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Quick Leftover Meal Ideas - Simple, Smart Ways to Use What You Have

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Leftover bases: Cooked rice, quinoa, couscous, pasta, roasted potatoes, cooked grains, tortillas, naan, bread.
  • Proteins: Roast chicken, steak, pork, tofu, tempeh, beans, lentils, canned tuna or salmon, eggs.
  • Veggies: Roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, steamed veggies, raw salad fixings, frozen peas or corn.
  • Flavor builders: Onion, garlic, scallions, ginger, canned tomatoes, tomato paste.
  • Sauces and seasonings: Soy sauce, hot sauce, vinegar, mustard, salsa, pesto, marinara, curry paste, olive oil, sesame oil.
  • Spices: Salt, black pepper, chili flakes, cumin, paprika, curry powder, Italian seasoning.
  • Toppings: Cheese, yogurt, sour cream, nuts, seeds, fresh herbs, lemon or lime.

Method
 

  1. Fried Rice Remix Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chopped onion or scallions and any chopped leftover veggies; cook 2–3 minutes.
  3. Push to the side, add 2 beaten eggs, scramble until just set.
  4. Stir in 2 cups leftover rice and 1 cup chopped protein. Cook 3–4 minutes.
  5. Season with 1–2 tablespoons soy sauce, a splash of sesame oil, and chili flakes. Finish with lime and herbs.
  6. Sheet-Pan Nachos Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with 1–2 cups leftover protein and beans.
  7. Add any roasted veggies or corn. Sprinkle cheese.
  8. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until melted.
  9. Top with salsa, yogurt or sour cream, scallions, and jalapeños.
  10. Pasta Skillet Warm 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 minced garlic clove in a skillet.
  11. Add 1 cup chopped leftover veggies and 1 cup protein; heat through.
  12. Stir in 2 cups cooked pasta and 1/2–1 cup sauce (marinara or pesto). Loosen with pasta water or broth.
  13. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Finish with cheese and herbs.
  14. Stuffed Quesadillas or Wraps Layer a tortilla with leftover meat or beans, veggies, and cheese.
  15. Fold and cook in a dry skillet over medium heat, 2–3 minutes per side.
  16. Serve with salsa, hot sauce, or yogurt-lime sauce.
  17. Power Grain Bowls Add a warm base of rice, quinoa, or potatoes to a bowl.
  18. Top with roasted veggies, protein, and greens.
  19. Drizzle with a quick dressing: 2 parts olive oil, 1 part lemon juice or vinegar, salt, pepper, and a dab of mustard.
  20. Finish with nuts, seeds, or a soft-boiled egg.
  21. Curry-in-a-Hurry Sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon oil until soft.
  22. Stir in 1 tablespoon curry paste or 2 teaspoons curry powder and 1 tablespoon tomato paste.
  23. Add a can of coconut milk or 1 cup broth plus 1/2 cup canned tomatoes.
  24. Fold in leftover veggies and protein; simmer 5–7 minutes. Serve over rice.
  25. Egg Bake or Frittata Whisk 6 eggs with salt, pepper, and a splash of milk.
  26. Stir in 1–2 cups chopped leftovers and cheese.
  27. Bake in a greased 9-inch pan at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, or cook on the stove and finish under the broiler.
  28. Hearty Soup Stretch Sauté onion, celery, and carrot in a pot with oil until soft.
  29. Add broth, canned tomatoes, and spices.
  30. Stir in leftover grains, veggies, and protein. Simmer 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning and add a squeeze of lemon.