Are you tired of the same old recipe routine? Do you want to add some excitement to your meal prep without sacrificing flavor or speed? Look no further! Canned ground beef is a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from tacos to casseroles. In this article, we’ll explore 20 quick and delicious recipes that showcase the best of canned ground beef.
From classic comfort foods like chili and spaghetti to international inspirations like empanadas and quesadillas, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? Each one can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy households or weeknight meals.
So whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newcomer, this collection of canned ground beef recipes is sure to become your new go-to resource for quick and easy meal ideas.
Easy Canned Ground Beef Tacos
Get ready for a quick and delicious Mexican-inspired meal with this simple recipe that uses canned ground beef as the base. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 lb of canned ground beef, drained and crumbled
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine the cream of mushroom soup, canned ground beef, and taco seasoning. Cook over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Speedy Canned Ground Beef Chili
This recipe is a quick and delicious twist on traditional chili, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and filling bowl of chili in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) ground beef
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Open the cans of ground beef, red kidney beans, and diced tomatoes.
2. In a large pot, combine the contents of the three cans, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional jalapenos or hot sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Canned Ground Beef Spaghetti
Looking for a comforting and hassle-free dinner solution? This simple recipe uses canned ground beef to create a satisfying spaghetti dish that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spaghetti
– 1 can (14.5 oz) ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook over medium-high heat until the onion is translucent and the beef is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and ground beef mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Canned Ground Beef Stroganoff
This comforting dish is a twist on the classic Russian recipe, using canned ground beef and pre-cooked noodles to streamline the cooking process. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (10 oz) ground beef
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as egg noodles or fettuccine)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Drain canned ground beef and add to the skillet; stir to combine with onion mixture.
4. Pour in beef broth, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in cooked noodles and let heat through for 2-3 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Savory Canned Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. This shepherd’s pie is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of ground beef (14.5 oz)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and spread evenly.
7. Spray or brush with cooking oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Flavorful Canned Ground Beef Sloppy Joes
Elevate your classic sloppy joes with a boost of flavor from canned ground beef and a hint of spice. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) ground beef
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional: chopped onion, bell peppers, or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Open the can of ground beef and drain excess liquid.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine ground beef, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and fill with the flavorful ground beef mixture.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hearty Canned Ground Beef Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick meal solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) ground beef, drained
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni)
– 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the meat mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions over the cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the onions are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tasty Canned Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
Elevate a classic comfort food with this simple recipe that combines the convenience of canned ground beef with flavorful stuffed peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can (14.5 oz) ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Canned Ground Beef Nachos
Satisfy your snack cravings with this simple recipe that combines the convenience of canned ground beef with the classic flavors of nachos.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of ground beef, drained
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the drained ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the chips.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese, diced onion, and jalapeño pepper over the top.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Delicious Canned Ground Beef Meatballs
Get ready to elevate your meal game with this effortless recipe using canned ground beef! With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful meatballs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinara sauce or grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Drain excess liquid from the canned ground beef.
3. In a large bowl, combine drained ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little water and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Canned Ground Beef Hash
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This recipe uses canned ground beef for a convenient and affordable twist on traditional hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of ground beef (14.5 oz), drained
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Canned Ground Beef Empanadas
These flaky empanadas are filled with a flavorful mixture of canned ground beef and spices, perfect for a quick snack or meal. With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup canned ground beef (drained)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine canned ground beef, onion, bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold other half of pastry over filling. Press edges to seal.
6. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Savory Canned Ground Beef Lasagna
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic lasagna, using canned ground beef as a convenient and flavorful shortcut. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) ground beef
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the canned ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. To assemble the lasagna, spread a layer of the ground beef mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 cooked noodles on top.
7. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by another layer of noodles.
8. Repeat steps 6-7, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Flavorful Canned Ground Beef Tater Tot Bake
A comforting, easy-to-make casserole that combines the convenience of canned ground beef with the crispy goodness of tater tots.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) can ground beef in tomato-based sauce
– 1 cup frozen tater tots
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the canned ground beef over medium-high heat until heated through.
3. In a separate pot of boiling water, cook the tater tots for 5-7 minutes or according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked ground beef, tater tots, shredded cheese, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Hearty Canned Ground Beef Soup
This comforting soup is a staple for any busy day when you need a warm and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and filling soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 (15 oz) can ground beef in gravy
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the cream of mushroom soup, ground beef, water, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tasty Canned Ground Beef Quesadillas
Quickly whip up a delicious meal with this simple recipe using canned ground beef and tortillas. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of ground beef (8 oz), drained
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the canned ground beef, diced onion, and taco seasoning.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with about 1/4 cup shredded cheese.
4. Add about 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture on half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Canned Ground Beef Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake is a quick and delicious meal that can be prepared in no time! With the convenience of canned ground beef, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of ground beef
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the canned ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Delicious Canned Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional stuffed zucchini, using canned ground beef to add flavor and convenience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini shell with the meat mixture, followed by a sprinkle of breadcrumbs.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Canned Ground Beef Fried Rice
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe uses canned ground beef to simplify the cooking process while still delivering plenty of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/2 cup canned ground beef
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the canned ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, stirring to combine with the ground beef mixture.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Canned Ground Beef Enchiladas
Quick Canned Ground Beef Enchiladas: A Simple and Satisfying Meal Solution
Are you looking for a convenient and flavorful meal solution? Look no further! This recipe combines the convenience of canned ground beef with the comfort of homemade enchiladas.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of ground beef
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and diced jalapeño to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Brush both sides of the tortillas with vegetable oil.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by placing about 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then rolling and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
6. Top the enchiladas with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the convenience and versatility of canned ground beef with these 20 quick and delicious recipes! From tacos to chili, spaghetti to stroganoff, and everything in between, this collection has something for everyone. With ease, you can whip up tasty dishes like shepherd’s pie, sloppy joes, casserole, stuffed peppers, nachos, meatballs, hash, empanadas, lasagna, tater tot bake, soup, quesadillas, pasta bake, stuffed zucchini, fried rice, and enchiladas. Perfect for busy home cooks, these recipes are quick, easy, and packed with flavor.