Are you tired of the same old reheated leftovers? Look no further! In this article, you will discover a wide array of delicious recipes that will transform those boring remnants into mouthwatering meals. From flavorful stir-fries to hearty casseroles, you will never look at leftovers the same way again. So, get ready to unleash your culinary creativity and make the most out of those forgotten fridge treasures!
What To Cook With Leftovers
Have you ever found yourself with a fridge full of leftovers and no idea what to do with them? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will explore ten delicious and creative dishes you can make using leftovers. From pasta to tacos, there’s something for everyone. So grab those leftovers and let’s get cooking!
1. Pasta
If you have leftover pasta sitting in your fridge, you’re in luck! Pasta is incredibly versatile and can be transformed into several mouthwatering dishes.
1.1. Pasta Bake
One of the easiest and most delicious ways to use up leftover pasta is by making a pasta bake. Simply combine your pasta with some sauce, cheese, and any other leftover ingredients like veggies or cooked meat. Pour it into a baking dish, top it with more cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly. You’ll have a comforting and hearty meal in no time!
1.2. Pasta Salad
Looking for a fresh and light option? Turn your leftover pasta into a vibrant pasta salad. Toss your pasta with some olive oil, vinegar, and your choice of veggies, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. You can also add some protein like leftover grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra punch of flavor.
1.3. Pasta Carbonara
Pasta carbonara is a classic Italian dish that is incredibly easy to make. Simply sauté some leftover bacon or pancetta, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and black pepper, and toss it all with your cooked pasta. The result is a creamy and flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings.
1.4. Spaghetti and Meatballs
Leftover pasta can easily be transformed into a comforting plate of spaghetti and meatballs. Heat up your leftover pasta sauce and meatballs, cook some fresh spaghetti, and toss it all together. Top with grated cheese and fresh herbs, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go.
1.5. Pesto Pasta
Got some leftover pesto sauce? Use it to dress up your leftover pasta. Simply toss the pasta with the pesto, and you’re good to go. You can also add some cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and grated parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.
1.6. Mac and Cheese
Leftover mac and cheese may not be the most common occurrence, but if you happen to have some, you can easily repurpose it into a delicious meal. Simply spread the mac and cheese in a baking dish, sprinkle with bread crumbs, and bake until golden and crispy. The result is a decadent and crispy mac and cheese casserole that everyone will love.
1.7. Lasagna
Lasagna is another fantastic dish to make with leftover pasta. Layer your pasta with any leftover sauce, meat, and cheese you have on hand, and bake until bubbly and golden. The end result will be a hearty and comforting lasagna that tastes even better the second time around.
2. Soup
Leftover soup is a fantastic base for creating new and flavorful dishes. Here are some ideas on how to transform your leftover soup into something delightful.
2.1. Vegetable Soup
If you have leftover vegetable soup, there are several ways to repurpose it. You can blend it and turn it into a creamy vegetable puree or use it as a base for a hearty minestrone soup. You can also add some cooked pasta or rice to bulk it up and serve it as a satisfying one-pot meal.
2.2. Chicken Noodle Soup
Leftover chicken noodle soup is a classic favorite that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. You can strain out the noodles and use the flavorful broth to cook rice or couscous. Shred the leftover chicken and use it to make sandwiches or wraps. You can also blend the soup and use it as a sauce for a delicious pot pie.
2.3. Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a versatile dish that can be easily customized with your leftovers. If you have leftover minestrone soup, you can turn it into a filling and nutritious stew by adding some cooked beans, meat, or pasta. Top it off with some grated parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, and you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal.
2.4. Potato Soup
Leftover potato soup can be repurposed into several delicious dishes. You can use it as a base for a creamy potato casserole by adding some cooked bacon, cheese, and bread crumbs. Alternatively, you can transform it into a comforting potato chowder by adding some cooked corn, carrots, and cooked chicken or ham.
2.5. Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is incredibly versatile and can be used as a base for many different dishes. If you have leftover tomato soup, you can turn it into a flavorful tomato sauce by adding some cooked ground meat or veggies. Simmer it for a few minutes, and you’ll have a delicious pasta sauce ready to go. You can also use it as a base for a hearty tomato-based stew by adding some cooked beans or lentils, along with your favorite spices and herbs.
