Chop Suey (New England)

American chop suey is a regional pasta dish popular in New England. Whether you know it as American Chop Suey, Chili Mac, American Goulash, or even D.I.Y. Hamburger Helper, this deeply flavourful, super-comforting pasta dish is greater than the sum of its humble parts. This is a great one-pot meal that it is quick to prepare and kids love it.

1 Tbsp. Canola oil or butter
1 onion, peeled and chopped
½ green bell pepper, cored, seeded and chopped
½ red bell pepper, cored, seeded and chopped
1 lb ground beef
sea salt
black pepper, freshly ground
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
2 cups tomato juice or beef broth
2 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. raw sugar
2 cups elbow macaroni or cavatappi, uncooked

Garnish:
Worcestershire sauce
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

In a wide pan over medium heat, heat oil. Add onions and bell peppers and cook until softened.

Add ground beef and cook, breaking the meat with the back of a spoon, until lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato juice, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and sugar. Stir until combined and bring to a boil.

Add uncooked macaroni and stir to distribute. Lower heat, cover, and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until pasta is cooked.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Spoon onto serving plates and serve with Worcestershire sauce on the side and garnish with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Makes 6 servings.