If you're a fan of the menu at this American chain of restaurants which serves a variety of foods such as burgers, steaks, pasta, and seafood then you'll love this collection of copycat recipes.
Hamburger Chop Suey
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- #16122
This easy chop suey-style recipe is made with ground beef and vegetables and served over rice. Great way to make a quick meal!
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
6 reviews
ingredients
1 large onion, sliced
1 1/2 pound ground beef
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup cold water
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 1/2 tablespoon hot water
5 stalks celery, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
3 teaspoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (12 ounce size) bean sprouts, drained
cooked rice or chinese noodles, optional
directions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and ground beef. Cook, stirring frequently, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water and stir until smooth. Set aside.
Combine the bouillon cubes and hot water in a small bowl and mix until dissolved. Add the mixture to the skillet along with the celery and pepper. Mix well, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixture to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Stir in the bean sprouts. Cook, stirring gently, for 1-2 minutes or until the bean sprouts are heated through.
Serve hot with white rice or chinese noodles, if desired.
recipe tips
Make sure the ground beef is well-browned before proceeding with the recipe. This will provide the best flavor and texture.
Slice the celery thinly so it cooks evenly.
Adjust the soy sauce and pepper according to taste.
Stir the cornstarch mixture well before adding it to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Add the bean sprouts at the end to maintain their crunch. They will be heated through very quickly.
common recipe questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or pork can be used as alternatives. Or, use plant-based meat crumbles.
Is it necessary to use cornstarch?
Cornstarch is used to thicken the sauce, but you can substitute it with flour if necessary.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of beef bouillon cubes?
You can use beef broth in place of the water or a beef bouillon paste instead of the cubes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made ahead and reheated. The flavors often meld and improve over time.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Can I freeze this chop suey?
Yes, it freezes well. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
What's the best way to serve this chop suey?
Serve over cooked white rice, brown rice, or Chinese noodles for a complete meal.
tools needed
Large Skillet: For cooking the onion and ground beef.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients such as cornstarch, water, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
Small Bowls: At least two are needed - one for mixing the cornstarch with cold water and another for dissolving the bouillon cubes in hot water.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ground beef and other ingredients in the skillet.
Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing the onion and celery.
what goes with it?
Cooked White Rice: Use the hamburger chop suey as a hearty topping over fluffy white rice, providing a neutral base that soaks up the savory sauce.
Chinese Noodles: Serve with soft, cooked Chinese noodles for a textural contrast that complements the hearty ingredients of the chop suey. The noodles will also absorb the sauce well.
Egg Rolls: Pair with crispy egg rolls for added crunch and a hint of sweetness. The deep-fried exterior contrasts nicely with the saucy filling of the chop suey.
Hot Mustard Sauce: A small side of hot mustard offers a sharp and spicy kick, balancing the savory and sweet elements of the dish.
Sesame Noodles: Serve a side of sesame noodles, which can enhance the umami flavors in the chop suey and provide a different flavor while still being in line with Asian cuisine.
Soy Sauce: A drizzle of soy sauce on top can intensify the savory flavor of the chop suey and give an extra layer of seasoning.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions as a garnish add fresh, herbal notes that brighten the dish and provide a pop of color.
Pickled Ginger: Offering pickled ginger on the side provides a tangy contrast and cleanses the palate between bites of the rich chop suey.
Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil can add heat and a depth of flavor, complementing the savory elements of the dish.
Crispy Wonton Strips: Serve crispy wonton strips on top for added crunch and to contrast the tender texture of the chop suey.
Cabbage Salad: A simple cabbage salad with sesame dressing can add freshness and a crisp texture, balancing the richness of the chop suey.
Steamed Broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli not only adds color but also provides a nutritious, slightly bitter contrast that can cut through the richness of the beef.
nutrition data
688 calories, 55 grams fat, 16 grams carbohydrates, 32 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in carbs.
A can of cream of mushroom soup can be a real dinner saver. It works great in casseroles and can turn into a sauce or gravy in a pinch.
Got leftovers? We've got recipes. 18 delicious recipes using cooked chicken (plus 9 bonus recipes!)
reviews & comments
June 6, 2020
It was my first time trying this recipe. It won't be my last. I love it! Absolutely delicious.
February 23, 2020
I have been making this since 1968; still a family favourite.
January 26, 2020
Thank you! This is exactly the recipe I have been looking for. Along with bean sprouts, it's good with bamboo shoots and water chestnuts added as well, and if you don't drain then you don't need to add water!! 😁
November 23, 2019
My husband went on and on about American chop suey his mom made in New England. Everything I pulled up was a goulash. He started looking around and found the original La Choy version, but one ingredient you could no longer find. With persistent he found this recipe and it is his mother's. Thank you!!
August 16, 2019
Awesome!!!
January 6, 2019
Yum just like my gram used to make. I was so happy to find. My grandkids love it. I did use more water than was called for. I make when Iâm not sure what to make with Hamburg. I totally recommend this.