Busy nights can be overwhelming, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice taste for convenience. With a little creativity and some pantry staples, you can whip up delicious meals in no time. Canned goods are often overlooked as a resource for meal prep, but they’re actually a treasure trove of flavors and textures waiting to be unleashed. From comforting casseroles to quick stir-fries, canned foods offer a world of possibilities.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that use canned ingredients as the main attraction. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on-the-go, or a parent trying to keep up with a household full of hungry mouths, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, grab those cans off your pantry shelf, and get ready to cook up some culinary magic!
Creamy Canned Corn Chowder
A comforting and creamy soup perfect for a chilly day, this recipe combines the sweetness of canned corn with the richness of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.75 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika for added smokiness
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in corn, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Spicy Canned Black Bean Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this quick and flavorful recipe that combines the convenience of canned black beans with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 taco shells
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans to the skillet; stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning the bean mixture into the shells and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Canned Tuna Pasta Bake
A satisfying and protein-packed twist on traditional pasta bakes, this Canned Tuna Pasta Bake is a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or weekend lunches.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked), 5 oz.
– 2 cups mixed veggies (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed veggies and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna flakes, and veggie mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Canned Tomato Soup
A simple and comforting soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe uses canned tomatoes to save time and effort, while still delivering great flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk or cream
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Pour in the canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and milk or cream. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices (such as basil or red pepper flakes).
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Canned Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe uses canned chicken as a convenient substitute for cooking chicken from scratch, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to whip up a meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of chicken breast in water
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can of enchilada sauce (red or green)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Drain the canned chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble enchiladas by spreading a spoonful of shredded chicken onto a tortilla, followed by a spoonful of enchilada sauce and some shredded cheese.
5. Roll up the tortilla and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
7. Remove foil and top with additional cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Canned Green Bean Casserole
This classic comfort food recipe is a twist on the traditional green bean casserole, using canned green beans for a convenient and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this savory casserole is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can green beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– 6 slices of American cheese, divided
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with half of the french-fried onions and three slices of American cheese.
6. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining onions and cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Canned Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch. This canned salmon patty recipe is a great way to get your omega-3 fix while enjoying a flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can of salmon, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dill Sauce ingredients: 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine salmon, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, egg, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix Dill Sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Serve patties with dill sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Canned Chili Mac
A comforting and convenient one-pot meal perfect for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups canned chili
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped onions, or crushed tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the cooked macaroni, canned chili, milk, and butter. Stir until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, chopped onions, or crushed tortilla chips if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with caramelized pineapple rings on top. It’s a great dessert to serve at any occasion, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed pineapple
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on top of the batter, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a plate.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Hearty Canned Beef Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect remedy for a chilly day or a busy evening when you need something quick and satisfying. With the convenience of canned beef and vegetables, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef in gravy
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the canned beef, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Canned Chickpea Curry
Quick and Delicious Canned Chickpea Curry Recipe
This simple recipe makes a flavorful and nutritious curry using canned chickpeas as the main ingredient. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this curry is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and red bell pepper, cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Zesty Canned Sardine Salad
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavor of canned sardines with a zesty twist, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4 oz) can of sardines in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup of chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked sardines, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Add the Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Canned Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and comforting risotto dish that’s quick to make using canned mushrooms, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) sliced mushrooms in water, drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. When the rice is cooked, add the canned mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Canned Fruit Salad
This simple recipe combines canned fruits with a hint of sweetness and a splash of citrus to create a delicious and convenient dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can each of pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapefruit, and peaches (drained)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the canned fruits.
2. Add the granulated sugar and stir until well combined.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the fruit mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Canned Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe is a great way to use up canned vegetables and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and protein sources. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 can each of mixed veggies (such as corn, peas, carrots), green beans, and bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken, beef, tofu, or shrimp for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the canned vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. If using protein, add it to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute until cooked through.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Canned Clam Linguine
Quickly prepare a delicious linguine dish using canned clams and a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked linguine
– 2 cups canned clams, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add canned clams and stir to combine with garlic and butter. If using white wine, add it now and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Combine cooked linguine with clam mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Canned Peach Cobbler
Sweet Canned Peach Cobbler Recipe
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this easy and delicious cobbler recipe using canned peaches! This classic dessert is perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a cozy weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup of sugar
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup of canned peaches in heavy syrup, drained
– 1/2 cup of biscuit or cobbler topping (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, sugar, flour, and salt. Stir until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in drained canned peaches.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with biscuit or cobbler topping.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Canned Pumpkin Spice Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for a cozy fall morning or as a sweet treat any time of the year. Made with canned pumpkin puree, these muffins are easy to whip up and pack plenty of autumnal charm.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Canned Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this easy and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick gathering or impromptu dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of canned tomatoes onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with chopped basil leaves and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Canned Mixed Bean Salad
This simple recipe makes a delicious and healthy salad using canned mixed beans as the base. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and can be customized to your taste with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can mixed beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, crumbled feta cheese, or sliced avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the mixed beans, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and garlic.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with your choice of toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including chilling time)
Summary
Get quick, easy, and delicious meal ideas with these 20 canned food recipes perfect for busy nights! From creamy chowders to savory casseroles, and from spicy tacos to sweet desserts, this collection has something for everyone. Discover how to turn canned goods into tasty dishes like tuna pasta bake, chicken enchiladas, and beef stew. Whether you’re short on time or ingredients, these recipes will help you create a meal in no time.
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