American Chop Suey in Crock Pot: Easy Comfort Food for Busy Families

When it comes to comforting family dinners that satisfy everyone at the table, few dishes can compete with American Chop Suey in Crock Pot. This hearty, flavorful meal combines tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, vegetables, and pasta into one delicious slow-cooked dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a comforting classic.

Unlike traditional stovetop versions, making crock pot American chop suey allows the flavors to slowly develop throughout the day, creating a richer and more satisfying meal. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to focus on other tasks while dinner practically cooks itself.

Whether you grew up enjoying this New England favorite or you’re discovering it for the first time, this easy American chop suey recipe delivers classic comfort food with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

What Is American Chop Suey?

American Chop Suey is a classic American comfort food dish that combines ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables into a hearty one-pot meal. Despite its name, the dish has no connection to traditional Chinese chop suey. It originated in New England and has remained a beloved family dinner for generations.

The dish is sometimes known as goulash in other regions of the United States, although recipes can vary. The defining characteristics are elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce.

Using a slow cooker takes this classic recipe to the next level by allowing the ingredients to meld together slowly, creating deep flavors and tender textures.

Why You’ll Love This American Chop Suey in Crock Pot Recipe

There are countless reasons why this recipe deserves a place in your meal rotation:

• Easy slow cooker preparation
• Family-friendly flavors
• Budget-conscious ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep
• Freezer-friendly leftovers
• Minimal hands-on cooking time
• Great for feeding large groups
• Rich and comforting flavor

The slow cooker method also eliminates the need to constantly monitor the dish, making it ideal for busy households.

Ingredients

For the American Chop Suey

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to the crock pot.
3. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the slow cooker.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente.
8. Drain the pasta and add it to the crock pot.
9. Stir thoroughly to combine the pasta with the meat sauce.
10. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
11. Cover and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese melts.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Why the Crock Pot Method Works So Well

The slow cooker creates an ideal environment for developing flavor. As the beef, vegetables, herbs, and tomato sauce simmer together for hours, the ingredients release their natural flavors and become deeply integrated.

The onions soften completely, the peppers become tender, and the tomato sauce develops a rich, slightly sweet complexity that simply can’t be achieved in a quick stovetop version.

Additionally, slow cooking helps prevent the sauce from becoming watery while creating a thicker, more satisfying consistency.

Tips for Perfect Crock Pot American Chop Suey

Brown the Beef First

Although some slow cooker recipes allow raw meat to be added directly, browning the beef first creates significantly better flavor and texture.

Cook Pasta Separately

Adding uncooked pasta directly to the slow cooker can lead to mushy results. Cooking it separately ensures perfectly tender macaroni every time.

Use Fresh Vegetables

Fresh onions and bell peppers provide better flavor and texture than frozen alternatives.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Cook the macaroni until just al dente since it will continue softening slightly when mixed into the hot sauce.

Adjust Thickness

If the sauce becomes too thick, add additional beef broth. If it’s too thin, leave the lid off for the final 20 minutes of cooking.

Delicious Variations

Cheesy American Chop Suey

Double the cheese and stir half directly into the sauce for an extra creamy texture.

Spicy Version

Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce for extra heat.

Vegetable-Packed Version

Include mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor.

Italian-Inspired Version

Add mozzarella cheese and Parmesan along with extra Italian herbs.

Turkey American Chop Suey

Replace ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty meal pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:

• Garlic bread
• Dinner rolls
• Caesar salad
• Garden salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed broccoli
• Green beans
• Coleslaw

For larger gatherings, serve buffet-style with multiple toppings such as shredded cheese, parsley, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

Meal Prep Benefits

One reason families love slow cooker American chop suey is its meal prep versatility.

You can:

• Prepare vegetables the night before
• Brown beef ahead of time
• Store ingredients in the refrigerator until cooking day
• Portion leftovers into individual meal prep containers

The flavors often improve the next day, making leftovers especially delicious.

Nutritional Benefits

While American Chop Suey is classic comfort food, it also provides several nutritional advantages:

Protein

Ground beef supplies high-quality protein that helps keep you satisfied.

Vegetables

Onions and peppers contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Energy

Pasta provides carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Calcium

Cheddar cheese adds calcium and protein.

Balancing the meal with a fresh salad creates a complete and satisfying dinner.

Fun Fact About American Chop Suey

Despite being one of the most beloved comfort foods in New England, American Chop Suey remains somewhat regional. In other parts of the country, similar dishes may be called goulash or beef macaroni. Regardless of the name, the combination of pasta, beef, and tomato sauce has become a staple of American home cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put uncooked pasta in the crock pot?

It is possible, but cooking it separately produces the best texture and prevents mushiness.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the sauce in advance and add freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is traditional, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend also work wonderfully.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes. Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

This American Chop Suey in Crock Pot recipe is everything a comfort food dinner should be—warm, hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying family meal that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing meals for the week, or looking for an easy dinner solution, this crock pot American chop suey is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

American Chop Suey in Crock Pot

A hearty slow cooker American Chop Suey made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese for an easy family-style comfort food dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Main Ingredients

• 2 lb ground beef
• 1 yellow onion diced
• 1 green bell pepper diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 30 oz tomato sauce two 15-ounce cans
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups elbow macaroni cooked separately until al dente
• 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley optional garnish

Equipment

• Crock pot
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Pot for pasta
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
2. Transfer the cooked ground beef to the crock pot.
3. Add diced onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Mix thoroughly until the beef, vegetables, and sauce ingredients are evenly combined.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours, or until the sauce is rich and the vegetables are tender.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, cook elbow macaroni separately according to package directions until al dente.
8. Drain the pasta well and stir it into the crock pot mixture.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 28gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 890mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 12IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 18mg

Notes

For the best texture, cook the pasta separately and add it near the end of cooking. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of beef broth before serving. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!