When it comes to busy nights, cooking can be a daunting task. But what if you could whip up a delicious meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor? Enter canned beef – a pantry staple that’s often overlooked but packed with possibilities. In this article, we’ll explore 18 hearty and satisfying recipe ideas that feature canned beef as the star of the show.
From classic comfort foods to international twists, these recipes are designed to satisfy your hunger without breaking a sweat. And the best part? They’re all made possible with just a few simple ingredients and some pantry staples. So whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on-the-go, we’ve got you covered with these 18 easy and delicious canned beef recipes for busy nights.
Easy Canned Beef Stew
Easy Canned Beef Stew
Summary: Whip up a hearty and comforting stew with just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of beef stew meat (14.5 oz)
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup of frozen peas
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 2 tbsp of tomato paste
– 1 tsp of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the canned beef stew meat, diced tomatoes, frozen peas, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Canned Beef Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this lightning-fast recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying flavorful tacos in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) beef in gravy
– 8-10 taco-sized tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Heat the canned beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Canned Beef and Potato Hash
This hearty recipe makes a delicious and satisfying meal using canned beef and potatoes. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, it’s an easy and affordable option that can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) can of beef in gravy
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the canned beef, potatoes, and onion.
3. Add butter and mix until the ingredients are well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Canned Beef Chili
This hearty and spicy chili recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and heat, making it a great comfort food for any time of the year. With minimal prep work required, this dish can be ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced beef in gravy
– 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (16 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the canned beef, red kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Canned Beef Stroganoff
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to transform canned beef into a flavorful and satisfying stroganoff dish. With minimal prep time and only a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) beef in gravy
– 1 cup cooked egg noodles
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 2 tablespoons canned beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook until thawed and tender.
3. Pour in the canned beef, beef broth, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine, heating through for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Serve the beef mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Beef and Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need something warm and satisfying in no time. With canned beef, mixed vegetables, and simple seasonings, this soup is ready to be devoured in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can (15 oz) of beef with vegetables
– 1 cup of water
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the canned soup, canned beef with vegetables, water, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Canned Beef Shepherd’s Pie
Transform canned beef into a satisfying and easy-to-make shepherd’s pie with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup of canned beef in gravy
– 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 cups of mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine canned beef, cream of mushroom soup, and frozen mixed vegetables. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the beef mixture.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Canned Beef and Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. With the convenience of canned beef and rice, it’s a great option when you’re short on time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) of canned beef in gravy
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine canned beef, cooked rice, peas and carrots, and milk. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the flavors are fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Canned Beef Pasta Bake
This Canned Beef Pasta Bake recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 1 can (14 oz) beef in gravy
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, canned beef, frozen vegetables, and cheese.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Canned Beef and Bean Burritos
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need to whip up a delicious meal in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have flavorful burritos ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef with beans in tomato sauce
– 8-10 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the canned beef mixture according to package instructions.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the heated beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
4. Add shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a burrito shape.
6. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Beef and Cornbread Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of beef stew (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onion, bell pepper, and/or mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Pour in the canned beef and stir until heated through.
4. Add the cornbread mix and water. Stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. If desired, add chopped vegetables to the skillet for added flavor.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Canned Beef and Mushroom Gravy
Get a rich and savory gravy ready in no time with this simple recipe using canned beef and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth
– 1/2 cup canned beef, drained and flaked
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the gravy thickens.
6. Stir in the flaked canned beef. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Canned Beef and Lentil Curry
A hearty and comforting curry made with canned beef, lentils, and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef in gravy, drained
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add canned beef, lentils, diced tomatoes, and water; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Canned Beef and Dumplings
This comforting recipe is a twist on traditional beef and dumplings, using canned beef for added convenience. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef in gravy
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup biscuit or dumpling mix
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine canned beef, water, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Stir in flour to thicken the mixture.
3. Add biscuit or dumpling mix to the pot and stir until combined.
4. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your lunch game with these creamy, savory quesadillas that use canned beef as a convenient shortcut.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) beef stew meat, drained
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine canned beef, cheese, onion, and jalapeño.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the beef-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Canned Beef and Onion Stir-Fry
This quick and easy recipe is a great way to get a tasty meal on the table fast. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of beef (such as corned beef or beef with onion), drained and flaked
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the flaked beef and stir-fry until heated through, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the beef and onion mixture over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Canned Beef and Tomato Macaroni
Quick Comfort Food: Canned Beef and Tomato Macaroni
This hearty recipe combines the simplicity of canned goods with the comfort of a classic macaroni dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup macaroni
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef in tomato sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain.
2. In a large skillet, combine canned beef and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and heat over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
3. Add milk and butter to the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine cooked macaroni and beef mixture in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Canned Beef and Pea Risotto
This comforting risotto recipe is a great way to use up canned goods and can be ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup canned beef (such as corned beef or roast beef), drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding the next.
4. Once all the broth is used, stir in the flaked beef and frozen peas.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for deliciously easy meals with these 18 hearty canned beef recipes perfect for busy nights! From classic comfort food to international flavors, these dishes are quick, affordable, and packed with protein. Try Easy Canned Beef Stew, Quick Canned Beef Tacos, or Spicy Canned Beef Chili. Or, mix things up with Canned Beef and Potato Hash, Canned Beef Shepherd’s Pie, or Canned Beef and Cheese Quesadillas. With canned beef as the star of the show, you’ll have no trouble whipping up a satisfying meal in no time!
