Baked Cheesy American Chop Suey II

 

🧾 Baked Cheesy American Chop Suey II

🕒 Total Time: ~1 hour

Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy

---

🧄 Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional but recommended)

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1½ to 2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (or a blend)

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

---

🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Boil Pasta:

   • Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente.

   • Drain and set aside.

3. Cook Meat & Veggies:

   • In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

   • Add onion and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.

   • Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

   • Add ground beef. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

4. Build the Sauce:

   • Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   • Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Combine:

   • Stir in the cooked macaroni.

   • Mix well to evenly coat the pasta with sauce.

6. Assemble in Baking Dish:

   • Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

   • Top evenly with shredded cheese.

7. Bake:

   • Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Garnish & Serve:

   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

---

📌 Tips:

• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy version.

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or provolone if you like variety.

• You can prep this ahead and refrigerate—just bake it a little longer if coming from the fridge.