2.6. Lentil Soup
Leftover lentil soup can be transformed into a tasty and nutritious meal with just a few simple additions. You can blend it to make a creamy lentil puree, or you can add some cooked rice, veggies, and spices to create a flavorful lentil curry. Serve it over some steamed rice or with warm naan bread for a satisfying meal.
2.7. Beef Stew
Leftover beef stew can be easily transformed into a delicious pot pie. Simply pour the stew into a baking dish and top it with a layer of puff pastry or pie crust. Bake it until the crust is golden and crispy, and you’ll have a comforting and flavorful beef stew pot pie.
3. Stir-Fry
Leftover stir-fry can be the perfect excuse to whip up a quick and delicious meal. Here are some ideas on how to use your leftovers in a stir-fry.
3.1. Veggie Stir-Fry
If you have leftover vegetarian stir-fry, you can easily repurpose it into a flavorful fried rice. Simply heat up some oil in a pan, add the leftover stir-fry and some cooked rice. Stir-fry it all together until heated through and serve it as a delicious and satisfying meal.
3.2. Chicken Stir-Fry
Leftover chicken stir-fry can be transformed into a delicious wrap or sandwich filling. Shred the leftover chicken and toss it with some BBQ sauce or mayo. Spread it on a tortilla or bread, add some fresh veggies and herbs, and roll it up for a tasty and portable meal.
3.3. Shrimp Stir-Fry
Leftover shrimp stir-fry can be easily repurposed into a flavorful shrimp fried rice. Heat up some oil in a pan, add cooked rice, and toss it with the leftover stir-fry. Add some scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and green onions for extra flavor, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in minutes.
3.4. Beef Stir-Fry
If you have leftover beef stir-fry, you can use it to make a tasty beef and broccoli dish. Simply stir-fry some fresh broccoli florets in a hot pan with some garlic and ginger. Add the leftover beef stir-fry and some soy sauce, and stir-fry until heated through. Serve it over rice or noodles, and you’ll have a delicious and flavorful meal.
3.5. Tofu Stir-Fry
For leftover tofu stir-fry, you can create a delicious tofu scramble. Simply crumble the leftover tofu into a hot pan and cook it with your favorite spices and veggies. You can also add some cooked rice or quinoa for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
3.6. Pork Stir-Fry
If you have some leftover pork stir-fry, you can easily transform it into a tasty pork fried rice. Heat up some oil in a pan, add the leftover stir-fry and some cooked rice. Stir-fry it all together until heated through and serve it as a delicious and satisfying meal.
3.7. Teriyaki Stir-Fry
Leftover teriyaki stir-fry can be used as a filling for delicious tacos or burritos. Simply heat up some tortillas, add the leftover stir-fry, and top it off with some fresh veggies, avocado, and cilantro. Roll it up and enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.
4. Casserole
Casseroles are a great way to use up leftovers and create a satisfying and comforting meal. Let’s explore some delicious casserole ideas for your leftovers.
4.1. Shepherd’s Pie
Leftover shepherd’s pie can be repurposed into a delicious and hearty casserole. Simply spread the leftover shepherd’s pie filling into a baking dish, top it with creamy mashed potatoes, and bake until golden and bubbly. You’ll have a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
4.2. Enchilada Casserole
Leftover enchiladas can be transformed into a flavorful enchilada casserole. Simply layer the leftover enchiladas in a baking dish, top them with some extra cheese and sauce, and bake until heated through and bubbly. You’ll have a delicious and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a Mexican-inspired dinner.
4.3. Tuna Noodle Casserole
Leftover tuna noodle casserole can be easily repurposed into a delicious tuna melt. Simply spread the leftover casserole onto some bread slices, top it with cheese, and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll have a comforting and flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
4.4. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Leftover chicken and rice casserole can be transformed into a delectable stuffed pepper casserole. Simply stuff some bell peppers with the leftover casserole and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. You’ll have a colorful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.
4.5. Green Bean Casserole
If you have some leftover green bean casserole, you can easily use it as a topping for a delicious shepherd’s pie. Simply spread the leftover casserole over some cooked ground meat or veggies, top it with mashed potatoes, and bake until golden and bubbly. You’ll have a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal.
4.6. Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Leftover broccoli and cheese casserole can be transformed into a tasty breakfast strata. Simply mix the leftover casserole with some beaten eggs, milk, and bread cubes. Pour it into a greased baking dish and bake until puffed and golden. You’ll have a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch dish that’s perfect for a lazy weekend.
