American Chop Suey Tomato Soup Recipe

Let’s dive into the world of comfort food. If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, there’s one classic dish that never disappoints-American Chop Suey Tomato Soup. A fusion of flavors with a satisfying texture, this dish combines the rich, savory goodness of pasta with the tangy depth of tomato soup. Often hailed as a ’throwback’ comfort food, it’s perfect for any time of the year, whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a breezy fall day. The combination of soft pasta, a robust tomato base, and a medley of savory ingredients creates a meal that is both satisfying and heartwarming.

Now, we’re not talking about a complicated, time-consuming dish here. American Chop Suey Tomato Soup is all about simplicity-using ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. It’s the kind of meal that brings a family together at the dinner table, offers leftovers that taste even better the next day, and leaves you feeling full and content.

So, let’s get to the heart of the matter-how to make this flavorful, hearty dish at home. Ready to start? Let’s go!

American Chop Suey Tomato Soup Recipe

Here’s how you can whip up this American Chop Suey Tomato Soup in your own kitchen, step by step. It’s an easy recipe that anyone can master, even if you’ve never cooked before. The beauty of this dish is that it’s flexible, forgiving, and allows room for creativity without losing its comforting essence.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a comprehensive list of the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious soup. Nothing too fancy, but each element contributes to the comforting nature of this dish.

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any short pasta you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 onion, finely chopped (a classic base for any soup or stew)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (to add that aromatic touch)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (this will be the heart of your tomato base)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (adds richness to the soup)
• 2 cups beef broth (for a deeper flavor)
• 1 cup water (you can adjust this for a thicker or thinner consistency)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for a tangy kick)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (for an earthy, aromatic undertone)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (classic Italian flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances out the acidity of the tomatoes)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup ground beef or turkey (this is optional, but adds a satisfying meatiness)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

If you like your soup with a little more texture, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or even throw in some peas for extra color and flavor.

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil The Pasta

   • In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

2. Prepare The Soup Base

   • In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.

3. Cook The Ground Meat (Optional)

   • If you’re using ground beef or turkey, add it to the pot now. Brown the meat thoroughly, breaking it into small pieces with your spatula. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

4. Create The Tomato Soup Base

   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add 1 cup of water to adjust the consistency as you prefer.
   • Season with Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

5. Combine The Pasta With The Soup

   • Once the soup base is rich and flavorful, add the cooked pasta to the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the soup’s flavor.

6. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top for that gooey, melty finish. You can also add a pinch of fresh basil or oregano as a garnish.

Ingredient Insights

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for American Chop Suey, elbow macaroni has the perfect size and shape to hold onto the sauce while absorbing the flavors. You could swap it with penne or rotini if you want a bit more texture.
• Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: The combination of these two forms the backbone of the soup’s tangy base. The diced tomatoes give it some texture, while the tomato sauce provides that smooth, comforting consistency. Feel free to experiment with different varieties of tomato products-fire-roasted tomatoes, for example, could add a smoky depth to the dish.
• Beef Broth: The beef broth deepens the overall flavor, adding richness and umami. If you’re looking for a lighter version, chicken broth or vegetable broth can also work well.
• Ground Beef or Turkey: This adds protein and a savory component to the dish, but you could easily make this soup vegetarian by leaving it out or replacing it with plant-based ground meat.

Expert Tips

• Customize the Seasoning: Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to seasoning. Taste the soup throughout cooking and adjust the salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to make sure it’s just right. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Want to make it extra cheesy? Mix in some shredded cheese directly into the soup for a creamy, indulgent experience. Mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of cheeses all work wonderfully.
• Make it Ahead: This dish can easily be made a day ahead. In fact, like many soups, the flavors tend to develop even further after sitting in the fridge overnight. Simply reheat on the stove, adding a bit more broth if it thickens up too much.
• Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend some of the soup and then stir it back into the pot. A hand blender works great for this.

Recipe Variations

While the base recipe is absolutely delicious, don’t hesitate to play around with it. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat entirely, and you can pack in more veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. A plant-based protein, like lentils or chickpeas, can add an extra boost of nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a tablespoon of hot sauce to bring some heat. You could also add a sprinkle of chili powder or smoked paprika for extra depth and warmth.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a little heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy twist. This will give the soup a velvety smooth texture and a richer flavor.
• Italian Touch: Add a handful of fresh basil or a few tablespoons of pesto for a fresh, herby finish.

Final Words

American Chop Suey Tomato Soup is more than just a dish-it’s an experience. It’s one of those recipes that brings people together around the table, with the aroma filling the house, setting the stage for a cozy and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, preparing lunch for the week, or just craving a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe delivers on every front.

It’s versatile, forgiving, and filled with flavors that will warm your soul. Plus, it’s an affordable and easy meal that you can make with basic pantry ingredients. What more could you want?