Campbell Soup American Chop Suey Recipe

American Chop Suey-a dish that is both nostalgic and hearty-has been a favorite comfort food for many generations. While it may sound like an exotic creation, it is anything but. In fact, the name might be misleading, as this dish doesn’t have any real ties to Chinese cuisine. Instead, it’s an Americanized casserole that has been a staple in households across the country, particularly in the Northeast. Think of it as a cozy, flavorful one-pot meal that packs in pasta, ground beef, and a savory tomato-based sauce, creating the ultimate comfort experience.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. It can be made as a weeknight dinner, served at family gatherings, or even packed for lunch the next day. It’s quick, easy, and utterly satisfying, making it perfect for just about any occasion. Now, let’s dive into how you can make a classic Campbell Soup American Chop Suey recipe that’s simple, tasty, and sure to please every palate.

Campbell Soup American Chop Suey Recipe

This version of American Chop Suey utilizes Campbell’s iconic soup as a base for the sauce, making the preparation process fast and effortless. The rich, creamy texture of Campbell’s soup blends seamlessly with the other ingredients to create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove for hours-without all the wait time. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb ground beef – This is the protein base of the dish, giving it that savory, satisfying bite.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Onions add that sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the beef’s richness.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Tomato Soup – The key to the sauce. It adds sweetness, depth, and smooth texture.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup – Adds creaminess and a rich, earthy flavor.
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni – The classic pasta shape that soaks up all the sauce and adds that comforting pasta texture.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – For a melty, cheesy finish that pulls everything together.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley, more cheese, or a few dashes of hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat.

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, but make sure you don’t overcook it; you want the pasta to hold its shape and texture when combined with the sauce.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
3. Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes, until it’s softened and fragrant.
4. Mix in the Soups: Stir in the cans of Campbell’s Tomato Soup and Cream of Mushroom Soup. These soups form the base of the sauce, giving it a rich, tangy flavor from the tomato and a velvety texture from the mushroom soup.
5. Season the Dish: Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavor to suit your preferences, so don’t be afraid to taste and tweak!
6. Combine Pasta and Cheese: Stir in the cooked macaroni, ensuring it’s fully coated in the sauce. Once mixed, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and well incorporated.
7. Simmer and Serve: Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once done, remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Ingredient Insights

• Ground Beef: The richness of the beef provides the dish with a satisfying and meaty texture. You can use lean beef for a less fatty option or go for something with more marbling if you prefer extra flavor.
• Campbell’s Tomato Soup: Not just for grilling sandwiches, Campbell’s Tomato Soup is a kitchen staple that adds both depth and sweetness to the dish. Its smooth, tangy flavor is the perfect complement to the creamy mushroom soup.
• Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup: The creamy texture and savory flavor of mushroom soup are what transform this dish from a simple pasta meal to a velvety, indulgent casserole. It’s also a great thickening agent, giving the sauce its luscious consistency.
• Cheddar Cheese: The melty, gooey cheese adds that irresistible, comforting quality that makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Sharp cheddar is best, but you can experiment with other cheeses if you like.

Expert Tips

• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the soups. For a more substantial kick, you can even stir in a diced jalapeño or two when sautéing the onions.
• Use a Slow Cooker: To make the dish even more hands-off, you can prepare it in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions ahead of time, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the soups and cheese. Set it on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, and you’ll have a hearty, delicious meal waiting for you when you’re ready to serve.
• Add Veggies: For an added nutritional boost, consider throwing in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. They’ll add color, texture, and extra vitamins to your meal.
• Make it Ahead: This recipe can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before cooking. You can also freeze it for later use-just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat it on the stove or in the oven until piping hot.

Recipe Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Version: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten up the dish while still maintaining that rich, savory flavor. These options will also cut down on the fat content without sacrificing taste.
• Vegetarian Chop Suey: To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply swap out the ground beef for a plant-based protein, like lentils, crumbled tofu, or veggie crumbles. You can also load it up with your favorite veggies, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or peas.
• Vegan Option: For a completely vegan take, choose plant-based cream of mushroom soup, swap in dairy-free cheese, and use a vegan ground meat substitute. The result will be just as comforting but with none of the animal products.
• Cheesy Baked Version: Take this dish up a notch by transferring the mixture to a baking dish, topping it with more cheese, and then baking it at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Final Words

American Chop Suey is a nostalgic dish that brings together the best of comfort food in one dish. With Campbell’s soups at the heart of the recipe, you get a flavorful, rich sauce that requires minimal effort but delivers big on taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to feed a crowd, this dish is sure to please.