4.7. Sweet Potato Casserole
If you have leftover sweet potato casserole, you can use it as a filling for tasty empanadas. Roll out some pie dough or puff pastry, spoon the leftover casserole onto one half of each pastry circle, fold the other half over, and seal the edges. Bake until golden and crispy, and you’ll have a flavorful and portable snack or appetizer.
5. Fried Rice
Leftover rice is the perfect base for a quick and flavorful fried rice. Let’s explore some delicious variations you can create with your leftovers.
5.1. Vegetable Fried Rice
If you have leftover vegetable stir-fry, you can easily transform it into a delicious vegetable fried rice. Heat up some oil in a pan, add the leftover stir-fry and some cooked rice. Stir-fry it all together until heated through, and you’ll have a tasty and colorful dish that’s packed with veggies.
5.2. Chicken Fried Rice
Leftover chicken fried rice is a classic favorite that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. Simply heat up some oil in a pan, add the leftover fried rice, and stir-fry until heated through. You can also add some fresh veggies, scrambled eggs, and soy sauce for extra flavor.
5.3. Shrimp Fried Rice
If you have some leftover shrimp fried rice, you’re in for a treat. Simply heat up some oil in a pan, add the leftover fried rice, and stir-fry until heated through. You can also add some fresh veggies, scrambled eggs, and soy sauce for extra flavor. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that will transport you to your favorite Chinese restaurant.
5.4. Pork Fried Rice
Leftover pork fried rice can be easily repurposed into a flavorful one-pot meal. Heat up some oil in a pan, add the leftover fried rice, and stir-fry until heated through. You can also add some fresh veggies, scrambled eggs, and soy sauce for extra flavor. This quick and easy dish will satisfy your cravings in no time.
5.5. Beef Fried Rice
Got some leftover beef fried rice? You can use it to make a tasty beef and veggie stir-fry. Simply heat up some oil in a pan, add fresh veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, and stir-fry until crisp-tender. Add the leftover beef fried rice, stir-fry until heated through, and you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal.
5.6. Pineapple Fried Rice
If you have leftover pineapple fried rice, you’re in for a tropical treat. Heat up some oil in a pan, add some fresh veggies like bell peppers, peas, and carrots, and stir-fry until crisp-tender. Add the leftover pineapple fried rice, stir-fry until heated through, and you’ll have a delicious and exotic meal that will transport you to a sunny island.
6. Quiche
Quiche is a fantastic dish to make with leftover ingredients. Whether you have leftover vegetables, meats, or cheese, quiche has got you covered. Let’s explore some delicious quiche ideas using leftovers.
6.1. Ham and Cheese Quiche
If you have leftover ham and cheese, you can easily turn them into a tasty quiche. Simply mix together beaten eggs, milk, grated cheese, and diced ham. Pour the mixture into a pie crust, and bake until the quiche is set and golden. You’ll have a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
6.2. Spinach and Mushroom Quiche
Leftover spinach and mushrooms are perfect for making a flavorful and nutritious quiche. Sauté the leftover veggies with some garlic and onion until softened. Mix them with beaten eggs, milk, and grated cheese, and pour the mixture into a pie crust. Bake until the quiche is set and golden, and you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
6.3. Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Got some leftover broccoli and cheddar cheese? Use them to make a cheesy and delicious quiche. Steam the leftover broccoli until tender, mix it with beaten eggs, milk, and grated cheddar cheese, and pour the mixture into a pie crust. Bake until the quiche is set and golden, and you’ll have a satisfying and flavorful dish that will be enjoyed by the whole family.
6.4. Tomato and Basil Quiche
If you have leftover fresh tomatoes and basil, turn them into a flavorful tomato and basil quiche. Slice the tomatoes and layer them in a pre-baked pie crust along with fresh basil leaves. Mix together beaten eggs, milk, and grated cheese, and pour the mixture over the tomatoes and basil. Bake until the quiche is set and golden, and you’ll have a delicious and vibrant dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
6.5. Onion and Bacon Quiche
Leftover caramelized onions and bacon are excellent ingredients for a savory and indulgent quiche. Mix them with beaten eggs, milk, and grated cheese, and pour the mixture into a pie crust. Bake until the quiche is set and golden, and you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
7. Pizza
Leftover pizza can be transformed into a delicious new meal that everyone will love. Let’s explore some tasty ideas for using up leftover pizza.
