the sauce isn’t too thick or too thin. If it’s off, a cornstarch slurry can help. Mix 6 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 cup of water to adjust the sauce’s thickness.

Vegetable Additions and Variations

Vegetables are key to making American Chop Suey a healthy and tasty meal. Choosing the right vegetables can boost the flavor and add important nutrients to your slow cooker dish.

Traditional Vegetable Options

For years, certain vegetables have been a must in American Chop Suey. The classics include:

• Diced onions
• Green bell peppers
• Celery

These veggies give a strong flavor that goes well with ground beef and tomato sauce. Make sure to chop them finely so they mix well with the dish.

Modern Twist Vegetable Additions

Today, you can add new twists to the classic recipe. Try these modern options:

• Red bell peppers for sweetness
• Mushrooms for a rich taste
• Zucchini for extra health benefits
• Carrots for a touch of sweetness

“The secret to a great American Chop Suey is balancing traditional flavors with creative vegetable additions.”

When adding veggies, start with the hardier ones early and add the softer ones later. This helps prevent them from getting too soft.

Preparation Tips

To get the most out of your veggies in American Chop Suey:

1. Dice them all the same size
2. Sauté them before adding to the slow cooker
3. Layer them carefully

Pro tip: Roasting veggies before adding them to the slow cooker can make their flavors stronger and add richness to your American Chop Suey.

Seasoning and Spice Guidelines

Making the perfect American Chop Suey means picking the right spices for a great taste. Slow cooker seasoning tips can turn a simple dish into a masterpiece. It’s all about knowing how spices work together while cooking slowly.

• Italian Seasoning: The classic base with 1½ tablespoons of dried herbs
• Paprika (preferably hot): 1 tablespoon for depth
• Red pepper flakes: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Dried basil: 2 teaspoons
• Dried oregano: 2 teaspoons

“The secret to a memorable American Chop Suey is balancing your spices with patience and care.” – Slow Cooker Enthusiast

If you want to try new slow cooker seasoning tips, here are some ideas:

1. Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat
2. Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
3. Experiment with chili powder for a southwestern twist

Timing is key when using spices for American Chop Suey. Add dried herbs at the start to let flavors grow. Stir in fresh herbs in the last 30 minutes to keep their taste and smell fresh.

Pro tip: Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Your slow cooker changes spices differently than stovetop cooking. So, feel free to tweak things a bit.

Time and Temperature Settings

Mastering the slow cooker temperature settings is key to making perfect American Chop Suey. Knowing the right crock pot cooking times can turn a meal into a hit or a miss.

Slow cookers have two main heat settings that affect your dish’s cooking. Let’s explore the world of temperature control for this classic comfort food.

High vs. Low Heat Settings

Choosing between high and low heat depends on your schedule and cooking goals. Here’s a look at the slow cooker temperature settings:

• Low Heat Setting:
  • Cooking time: 6-8 hours
  • Ideal for tender, deeply flavored dishes
  • Perfect for busy days with limited kitchen time
• High Heat Setting:
  • Cooking time: 2-4 hours
  • Great for quicker meal preparation
  • Suitable for last-minute dinner solutions

Cooking Duration Guidelines

For American Chop Suey, I recommend careful timing and ingredient management:

“The secret to perfect slow cooking is patience and precise temperature control.” – Culinary Wisdom

Pro tip: Add uncooked elbow macaroni about 1 hour before serving. This prevents pasta from becoming mushy. It ensures perfectly cooked pasta every time.

Remember, each slow cooker is different. These guidelines are a good starting point. But always keep an eye on your dish and adjust as needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dealing with slow cooker pasta problems can be tough. But, with the right fixes, you’ll get American Chop Suey right. Knowing the common cooking issues is the first step to a tasty meal.

Let’s look at some common slow cooker pasta problems and how to fix them:

• Mushy Pasta: Add pasta during the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking
• Watery Sauce: Start with less liquid and add more as needed
• Uneven Cooking: Stir the ingredients often to ensure even heat

When you face slow cooker pasta issues, keep these tips in mind:

1. Keep an eye on the liquid levels
2. Choose pasta made for slow cooking
3. Try different cooking times and temperatures

“The secret to great slow cooker pasta is patience and attention to detail.” – Culinary Expert

Preventing problems starts with the right ingredients and knowing your slow cooker. Watch for signs of trouble and adjust quickly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing slow cooker meals is key to keeping flavors and food safe. My guide will show you how to keep your American Chop Suey tasty for later.

