35+ Quick and Easy Friday Leftover Recipes You’ll Love

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Fridays often leave us with a mountain of delicious leftovers, whether from a big family dinner, a week of meal prep, or a casual takeout night.

But what happens when you’re staring at your fridge and trying to decide what to do with all those leftover meals?

The solution is simple: transform them into exciting, new dishes with a little creativity and some clever recipes!

In this blog post, we’ll explore over 35 fantastic ways to turn your Friday leftovers into mouthwatering meals that’ll make your weekend even better.

Whether you’re working with leftover chicken, beef, veggies, or grains, you’ll find the perfect recipe to suit your tastes.

Get ready to breathe new life into those leftovers with these delicious, easy-to-make recipes!

35+ Quick and Easy Friday Leftover Recipes You’ll Love

No need to let those tasty leftovers go to waste!

By repurposing your Friday evening meals into exciting new dishes, you’ll not only save time and reduce food waste, but you’ll also enjoy a variety of delicious meals without much effort.

From savory stir-fries and hearty casseroles to crispy croquettes and cheesy quesadillas, these 35+ Friday leftover recipes will keep your meals fresh, flavorful, and full of variety.

So the next time you’re facing a fridge full of leftovers, don’t stress—just pick a recipe from this list and transform your leftovers into a new, scrumptious dish.

Leftover Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry

A vibrant and satisfying dish, this leftover chicken and veggie stir-fry makes use of your week’s leftover roast chicken and any spare vegetables you might have in the fridge. With a quick stir-fry in a wok, this recipe offers a well-balanced meal with protein, fiber, and plenty of flavor. This dish is also versatile and can be tailored to your preferences, making it an excellent way to clean out the fridge before the weekend.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Cooked rice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
  3. Add the garlic and ginger, and stir for another 1-2 minutes.
  4. Toss in the leftover chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  5. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil, and stir to combine everything evenly.
  6. Serve over a bed of cooked rice if desired, or enjoy as is.

This leftover chicken and veggie stir-fry is an excellent way to make a hearty, healthy meal without much effort. The combination of savory sauces and fresh vegetables brings together flavors that are both comforting and refreshing. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce food waste and create a satisfying dinner with minimal ingredients. You can easily customize this dish with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand, making it a go-to recipe for any leftover night.

Leftover Beef Tacos with Spicy Salsa

Turn your leftover roast beef into a flavorful taco filling with this easy recipe. Pair the beef with a zesty homemade salsa and a variety of taco toppings for a fun, customizable meal that’s perfect for using up the last of your beef. This recipe is quick to prepare, and the result is a meal that’s full of bold flavors and textures.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover roast beef, shredded
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cup salsa (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • Sour cream (optional)
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  2. Add the shredded roast beef to the pan along with cumin and chili powder. Stir to coat the beef evenly in the spices and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
  3. Warm the tortillas in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes on each side until soft.
  4. To assemble the tacos, place a generous scoop of the beef mixture in each tortilla.
  5. Top with salsa, avocado slices, cilantro, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
  6. Serve with lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.

Leftover beef tacos with spicy salsa are a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner that takes your leftover roast beef to new heights. The savory beef, complemented by the bright and spicy salsa, offers a perfect balance of flavors that will satisfy your taco cravings. Plus, with endless toppings and variations, everyone in your family can customize their tacos to their liking. This recipe is not only an easy way to repurpose leftovers but also a fun way to enjoy tacos without the need for a full grocery run.

Leftover Pasta Frittata

A brilliant way to use up leftover pasta, this pasta frittata recipe is simple to make and can be adapted with whatever you have left in your fridge. The combination of eggs, cheese, and pasta creates a comforting dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe is also perfect for using up small amounts of various leftover vegetables, meats, and cheeses.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover cooked pasta
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup leftover cooked vegetables (such as spinach, mushrooms, or peppers)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or basil)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.
  3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add any leftover vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they’re heated through.
  4. Add the leftover pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
  5. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly covered.
  6. Let the frittata cook on the stove for 4-5 minutes, until the edges begin to set.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the frittata is fully set and golden on top.
  8. Slice and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

The leftover pasta frittata is a quick and satisfying meal that offers a creative solution for using up pasta. It’s a versatile dish that allows you to incorporate any leftover veggies or meats, turning them into a delicious, protein-packed meal. The combination of creamy eggs and melted cheese gives the frittata a comforting richness that makes it perfect for any time of day. Whether served as a hearty breakfast or a light dinner, this recipe proves that leftovers don’t have to be boring—they can be transformed into something truly delicious.

Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Quesadillas

After Thanksgiving or any turkey dinner, these leftover turkey and cranberry quesadillas are a fun twist on classic quesadillas. The savory turkey combined with the sweet-tart cranberry sauce creates a flavor-packed filling, while the crispy tortillas provide a satisfying crunch. This recipe is quick to assemble, making it a perfect choice for a fast, indulgent meal using Thanksgiving leftovers or any leftover turkey.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
  • 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • Sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix the shredded turkey with the cranberry sauce. If using, add cumin for an extra layer of flavor.
  2. Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Evenly distribute the turkey mixture, cheese, and spinach (if using) on one half of each tortilla.
  3. Fold the tortilla in half, covering the filling.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
  5. Cook the quesadillas for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted inside.
  6. Slice into wedges and serve with sour cream on the side for a creamy finish.

Leftover turkey and cranberry quesadillas are an inventive and satisfying way to turn holiday leftovers into a new, exciting dish. The combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberry, and gooey melted cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla is a flavor combination that everyone will enjoy. This recipe is also quick, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or lunch after a big meal. You can easily customize the fillings based on what you have left in your fridge, making it a versatile and tasty way to reinvent your leftovers.

Leftover Stuffing and Egg Skillet Bake

If you have leftover stuffing from a holiday meal, this hearty skillet bake is a great way to repurpose it. By combining the stuffing with eggs, cheese, and any leftover vegetables or meats, you can create a comforting, one-pan dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This recipe is easy to make, and the result is a warm, satisfying dish full of flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover stuffing
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup leftover cooked vegetables (such as roasted carrots or green beans)
  • 1/4 cup cooked bacon or sausage (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet (preferably cast iron), spread the leftover stuffing evenly on the bottom.
  3. Top with any leftover vegetables and meats, distributing them evenly.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the stuffing, making sure everything is covered.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
  7. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Leftover stuffing and egg skillet bake is an excellent way to transform your holiday leftovers into a fulfilling meal. The soft stuffing and savory eggs create a comforting base, while the cheese adds richness and flavor. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to whatever leftovers you have, from meats to vegetables, making it an easy yet delicious choice for using up food. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is an ideal way to turn your leftovers into a meal that’s as satisfying as the original feast.

Leftover Mashed Potato Croquettes

Mashed potato croquettes are a crispy, golden treat that’s perfect for repurposing leftover mashed potatoes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn your mashed potatoes into a crispy, bite-sized snack or side dish. The creamy inside with the crunchy outer coating makes these croquettes irresistible and a great way to utilize any extra mashed potatoes from your last meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. Shape the potato mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball.
  3. Dip each croquette into the beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
  4. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
  5. Fry the croquettes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  7. Serve warm with a dipping sauce, such as ketchup or aioli.

Leftover mashed potato croquettes are a wonderful way to bring new life to your mashed potatoes. With a crispy exterior and creamy interior, these croquettes are a delightful snack or side dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you serve them as a fun appetizer or as a complement to another meal, they are sure to become a favorite way to use up leftovers. Plus, you can easily customize the filling with cheese or herbs to make them your own.

Leftover Roast Veggie Frittata

A frittata is a fantastic way to use up leftover roasted vegetables, offering a simple, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. This recipe combines eggs, your leftover roasted veggies, and some cheese to create a rich, satisfying frittata perfect for any time of day. Whether you’ve got leftover potatoes, carrots, or zucchini, this dish is a great way to reinvent your veggies into a hearty meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover roasted vegetables (carrots, potatoes, zucchini, etc.)
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add your leftover roasted vegetables to the pan and sauté for a few minutes to reheat them.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet and stir gently to combine.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the eggs and vegetables.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden.
  7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.

This leftover roast veggie frittata is a great way to give new life to your leftover vegetables. The creamy egg mixture combined with the crispy edges of the frittata creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can easily customize this recipe with whatever roasted veggies you have on hand, and adding cheese makes it extra indulgent. This dish is not only a practical way to reduce food waste but also a delightful, savory option for any leftover occasion.