7.1. Margherita Pizza
If you have leftover margherita pizza, you can use it to make a delicious caprese-style salad. Simply chop the leftover pizza into bite-sized pieces and toss it with some fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
7.2. BBQ Chicken Pizza
Leftover BBQ chicken pizza can be easily turned into a delicious flatbread sandwich. Simply separate the pizza toppings from the crust, and spread some mayonnaise or BBQ sauce on the crust. Layer the leftover toppings along with some fresh veggies and herbs, and roll it up into a wrap or sandwich. You’ll have a tasty and portable meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
7.3. Veggie Pizza
If you have leftover veggie pizza, you can use it as a filling for tasty quesadillas. Separate the pizza toppings from the crust, place the toppings on a tortilla, top it with some shredded cheese, and fold it over. Cook it in a hot pan until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Serve it with some salsa or sour cream, and you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
7.4. Hawaiian Pizza
Leftover Hawaiian pizza can be transformed into a delicious grilled sandwich. Remove the pizza toppings from the crust, and place them between two slices of bread along with some additional cheese and honey mustard. Grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. You’ll have a sweet and savory sandwich that’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
7.5. Meat Lover’s Pizza
If you have leftover meat lover’s pizza, you can turn it into a tasty meatball sub. Remove the pizza toppings from the crust, and shape them into meatballs. Heat up some marinara sauce in a pan, add the meatballs, and simmer until heated through. Serve them on a sub roll or baguette with some additional marinara sauce and melted cheese. You’ll have a hearty and flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for a meat lover.
7.6. White Pizza
Leftover white pizza is perfect for making a delicious white pizza dip. Simply remove the pizza toppings from the crust, chop them into small pieces, and mix them with cream cheese, sour cream, and grated cheese. Bake until heated through and bubbly, and serve with some breadsticks or tortilla chips. You’ll have a flavorful and creamy dip that’s perfect for a party or game night.
8. Sandwiches
Leftover meat, chicken, or veggies are perfect for creating delicious and satisfying sandwiches. Let’s explore some creative ideas for using up leftovers in sandwiches.
8.1. Turkey Club Sandwich
Leftover roasted turkey can be easily repurposed into a classic turkey club sandwich. Layer some sliced turkey, lettuce, tomato, bacon, and mayo between three slices of toasted bread. Cut the sandwich into quarters, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
8.2. Chicken Salad Sandwich
If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can easily turn it into a flavorful chicken salad sandwich. Simply shred or chop the leftover chicken, and mix it with some mayo, diced celery, diced onion, and your favorite spices and herbs. Spread the chicken salad onto some bread slices, add some lettuce or spinach, and you’ll have a delicious and refreshing sandwich that’s perfect for a light lunch.
8.3. BLT Sandwich
Leftover bacon, lettuce, and tomato are the perfect ingredients for a classic BLT sandwich. Simply toast some bread, spread it with mayo, and layer on the bacon, lettuce, and tomato. Cut the sandwich in half, and you’ll have a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
8.4. Tuna Melt Sandwich
Leftover tuna salad can be easily transformed into a flavorful tuna melt sandwich. Simply spread the tuna salad onto some bread slices, top it with some cheese, and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll have a warm and comforting sandwich that’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
8.5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Leftover cheese is perfect for making a delicious and melty grilled cheese sandwich. Simply butter two slices of bread, place some cheese between them, and grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. You can also add some leftover cooked meat, veggies, or spreads for extra flavor. The result is a comforting and satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
8.6. Reuben Sandwich
If you have leftover corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, you can easily turn them into a flavorful Reuben sandwich. Simply layer some corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing between two slices of rye bread. Grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted, and you’ll have a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
8.7. Pulled Pork Sandwich
If you have leftover pulled pork, you’re in for a treat. Simply heat up the pork in a pan with some BBQ sauce until heated through. Pile the pulled pork onto a bun, top it with coleslaw or pickles, and you’ll have a mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich that’s perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner.
9. Salad
Leftover vegetables, proteins, or cooked grains are perfect for creating flavorful and nutritious salads. Let’s explore some creative ideas for using up leftovers in salads.
