Are you looking for quick and easy meal ideas that won’t break the bank? Look no further! With a pantry full of canned goods, you can whip up delicious meals in no time. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 easy canned food recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility and convenience of using canned ingredients. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on a budget, or a family looking for meal ideas that won’t take all day, we’ve got you covered. So grab your cans and let’s get cooking!
Tuna Casserole with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
This classic comfort food recipe combines canned tuna, pasta, and a rich creamy mushroom sauce for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender. Add heavy cream and bring to simmer; cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Combine cooked pasta, tuna, mushroom sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with grated cheddar cheese and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spam Fried Rice with Vegetables
This recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with the comforting familiarity of fried rice, adding a medley of colorful vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 slices of Spam, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the Spam aside, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Mix in the chopped green onions and soy sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Corn and Chicken Chowder
Warm up with this comforting Canned Corn and Chicken Chowder recipe, perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups canned corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the canned corn kernels, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Stew with Canned Potatoes and Carrots
Get cozy with this comforting beef stew that’s quick and easy to make, thanks to the help of canned potatoes and carrots. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (16 oz) whole potatoes, drained and chopped
– 1 can (10 oz) baby carrots, drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Classic Canned Bean Chili
This hearty, comforting chili is a staple of American cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato soup, and water.
2. Stir in chili powder and cumin.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sardine Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines the rich flavors of sardines, garlic, and olive oil for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cans sardines in water (drained and chopped)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sardines to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sardine mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce
This recipe is a flavorful and convenient twist on traditional enchiladas, using canned chicken and store-bought green sauce to simplify the cooking process.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup of canned green chile sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 can of cooked, shredded chicken (10 oz)
– 1 cup of shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned chicken, cream of chicken soup, and green chile sauce. Mix well until combined.
3. Arrange tortillas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling.
6. Roll up tortillas tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Soup with Canned Tomatoes and Beans
This recipe makes a deliciously simple soup that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. With the addition of canned tomatoes and beans, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of fiber and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little bit of water until tender.
2. Add the canned tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, and oregano. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple-Glazed Spam Sliders
These bite-sized sliders combine the classic comfort of Spam with a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze, all wrapped up in a soft bun. Perfect for parties or snacks on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of Spam, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 8 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Brush the Spam slices with the glaze and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. Assemble the sliders by placing a glazed Spam piece onto each bun, followed by lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
A flavorful and filling Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with the savory taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the bean and corn mixture onto 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 crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Tuna Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the savory flavor of tuna, creating a creamy and indulgent dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add tuna, milk, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the tuna mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Canned Clam Linguine in White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines canned clams, white wine, and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound linguine
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of chopped clams in juice
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Pour in white wine and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce by half, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in canned clams and their juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked linguine with clam mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Canned Salmon Patties with Dill
A speedy and flavorful way to enjoy canned salmon, these patties are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With the addition of fresh dill, they’re packed with bright, citrusy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.75 oz) can of salmon, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for binding)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine salmon, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each portion into a pattie.
4. Dip each pattie in the beaten egg and coat with additional panko breadcrumbs if desired.
5. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot on your favorite bread or as a standalone snack.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Canned Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer gets a convenient twist with this recipe using canned tomatoes. Perfect for a quick snack or gathering, this bruschetta is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 baguette slices
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and top with shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hearty Lentil Soup with Canned Ham
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful lentil soup recipe, featuring canned ham for added protein and depth of flavor. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (12 oz) canned ham, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, broth, and canned ham.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Add onion, garlic, and thyme; continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sausage and Canned Potato Hash
Sausage and Canned Potato Hash: A Quick and Hearty Meal
This recipe combines the flavors of savory sausage with tender canned potatoes, making for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this comforting dish on your table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large cans (16 oz each) of diced potatoes, drained
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or other desired vegetables
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the canned potatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Canned Artichoke Dip
A creamy and savory dip that’s perfect for your next gathering or party. This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese to create a deliciously addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Canned Peach Cobbler with Cinnamon
This classic dessert is a perfect way to enjoy the sweet taste of peaches without the hassle of fresh peaches. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious cobbler in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of sliced peaches in syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the canned peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour in the heavy cream or whole milk and stir until the mixture is smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cobbler.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Canned Mushrooms
This comforting side dish is a staple of many holiday meals, and can be easily prepared using canned mushrooms to simplify the process. With its creamy sauce, crunchy green beans, and golden-brown topping, this casserole is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (use canned)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion in butter until softened.
4. Add cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt to the skillet. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked green beans and sauce mixture.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Canned Fruit Salad with Yogurt Dressing
This Instant Canned Fruit Salad recipe is a convenient and healthy dessert option that can be prepared in just a few minutes. With the help of canned fruit, yogurt, and a hint of sweetness, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing treat ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned mixed fruit (drained)
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the drained canned fruit and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt dressing over the canned fruit and gently fold to combine.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get quick and easy meals on the table with these 20 recipes that feature canned foods as main ingredients. From classic comfort dishes like tuna casserole and beef stew to international-inspired meals like sardine pasta and canned chicken enchiladas, there’s something for everyone. Other creative ideas include pineapple-glazed Spam sliders, black bean and corn quesadillas, and even a canned peach cobbler. These recipes showcase the versatility of canned goods and prove that meal prep doesn’t have to be boring.
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