Leftover Pizza Casserole

Transform your leftover pizza into a comforting pizza casserole that’s both delicious and easy to make. This recipe takes slices of leftover pizza, layers them with a simple marinara sauce, cheese, and a few extras, and bakes everything together into a melty, cheesy casserole. It’s the perfect solution when you’ve had too much pizza and want to turn it into something entirely new.

Ingredients

  • 3-4 slices of leftover pizza (any toppings you like)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the leftover pizza slices into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
  4. Layer the cut-up pizza pieces over the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.
  5. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle the oregano and garlic powder over the top.
  6. Repeat the layering process with any remaining pizza and sauce.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

Leftover pizza casserole is an easy and creative way to make something new out of your pizza leftovers. The crispy edges of the pizza combined with gooey melted cheese and marinara sauce creates a rich, comforting dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, especially when you have a few slices of pizza left that need to be transformed. This casserole is a great way to repurpose pizza, turning it into a completely new and delicious meal.

Leftover Rice Fritters with Sweet Chili Sauce

These crispy leftover rice fritters are a fun and flavorful way to repurpose your leftover rice. Simple to make, these fritters are packed with flavor and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Paired with a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce, they make a perfect bite-sized treat that’s both crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for frying
  • Sweet chili sauce, for dipping

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the leftover rice, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, green onions, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into small fritters or patties using your hands.
  3. Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  4. Fry the rice fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Remove the fritters from the pan and drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve the fritters warm with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Leftover rice fritters are a delicious, crispy treat that turns your leftover rice into a mouthwatering snack or side dish. The combination of rice, Parmesan, and green onions gives these fritters a satisfying flavor, while the sweet chili sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. These fritters are versatile and can be customized with other ingredients like herbs, veggies, or even cheese, making them a great option for using up leftover rice in a new, exciting way.

Leftover Spaghetti Frittata

A leftover spaghetti frittata is a perfect solution for transforming extra pasta into a hearty and flavorful meal. Combining your leftover spaghetti with eggs and cheese, this dish provides a new way to enjoy your pasta. The result is a crispy, savory frittata with all the familiar comfort of pasta, topped with cheese and fresh herbs for added flavor. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this frittata is an easy and satisfying meal that can be customized based on your leftover pasta.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover cooked spaghetti (with or without sauce)
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover spaghetti to the skillet and heat it through.
  4. Pour the egg mixture over the spaghetti, making sure the noodles are evenly coated.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden and slightly crispy.
  7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and slice into wedges.

Leftover spaghetti frittata is a brilliant way to repurpose pasta from the night before into a brand-new dish. The eggs give the spaghetti a custardy texture, while the cheese adds creaminess and flavor. This dish is versatile and can be adapted based on your pasta sauce or add-ins like veggies or meats. It’s a fun and filling way to enjoy your leftovers without feeling like you’re having the same meal again.

Leftover Meatball Sub Bake

Leftover meatballs can be turned into a comforting and satisfying meatball sub bake that’s ideal for using up leftover dinner ingredients. This recipe combines leftover meatballs with marinara sauce, melted cheese, and toasted bread in a casserole-style dish. It’s a cheesy, hearty bake that tastes like a fresh meatball sub but is even easier to make. This is a perfect Friday night dinner when you want something quick and tasty with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 6-8 leftover meatballs, sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
  • 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns, cut in half
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a baking dish, spread the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom.
  3. Layer the sliced meatballs over the sauce, ensuring they are spread evenly.
  4. Place the sub roll halves on top of the meatballs, cut side up.
  5. Spoon a little extra marinara sauce over the bread and top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Sprinkle dried oregano over the top for extra flavor.
  7. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is lightly toasted.
  8. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.

Leftover meatball sub bake is an easy and delicious way to transform your meatball leftovers into a comforting meal. The marinara sauce and melted cheese combine with the crispy bread, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as the original meatball sub. It’s an excellent choice for a family meal or a casual dinner, and you can even customize it with extra toppings like sautéed onions or peppers. This bake is guaranteed to please everyone and make use of leftover ingredients without a hitch.