Proper Storage Methods

Here’s how to store your tasty dish:

• Cool the American Chop Suey completely before storing
• Use airtight containers to prevent contamination
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days maximum

Freezing Strategies

Freezing your crock pot dish is easy with the right steps:

• Separate pasta from sauce before freezing
• Use freezer-safe containers
• Label with date and contents
• Freeze for up to 3-4 months

Best Reheating Practices

Here are the best ways to reheat your crock pot dish:

1. Microwave: Use medium-high setting
2. Stovetop: Warm over medium heat
3. Oven: Reheat at 325°F for 20-25 minutes

“The key to maintaining flavor is gentle, even reheating.”

Pro tip: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating. This helps prevent dryness and keeps your American Chop Suey’s texture right.

Serving Suggestions and Sides

Choosing the right sides for American chop suey can make your meal unforgettable. The best sides balance flavors, add nutrition, and look great on your plate.

For sides, pick options that offer different textures and tastes. It’s important to find dishes that make the main course even better, not worse.

Classic Side Dish Recommendations

• Garlic bread: A crispy, buttery complement
• Southern cornbread: Adds a sweet and crumbly texture
• Green salad with red wine vinaigrette: Provides a fresh, light contrast
• Roasted broccoli: Brings a nutritious green element
• Sautéed asparagus: Offers an elegant vegetable option

Slow Cooker Meal Pairings

Pro tip: Choose sides that offer color, nutrition, and textural contrast to elevate your American chop suey dining experience.

“The right side dish can turn a good meal into an unforgettable culinary journey.” – Home Cooking Wisdom

Health and Dietary Modifications

Making healthy slow cooker recipes doesn’t mean losing flavor. American chop suey is very adaptable for different diets. It can meet many nutritional needs and tastes.

Changing the protein in this dish is crucial. You can swap ground beef for:

• Lean ground turkey
• Ground chicken
• Plant-based meat substitutes
• Lentils or textured vegetable protein

To make this dish healthier, you can cut down on fat. But keep the taste strong. Here are some tips:

1. Choose 90% lean ground meat
2. Drain fat after browning
3. Add more veggies than meat
4. Use whole grain pasta instead

Gluten-free and dairy-free versions are easy to make. Use gluten-free pasta like brown rice or chickpea pasta. For those who can’t have dairy, skip the cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

“Healthy cooking is about smart substitutions, not deprivation.” – Culinary Nutrition Expert

Modified recipes can be packed with fiber, less saturated fat, and more nutrients.

Conclusion

Exploring American Chop Suey has shown me its value as a comforting crock pot dinner. It’s made with just 1 lb of ground beef and 2 cups of pasta. This makes a meal for 4 to 6 people without spending a lot.

This recipe is simple and can be changed in many ways. It turns weeknight cooking into something enjoyable. You can make a healthy dinner with little effort, bringing families closer together.

Try different proteins or add more veggies to make it your own. It’s perfect for busy people or those who love easy cooking. You can store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

So, get your slow cooker ready and start making a meal that’s both simple and warm. It’s a great way to celebrate the joy of home cooking.

FAQ

What exactly is American Chop Suey?

American Chop Suey is a beloved New England dish. It’s made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and tomato sauce. It’s not like Chinese chop suey, but a hearty, one-pot meal. It’s rich and satisfying, with simple ingredients.

Can I make American Chop Suey in a slow cooker if I’m cooking for a small family?

Yes, you can! Slow cookers come in different sizes. For a small family, a 3-4 quart model is perfect. It ensures the right portion size and cooking results.

What type of ground beef works best for this recipe?

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best taste and texture. Leaner options like 90/10 are okay, but 80/20 is richer. Remember to drain excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.

How long does American Chop Suey take to cook in a slow cooker?

It cooks for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Cooking time depends on your slow cooker and ingredient amount.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace ground beef with lentils, TVP, or tofu. Adjust seasonings and cooking times to keep the flavor true.

What pasta works best in a slow cooker?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice. Short pasta shapes like rotini or shells also work. Avoid long pasta to prevent mushiness. Add pasta in the last 30-45 minutes to avoid overcooking.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to avoid dryness. Use the microwave or stovetop, stirring often for even heating.

Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or chickpea flour. Make sure all ingredients, including seasonings and canned tomatoes, are gluten-free.

Can I freeze American Chop Suey?

Definitely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze without pasta and add fresh pasta when reheating. Use freezer-safe containers and leave space for expansion.

What side dishes pair well with American Chop Suey?

Garlic bread, green salad, steamed veggies, or coleslaw are great sides. They add freshness and contrast to the rich dish.