9.1. Greek Salad
If you have leftover feta cheese, kalamata olives, and cucumbers, you can easily whip up a refreshing Greek salad. Simply chop the cucumbers and tomatoes, dice the feta cheese and olives, and toss it all together with some olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle with dried oregano, and you’ll have a vibrant and flavorful salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
9.2. Cobb Salad
Leftover cooked chicken, bacon, and hard-boiled eggs are perfect for making a flavorful Cobb salad. Simply chop the leftover ingredients and arrange them on a bed of lettuce. Add some diced tomatoes, avocados, and crumbled blue cheese. Drizzle with your favorite salad dressing, and you’ll have a satisfying and nutrient-packed salad that will keep you full throughout the day.
9.3. Quinoa Salad
Leftover quinoa can be turned into a delicious and nutritious quinoa salad. Simply toss the quinoa with some roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and a light dressing. You can also add some feta cheese, diced avocado, or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture. The result is a satisfying and protein-packed salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or a hearty side dish.
9.4. Chicken Caesar Salad
If you have leftover grilled or roasted chicken, you’re halfway to making a delicious chicken Caesar salad. Simply chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it with some romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing. Top it off with some grated parmesan cheese, and you’ll have a classic and satisfying salad that’s perfect for a quick and easy meal.
9.5. Taco Salad
Leftover taco ingredients are perfect for creating a flavorful and satisfying taco salad. Simply chop some lettuce, and top it with the leftover seasoned meat, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, black beans, and shredded cheese. Drizzle with salsa or sour cream, and you’ll have a delicious and vibrant salad that’s perfect for a Mexican-inspired meal.
9.6. Asian Salad
If you have leftover cooked noodles, veggies, or proteins from an Asian-inspired dish, you can easily turn them into a flavorful Asian salad. Simply toss the leftovers with some shredded cabbage, carrots, and herbs. Dress it up with a tangy sesame or soy-based dressing, and you’ll have a refreshing and colorful salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
9.7. Caprese Salad
Leftover fresh mozzarella cheese and tomatoes are perfect for making a classic Caprese salad. Slice the tomatoes and cheese, arrange them on a plate, and top them with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. You’ll have a simple yet elegant salad that’s perfect for a light and refreshing meal.
10. Tacos
Leftover proteins, vegetables, or grains are perfect for stuffing into tacos. Let’s explore some exciting ideas for using up leftovers in tacos.
10.1. Beef Tacos
If you have leftover cooked ground beef, you can easily turn it into flavorful beef tacos. Simply heat up the beef in a pan with some taco seasoning until heated through. Fill some taco shells or tortillas with the beef, and top them with your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and salsa. You’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day of the week.
10.2. Chicken Tacos
Leftover cooked chicken can be transformed into tasty chicken tacos. Simply shred the chicken and heat it up in a pan with some taco seasoning until heated through. Fill some taco shells or tortillas with the chicken, and top them with your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and guacamole. You’ll have a flavorful and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
10.3. Fish Tacos
If you have leftover cooked fish, you’re in for a delicious treat. Simply flake the fish and heat it up in a pan with some taco seasoning or spices of your choice until heated through. Fill some taco shells or tortillas with the fish, and top them with your favorite toppings like shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime. You’ll have a flavorful and refreshing meal that’s perfect for a seafood craving.
10.4. Shrimp Tacos
Leftover cooked shrimp is perfect for creating tasty shrimp tacos. Simply heat up the shrimp in a pan with some taco seasoning or spices of your choice until heated through. Fill some taco shells or tortillas with the shrimp, and top them with your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of spicy mayo or salsa. You’ll have a mouthwatering and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a fiesta.
10.5. Vegetarian Tacos
If you have leftover grilled or roasted veggies, you can easily turn them into delicious vegetarian tacos. Simply heat up the veggies in a pan with some taco seasoning or spices of your choice until heated through. Fill some taco shells or tortillas with the veggies, and top them with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, and sour cream. You’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a plant-based lunch or dinner.
10.6. Carnitas Tacos
Leftover pork carnitas are perfect for making mouthwatering carnitas tacos. Simply heat up the carnitas in a pan until heated through and crispy. Fill some taco shells or tortillas with the carnitas, and top them with your favorite toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. You’ll have a tasty and authentic Mexican dish that’s perfect for a fiesta or a casual dinner.
With these creative and delicious ideas, you can transform your leftovers into exciting meals that will satisfy your cravings and please your taste buds. From pasta to soup, stir-fry to tacos, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So the next time you find yourself with leftovers, don’t let them go to waste. Get creative in the kitchen and turn them into something delicious!
