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Hearty Tuna and Pinto Bean Tomato Stew: quick, budget-friendly

Prep 10 min Cook 15 min Difficulty 1/5

A quick 30-minute tuna, bean, and green bean stew using tomato soup—great for budget-friendly weeknights.

Why this recipe works

This simple stew uses canned tomato soup, beans, tuna, and green beans for a quick, comforting meal. It’s ideal for weeknights, or when you need a budget-friendly dish that scales easily for leftovers.

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Key takeaways

One-pot dish saves washing up
Packed with protein and fiber
Adjust seasoning to taste in minutes

Recipe guide

This simple stew uses canned tomato soup, beans, tuna, and green beans for a quick, comforting meal. It’s ideal for weeknights, or when you need a budget-friendly dish that scales easily for leftovers.

A tasty, protein-packed stew you can make tonight with pantry staples.

  • One-pot dish saves washing up
  • Packed with protein and fiber
  • Adjust seasoning to taste in minutes

Step 1: Sauté beans and combine with tomato soup

Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat with oil or water. Add green beans and sauté 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. Stir in tomato soup to combine with the beans.

Step 2: Add beans and tuna

Stir in drained pinto beans and bring to a gentle simmer. Flake tuna and fold into the mixture.

Step 3: Finish and rest

Simmer uncovered 5–7 minutes, taste and adjust salt/seasoning. Remove from heat and rest 2 minutes before serving.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Tomato soup (Campbell's)
  • 1 cup Pinto beans (Great Value), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (5 oz) Chunk light tuna (StarKist), drained
  • 1 cup Cut green beans (Great Value), thawed if frozen or fresh

Instructions

  1. Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil or a splash of water.
  2. Add the cut green beans and sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
  3. Pour in the tomato soup and stir to combine with the green beans.
  4. Add the drained pinto beans and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Flake the drained tuna with a fork and fold it into the stew.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano or basil if desired.
  7. Simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and beans are heated through.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning, then remove from heat and let sit 2 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I swap the tomato soup brand or adjust the sauce consistency? Yes. You can substitute any canned tomato soup brand or add a splash of water/stock if you want a thinner sauce.
Can I adjust the protein if I’m short on tuna? Yes. If you’re low on tuna, add extra beans or corn to bulk it up.
How long do leftovers keep? Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.