5 Delicious Canned Beef Recipes to Try Today

Exploring the Versatility of Canned Beef

Canned beef often gets overlooked in the pantries of home cooks, but it's time to rethink this handy staple. Not only does canned beef offer a long shelf life, but it also provides a rich, robust flavor to a variety of dishes. Here are five delicious canned beef recipes that will turn this convenience food into gourmet meals you'll want to try today.

1. Canned Beef Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 can of beef, drained
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, cubed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, carrots, and potatoes, cooking until they start to soften.
3. Pour in the beef broth, add tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the canned beef, breaking it apart with your spoon, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, optionally with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

🌿 Note: Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more broth or reducing the liquid during cooking.

2. Beef and Bean Enchiladas

Ingredients:

• 1 can of beef, drained and flaked
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 8-10 corn tortillas
• 1 cup red enchilada sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, diced tomatoes

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Mix the beef with black beans.
3. Warm each tortilla, fill with the beef-bean mixture, roll, and place seam-side down in the dish.
4. Cover with remaining sauce and sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with green onions and optional toppings before serving.

🔔 Note: For a spicier kick, add jalapeño slices to the beef mixture.

3. Beef and Potato Hash

Ingredients:

• 1 can of beef, drained
• 4 large potatoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Eggs for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add potatoes, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until potatoes are crispy.
2. Add the beef, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook for another 5-10 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Serve as is or top with fried or poached eggs for a hearty breakfast.

4. Shepherd's Pie with Canned Beef

Ingredients:

• 1 can of beef, drained
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (pre-made or instant)
• 1/2 cup beef gravy (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, layer the beef and vegetables.
3. Pour gravy over the beef mixture. Top with a layer of mashed potatoes.
4. If using, sprinkle cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden.

5. Beef Barley Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 can of beef, drained
• 1/2 cup barley
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pot, sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened.
2. Add beef, beef broth, bay leaf, barley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until barley is tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Incorporating canned beef into your meal rotation can transform your cooking routine, offering both convenience and flavor. These recipes prove that with a little creativity, canned beef can be more than just a backup plan; it can be the star ingredient in a variety of hearty, satisfying meals.

Can I use other types of canned meats in these recipes?

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Yes, you can substitute canned beef with canned chicken, pork, or even corned beef for variety. Adjust cooking times for different meats if necessary.

How long can canned beef last once opened?

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Once opened, canned beef should be consumed within 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Are these recipes suitable for meal prepping?

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Absolutely! Most of these dishes reheat well, making them ideal for meal prep or for freezing in portions for later consumption.