15 Easy Recipes to Make with Leftover Ingredients

Leftovers don’t have to be boring or go to waste. In fact, with a little creativity, they can be transformed into delicious new meals! Be it the last bit of veggies, a handful of pasta, or that extra chicken from last night, there are so many ways to turn those random ingredients into something satisfying. Try some of these easy recipes that will help you make the most of what’s already in your fridge—no grocery trip required!

Fried Rice

Fried rice is a versatile, easy meal perfect for using leftover rice and random veggies. Begin by heating a small amount of oil in a large skillet, then add cold, leftover rice and diced vegetables. You can also add any cooked meat or tofu you have on hand. Season with soy sauce and a bit of garlic powder, stirring until everything is heated through. For added protein, scramble in an egg, and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor. Fried rice is a flavorful way to make use of leftover ingredients in a single, satisfying dish.

Veggie Frittata

A veggie frittata is a delicious way to turn leftover vegetables into a quick meal. Start by whisking a few eggs with a bit of salt, pepper, and herbs. Add chopped, leftover cooked veggies and any cheese you have to the mixture, then pour it all into an oven-safe skillet. Cook the mixture on the stovetop until the edges start to set, then transfer to the oven until the frittata is firm. Serve warm for a filling breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This veggie frittata is an easy and healthy way to use up leftover veggies and is loaded with flavor.

Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a quick, cold dish that’s perfect for leftover pasta and random veggies. Start by tossing cold pasta with chopped vegetables, olives, cheese, and any leftover meat. Make a simple dressing by mixing olive oil, vinegar, a pinch of salt, and your favorite herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine, letting it chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This pasta salad is refreshing, easy to make, and perfect as a side dish or main course. It’s an excellent way to use up pasta and create a satisfying dish.

Soup

Soup is an ideal way to combine various leftover ingredients into a warm, comforting dish. Start by sautéing any leftover veggies with garlic and onions in a large pot until softened. Add broth and any leftover meat, rice, or pasta to give the soup more substance. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper, letting everything simmer to blend the flavors together. Stir occasionally and taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning if needed. This soup is nourishing and can be customized with whatever you have, making it a perfect option for a quick, hearty meal.

Quesadilla

Quesadillas are a simple way to enjoy leftover meats, beans, or vegetables. Place a tortilla in a skillet, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and add your leftover fillings evenly across the tortilla. Place another tortilla on top or fold it over, pressing down gently with a spatula. Cook until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden brown, then flip and repeat on the other side. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream if you have it. This cheesy, crispy quesadilla is quick, satisfying, and perfect for using up various ingredients.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers make a nutritious meal using leftover rice, meat, and veggies. Start by cutting the tops off the peppers and removing the seeds. Fill each pepper with a mixture of cooked rice, chopped veggies, beans, or meat for added protein. Place them in a baking dish, top with cheese if you like, and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted based on what you have available. Stuffed peppers are a wholesome, colorful dish that’s perfect for using up small amounts of leftovers.

Veggie Stir-Fry

A veggie stir-fry is a quick, healthy meal that’s perfect for using up leftover veggies and proteins. Heat a little oil in a large pan or wok, add minced garlic, and toss in your leftover vegetables and any meat or tofu. Drizzle with soy sauce, a sprinkle of ginger, or chili flakes if you like a bit of spice. Stir-fry until everything is heated through and slightly caramelized for added flavor. Serve over rice or noodles if available for a more filling meal. This stir-fry is vibrant, flavorful, and a great way to make a quick dinner from leftover ingredients.

Loaded Baked Potato

A loaded baked potato is a comforting way to make a meal from simple leftovers. Begin by baking or microwaving a potato until it’s soft and fluffy inside. Cut it open, then add your leftover veggies, cheese, cooked meats, or beans for extra texture. Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions if you have them. The baked potato is warm, hearty, and satisfying, turning simple leftovers into a cozy meal. This dish is perfect when you need something filling and easy to make.

Nachos

Nachos are an easy and fun way to use up leftover meats, beans, and veggies for a quick snack or meal. Start by spreading tortilla chips on a baking sheet and layer with shredded cheese, leftover meats, and vegetables. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which should take only a few minutes. Once out of the oven, top with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream if you have any. These loaded nachos are great for sharing or enjoying on your own. They’re crunchy, cheesy, and perfect for when you need a quick, delicious dish.

Omelet

An omelet is a simple yet delicious way to use up any leftover veggies, meats, or cheeses. Begin by whisking eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper, then pour into a hot, greased skillet. Add your leftover fillings on one half of the omelet and cook until the edges set. Carefully fold the omelet in half and let it cook until the eggs are fully done. Serve warm for a filling breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This omelet is versatile and easy, transforming leftovers into a satisfying meal.

Smoothie

A smoothie is a quick and refreshing way to use up leftover fruits and greens. Add any leftover fruits, a handful of spinach or kale, and some juice or milk to a blender. For added creaminess, throw in yogurt or a banana, then blend until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness with a little honey if needed. This smoothie is packed with nutrients and can be customized based on what you have. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is a cozy, sweet dessert that’s perfect for using up stale bread. Begin by cutting stale bread into cubes and soak them in a mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with cinnamon or raisins if desired. Bake until the pudding is set and golden brown on top, about 30-40 minutes. Serve warm with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This dessert is warm, comforting, and a perfect way to make use of leftover bread.

Pizza

Homemade pizza is a fun and creative way to use up any leftover toppings like veggies, meats, and cheese. Roll out a pizza dough, spread on some tomato sauce, and add your toppings in an even layer. Bake in a hot oven until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. You can even make mini pizzas if you have just a little of each topping. This pizza is customizable and gives you a delicious restaurant-style meal at home. It’s a tasty way to turn your leftovers into something special.

Salad

A salad is a fresh, healthy option to combine leftover veggies, proteins, and grains. Start with a base of leafy greens, then add chopped leftover vegetables, any cooked grains, and proteins like chicken, tofu, or beans. Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until it’s evenly coated. This salad is light, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s perfect for when you need a quick meal that’s packed with nutrients.

Burrito Bowl

A burrito bowl is a hearty and satisfying way to use leftover rice, beans, and other ingredients. Begin by layering cooked rice in a bowl, then add beans, leftover meat, and vegetables. Top with salsa, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if available. Add a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh, zesty kick. This burrito bowl is a complete meal that’s easy to customize. It’s filling, delicious, and a great way to enjoy leftovers in a new way.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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