Embodiments of the invention provide a cutting assembly for a chopper pump. The cutting assembly includes a cutting insert having a cutting blade extending radially therefrom, and an impeller having a central hub, a plurality of vanes, and an insert surface. The insert surface defines an axial recess that is dimensioned to receive the cutting insert therein. The cutting assembly further includes a cutting plate having a plate hub with a cutting extension protruding radially inward therefrom. Rotation of the impeller rotates the cutting blade past the cutting extension.