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Leftover Dinner Recipes - Simple, Smart Ways to Use What You Have

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Leftover proteins: Cooked chicken, steak, pork, tofu, beans, sausage, rotisserie chicken, or shrimp
  • Cooked grains: Rice, quinoa, farro, couscous, or leftover pasta
  • Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, carrots, broccoli, corn, peas, spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, potatoes
  • Tortillas or bread: Flour tortillas, corn tortillas, pitas, naan, or crusty bread
  • Broth and canned goods: Chicken or vegetable broth, canned tomatoes, coconut milk, beans
  • Eggs and dairy: Eggs, shredded cheese, yogurt, sour cream, butter
  • Flavor boosters: Garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hot sauce, salsa, pesto, curry paste, sesame oil, vinegar, lemon or lime
  • Herbs and spices: Cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, oregano, thyme, curry powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt

Method
 

  1. Skillet Fried Rice Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add 1 tablespoon oil.
  2. Sauté chopped onion, carrots, and any quick-cooking veggies for 3–4 minutes.
  3. Push veggies to the side. Add a bit more oil, then scramble 2 eggs until just set.
  4. Add 2–3 cups cold leftover rice and any cooked protein. Break up clumps.
  5. Season with 2–3 tablespoons soy sauce, a splash of sesame oil, and a pinch of pepper. Stir until hot. Finish with green onions.
  6. Loaded Quesadillas Warm a nonstick pan over medium. Add a tortilla with a light butter swipe or oil.
  7. Layer shredded cheese, chopped leftover meats or beans, and quick-cook veggies (like corn or spinach).
  8. Top with another tortilla. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until crisp and melty.
  9. Slice and serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
  10. 15-Minute Pantry Soup In a pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil for 2–3 minutes.
  11. Add 4 cups broth, 1 can tomatoes, and chopped leftover veggies or protein.
  12. Stir in beans or a handful of cooked pasta or rice.
  13. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 8–10 minutes. Finish with lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil.
  14. Sheet-Pan Leftover Hash Heat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss diced cooked potatoes or sweet potatoes with leftover veggies and protein.
  15. Drizzle with olive oil. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  16. Spread on a sheet pan. Roast 15–20 minutes, stirring once.
  17. Optional: Make wells and crack in a few eggs. Bake 5–7 more minutes until set.