The rest is a lot of money and time savings. I love nothing more than being able to cook one night and have two meals. Some of my favorites are roast chicken that can be soup, chicken and dumplings, pot pie… or leftover rice made into fried rice for a delicious meal. With a little imagination, yesterday’s dinner can be a beautiful masterpiece. Here are some clever ways I’ve found to make my leftovers last longer without repeating the same meals over and over again.
1. Leftover Roast Chicken Makes a Delicious Pot Pie
Roast chicken can easily turn into a hearty pot pie. Start by shredding the chicken and mixing it with the frozen mixed vegetables and the creamy sauce. Put the mixture in a baking dish, cover it with pre-made puff pastry or biscuit dough, and bake until brown. The result is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Add a sprinkling of fresh herbs for a gourmet touch. It’s a great way to avoid wasting leftovers while giving something that feels brand new.
2. Mashed Potatoes Reimagined as Crispy Potato Croquettes
Leftover mashed potatoes are the star of this trendy change. Mix with shredded cheese, green onions, and a little flour or breadcrumbs. Roll the mixture into balls or patties, and coat them with breadcrumbs without being crispy. Fry or bake until golden, and you have gourmet potato croquettes. Serve with a side of garlic aioli or sour cream for dipping. These are perfect for a chic appetizer or a sophisticated side dish.
3. Rice Gets a Shine with Delightful Fried Rice
Cold, day-old rice is perfect for making fried rice. Saute onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables in sesame oil, then add rice and stir-fry until hot. Add soy sauce, a touch of oyster sauce, and boiled eggs for a complete meal. If you have leftover protein like shrimp or chicken, chop it up and mix it up. Top with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for a restaurant-worthy presentation. It’s quick, satisfying, and looks as good as it tastes.
4. Turn Stale Bread Into Decadent Bread Pudding
Stale bread is far from wasted if you turn it into a dessert. Cut into cubes and dip in a mixture of milk, eggs, sugar and vanilla. Add raisins, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit for extra flavor. Bake until golden and serve warm with caramel or a dollop of whipped cream. For a sweet twist, skip the sugar and mix in cheese and herbs instead. Bread pudding is versatile and can go from brunch to dessert in no time.
5. Taco Night Leftovers Become Loaded Nachos
Leftover taco meat and toppings can easily be turned into loaded nachos. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top with meat, beans, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Bake until the cheese melts, then add fresh toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. Garnish with chopped cilantro and jalapenos for a sweet touch. These nachos are perfect for a game day snack or a fun family dinner. They will disappear in minutes, guaranteed.
6. Extra Vegetables Turn Into Creamy Vegetable Soup
Roasted or steamed vegetables can shine in a creamy vegetable soup. Mix with the vegetable broth and a splash of cream until smooth. Heat the mixture and add salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice. Add croutons or a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet garnish. This recipe works with almost any combination of vegetables, making it endlessly customizable. It’s a delicious and warming way to reduce food waste.
7. Cooked Pasta Becomes a Trendy Pasta Frittata
Don’t throw away that leftover pasta—turn it into a chic frittata. Mix the pasta with beaten eggs, grated cheese, and chopped vegetables or herbs. Pour the mixture into the greased pan and cook until the eggs are set, then finish under the broiler at the top of the golden. Cut like a pie and serve warm or at room temperature. This Italian-inspired dish works for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It’s budget-friendly and Instagram-worthy.
8. Extra Meatloaf Turns into Delicious Sliders
Leftover meatloaf can easily be turned into sliders. Cut the meatloaf into small patties and reheat gently. Place each slice on a slide bun with nice toppings like caramelized onions, arugula, and a dollop of aioli. Serve with a side of fries or a salad for a complete meal. These sliders are perfect for entertaining or a quick and satisfying lunch. Your guests won’t even know they’re eating leftovers.
Waste Less, Enjoy More
Taking your leftovers and turning them into something new can be transformative for busy people. As a mom of two, I’m always trying to find ways to save time, reduce waste, and keep everyone happy (and full). These are some of my favorite leftover recipes and each one freshens up the dish in a delightful way. Start exploring your fridge, and you might find your new favorite dish. Spend less, eat better, and enjoy every bite!
What are some of your favorite things to do with leftovers? Let us know in the comments.
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