Quick and Easy Recipes Using Canned Soup

Quick and Easy Recipes Using Canned Soup

Canned soup is a pantry staple that can be used for more than just a quick bowl of comfort food. With a little creativity, it can serve as a flavorful base for delicious, time-saving meals. Whether you need a quick dinner for a busy night or a satisfying meal with minimal effort, canned soup can be your secret ingredient. Here are two quick and easy recipes that transform ordinary canned soup into something extraordinary.

1. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This creamy and comforting chicken and rice casserole is perfect for a hearty weeknight meal. With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, you can have a warm and satisfying dish ready in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, uncooked rice, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to mix.
3. Add the shredded chicken and frozen vegetables to the mixture and stir until evenly combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
6. Remove from the oven and fluff the rice with a fork. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 5 minutes until melted.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Why It Works:

• The canned soup provides a rich, creamy base without needing extra ingredients.
• Using frozen vegetables and rotisserie chicken makes this a time-saving recipe.
• Baking everything together allows the flavors to meld while keeping prep and cleanup minimal.

2. Cheesy Tomato and Beef Pasta Bake

This cheesy pasta bake is a quick, family-friendly meal that combines canned tomato soup with ground beef for a rich and satisfying dish. It’s like a baked spaghetti but with a creamy, cheesy twist!

Ingredients:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup
• 8 oz (about 2 cups) cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or macaroni)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the canned tomato soup and milk, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and stir until fully coated.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the top, followed by Parmesan cheese if using.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Why It Works:

• The tomato soup provides a creamy, tangy base that enhances the pasta and beef.
• Baking it with cheese gives it a deliciously gooey texture.
• It’s a great way to use up pantry staples for an easy, comforting meal.