Leftover Chicken Caesar Wraps

Leftover chicken can be reinvented into delicious Chicken Caesar Wraps that are both filling and flavorful. Combining the richness of Caesar dressing with crispy lettuce, tender chicken, and a crunchy wrap, this recipe is a perfect way to use up leftover roasted or grilled chicken. The wraps are quick to prepare and are great for lunch or a light dinner. They offer a fresh and satisfying meal while utilizing leftovers in a creative way.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
  • 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 4 large flour tortillas or wraps
  • 1/4 cup croutons, crushed (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix the leftover chicken with Caesar dressing until well coated.
  2. Add the chopped romaine lettuce and shredded Parmesan cheese, and toss everything together.
  3. If using, sprinkle in crushed croutons for added crunch.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface and evenly distribute the chicken Caesar mixture among them.
  6. Roll the wraps tightly, folding in the edges as you go.
  7. Slice the wraps in half and serve immediately.

Leftover chicken Caesar wraps are a fresh and tasty way to enjoy your leftover chicken in a whole new form. The creamy Caesar dressing pairs wonderfully with the crisp lettuce and crunchy croutons, making these wraps both satisfying and flavorful. This recipe is quick and customizable, so you can add other ingredients like tomatoes, bacon, or avocado if desired. These wraps are perfect for a light lunch, a snack, or an easy dinner after a busy week.

Leftover Beef Stir-Fry

Turn your leftover beef (whether it’s from steak, roast beef, or even a beef stew) into a delicious stir-fry. This recipe is quick and easy, offering a vibrant and savory dish full of vegetables and tender beef, all coated in a flavorful sauce. A perfect way to enjoy your leftovers and get a new meal in just 20 minutes, this stir-fry is a great choice for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover cooked beef (sliced thin)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, carrots, broccoli)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • Cooked rice, for serving
  • Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
  4. Add the leftover beef slices to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  5. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce and combine the flavors.
  6. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Leftover beef stir-fry is a quick and tasty way to transform your beef leftovers into a fresh and flavorful meal. The savory sauce brings out the umami in the beef, while the crunchy vegetables add texture and color to the dish. You can easily customize this recipe with whatever vegetables you have on hand and adjust the sauce to your taste preferences. This stir-fry is not only a great way to reuse leftovers, but it’s also a healthy, satisfying meal that comes together in a flash.

Leftover Chicken Quesadilla

Leftover chicken can be quickly transformed into cheesy, crispy quesadillas. This recipe makes use of your cooked chicken, combining it with cheese, salsa, and seasonings to create a simple, satisfying meal. Whether you have grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken, this quesadilla is a flavorful and easy way to enjoy your leftovers in a new form.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
  • 1/2 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican blend)
  • 4 flour tortillas
  • 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for frying)
  • Sour cream, for serving
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the shredded leftover chicken, salsa, cumin, and chili powder. Mix well to coat the chicken in the seasonings.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt butter or heat oil.
  3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese evenly over it.
  4. Spoon half of the seasoned chicken mixture onto the cheese, then top with the remaining cheese and another tortilla.
  5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  6. Remove from the skillet and repeat the process for the second quesadilla.
  7. Slice the quesadillas into wedges, serve with sour cream, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Leftover chicken quesadillas are a simple yet satisfying way to repurpose your chicken. The combination of melted cheese, savory chicken, and crisp tortillas creates a flavor-packed dish that everyone will love. Whether for a quick lunch, snack, or dinner, these quesadillas are a versatile option that can be customized with your favorite toppings like guacamole, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes. They’re perfect for feeding the whole family or serving at a casual get-together.

Leftover Mashed Potato Croquettes

Mashed potato croquettes are a fantastic way to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, golden snack or side dish. These croquettes are coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, with the mashed potatoes remaining creamy and flavorful on the inside. They’re a great way to make your leftovers exciting, and they pair well with sauces like ketchup, ranch, or a creamy aioli.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1/4 cup grated cheese (Parmesan or cheddar)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or chives
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes with cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
  2. Shape the mashed potato mixture into small balls or oval shapes, about 1-2 inches in size.
  3. Dip each croquette into the beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
  5. Fry the croquettes in batches, cooking each one for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Leftover mashed potato croquettes are a crispy, indulgent way to make use of your mashed potato leftovers. The crunchy exterior gives way to a soft, creamy interior, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures. These croquettes can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. They’re a fun way to enjoy leftovers, and they’re sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!