Are you looking for creative ways to use government canned beef in your meals? Look no further! With its affordability and long shelf life, canned beef can be a great addition to many dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 budget-friendly recipes that feature canned beef as the main ingredient.
From hearty stews and casseroles to tacos and pasta skillets, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creative canned beef recipes. Whether you’re a busy college student on a tight budget or a family looking for easy meals, these recipes are sure to please. So go ahead and get creative with your canned beef – here are just a few ideas to get you started!
Beef and Potato Hash with Canned Beef
A comforting, one-pot dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend brunch. This recipe combines tender beef, crispy potatoes, and savory flavors in a satisfying hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) canned beef (such as corned beef or beef in gravy), drained
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, canned beef, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Canned Beef Tacos
In this recipe, we’re giving canned beef a flavorful boost with a spicy taco twist. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying delicious tacos in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of beef in tomato-based sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Drain the canned beef and add it to the saucepan. Stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Simmer the beef mixture for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
9. Assemble tacos by spooning the spicy beef mixture into the shells and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Canned Beef Stroganoff
This recipe is a twist on the classic Russian dish, using canned beef to simplify the cooking process while still delivering rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of beef (14.5 oz), drained
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
– 8 ounces of fettuccine noodles
– 1 cup of sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the drained beef and stir until heated through.
3. Add the beef broth, mustard, paprika, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the beef mixture and toss to coat.
6. If desired, stir in the sour cream before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the carrots, potatoes, mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Canned Beef Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe is a convenient and flavorful twist on the traditional shepherd’s pie, using canned beef for added ease. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can (16 oz) beef in gravy
– 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine the canned cream of mushroom soup, beef in gravy, and frozen peas and carrots. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This beef and rice casserole is a simple, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and feeds the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Add cooked beef mixture to the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Canned Beef Chili
This classic chili recipe is a staple for any busy kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef in gravy
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the chopped onion and minced garlic in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the canned beef, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the canned beans, diced tomatoes, and any desired jalapenos or hot sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot over rice, with crusty bread, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Bean Burritos
A classic Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or lunch on-the-go. This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful beans, and crunchy tortillas for a satisfying burrito experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with beef and bean mixture, then top with cheese (if using).
7. Serve with salsa and sour cream (if desired). Cooking time: approximately 25 minutes.
Canned Beef and Pasta Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish is a great way to use up canned beef and pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful and filling dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef with mushrooms in gravy
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or elbow macaroni)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the canned beef with mushrooms and stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet and stir to coat with the beef mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Quickly cook beef and cabbage in a savory stir-fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (30 seconds).
4. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of tenderness (about 5 minutes).
5. Return the cooked beef strips to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Beef Pot Pie
A hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Canned Beef Pot Pie recipe uses canned beef and frozen vegetables to make a delicious and easy-to-make pot pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of beef stew (10 oz)
– 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine the canned beef, frozen vegetables, and flour. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
3. Stir in the melted butter, milk, and beaten egg until well combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into the pie crust.
6. Top with another piece of pie crust or a pastry crust, if desired.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Lentil Soup
This classic soup is a comforting blend of tender beef, flavorful lentils, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a chilly evening or a nutritious meal anytime. With minimal prep time and simmering for just an hour, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying bowl in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add lentils, broth, carrots, celery, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Canned Beef Sliders
These sliders are a creative way to use canned beef, perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have these tasty bites ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mustard for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Drain the liquid from the canned beef and add it to the mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
4. Split the hamburger buns in half and fill with the canned beef mixture.
5. Place the sliders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of tender beef, sweet corn, and crumbly cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen corn kernels, milk, egg, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with cornbread mix, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Canned Beef and Dumplings
This comforting recipe combines canned beef, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings for a satisfying and easy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup of water
– 2 cups of mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 can (10 oz) of canned beef in gravy, drained and flaked
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons of baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and water. Stir until smooth.
3. Add frozen vegetables, flaked canned beef, and melted butter. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until dumplings are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Macaroni Bake
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of beef, pasta, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the marinara sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni and beef mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Canned Beef Goulash
This classic comfort food recipe is a great way to warm up on a chilly day. Made with canned beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this goulash is easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of canned beef in gravy, drained and flaked
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, flaked beef, onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
2. Stir until well combined, then bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Gravy over Mashed Potatoes
A comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– Butter or margarine for mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion, mushrooms, garlic, and flour; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Gradually stir in beef broth and milk or heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter or margarine.
6. Serve the beef and mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get creative with government canned beef and make budget-friendly meals with these 18 delicious recipes! From classic comfort foods like Beef and Potato Hash and Canned Beef Stroganoff, to international flavors like Spicy Canned Beef Tacos and Beef and Vegetable Stew, there’s something for everyone. Plus, try innovative twists like Canned Beef Shepherd’s Pie and Beef and Rice Casserole. Whether you’re a student on a tight budget or just looking for quick and easy meals, these recipes are sure to please. Try one today!
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