American Chop Suey

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 medium green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
• 14½ oz canned diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)

Steps

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
2. While pasta cooks, heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot with the beef. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Add oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
7. Stir the cooked macaroni into the sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheddar cheese.