Canned soup is a convenient pantry staple that can be used as a base for many quick and easy meals. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner, a light lunch, or even a snack, canned soups can be transformed into delicious dishes with just a few added ingredients. Here are some quick and easy recipes using canned soup to make your meals flavorful and satisfying in no time.
1. Creamy Tomato Soup Pasta
For a twist on a classic tomato soup, transform it into a creamy pasta dish. This recipe uses canned tomato soup to create a rich and comforting pasta sauce in just minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of creamy tomato soup
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a saucepan, heat the canned tomato soup over medium heat. Stir in the milk or cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta to the soup mixture, stirring to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pasta absorbs some of the sauce.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and garnish. Enjoy a creamy, comforting pasta dish in no time!
2. Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This cheesy casserole is an easy and hearty dinner option. Canned cream of chicken soup is the base for a creamy, cheesy filling that pairs perfectly with rice and chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cooked chicken, cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need a filling meal that’s ready in under an hour!
3. Quick Beef and Vegetable Stew
Canned beef stew or vegetable soup can be the base of a filling and comforting stew with added vegetables and seasonings. This recipe takes advantage of canned soup to create a hearty dish in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of beef stew or vegetable soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
- 1/2 cup diced potatoes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the canned beef stew or vegetable soup over medium heat.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables and diced potatoes (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread for a complete, filling meal.
4. Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna noodle casserole is a classic comfort food that can be made quickly with canned soup and a few pantry staples. This version uses canned cream of mushroom soup to create a creamy base for the casserole.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can of tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup cooked egg noodles
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, drained tuna, cooked egg noodles, frozen peas, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot as a quick, comforting meal that the whole family will love.
5. Vegetarian Chili
Canned vegetable soup can be easily transformed into a hearty vegetarian chili by adding beans, spices, and some fresh ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of vegetable soup
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream and shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the canned vegetable soup over medium heat.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese, if desired. This quick vegetarian chili is the perfect comfort food for a busy night.