Leftover bread is often overlooked and underappreciated, but it can be a culinary treasure waiting to be transformed into delicious meals.
Instead of letting those crusty ends and stale slices go to waste, why not repurpose them into hearty and flavorful dishes?
In this article, we will explore over 25 inventive leftover bread dinner recipes that not only minimize food waste but also elevate your dining experience.
From savory casseroles and stuffed peppers to comforting salads and unique puddings, these recipes will inspire you to look at leftover bread in a whole new light.
So, let’s get creative in the kitchen and turn those remnants into mouthwatering meals that your family will love!
25+ Hearty Leftover Bread Dinner Recipes To Celebrate The Season
Embracing leftover bread in your cooking can lead to a world of culinary possibilities.
The recipes we’ve shared demonstrate how versatile and delicious stale bread can be when combined with a variety of ingredients and flavors.
Whether you’re preparing a comforting casserole, a fresh salad, or a unique bread pudding, these dishes not only help reduce waste but also provide your family with satisfying meals.
So next time you find yourself with leftover bread, remember these 25+ leftover bread dinner recipes and let your creativity shine in the kitchen.
Bread Pudding Casserole
This savory bread pudding casserole is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover bread. Packed with vegetables, cheese, and eggs, it creates a hearty dish that’s perfect for any dinner table. It’s also versatile—you can easily modify it by adding your favorite proteins or seasonal vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, and eggs until well combined. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Sprinkle the chopped vegetables and cheese on top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
This bread pudding casserole not only makes excellent use of leftover bread but also allows you to incorporate any vegetables or proteins you have on hand. It’s a comforting dish that can be served warm and is great for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this casserole is bound to please everyone at the table.
Crusty Bread Pizza
Transform your leftover bread into delicious personal pizzas! This recipe is quick and fun, allowing everyone to customize their pizza with favorite toppings. Whether you use baguettes, ciabatta, or sandwich bread, this dish is perfect for a casual dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of leftover crusty bread (like ciabatta or baguette)
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings of choice (pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet.
- Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on each slice.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and your chosen toppings.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Crusty bread pizzas are not only a fun and interactive dinner option but also a fantastic way to get creative with what you have. Each person can customize their slice, making it a hit for families or gatherings. Plus, this dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner solution.
Bread Crumb Chicken Bake
This bread crumb chicken bake is a flavorful and satisfying dish that elevates simple ingredients into a delightful dinner. The crunchy bread crumb coating keeps the chicken moist and adds a delicious texture. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread while providing a wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups leftover bread (processed into crumbs)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
- Press the chicken into the bread crumb mixture, coating it thoroughly.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
This bread crumb chicken bake is a delightful and wholesome meal that makes excellent use of leftover bread. It’s not only a way to reduce waste but also offers a delicious, crunchy coating that makes the chicken irresistible. Pair it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner that everyone will enjoy. This recipe proves that dinner can be both easy and exciting, even with what you already have on hand.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Bread Filling
Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish, and using leftover bread as a filling adds a unique twist. This recipe combines savory flavors with hearty ingredients, making it a complete meal. You can customize the stuffing with your favorite vegetables and proteins, making it a versatile dish for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cups leftover bread (cubed or torn into small pieces)
- 1 cup cooked ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the leftover bread, cooked meat, diced tomatoes, half of the cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the bread mixture, pressing down to pack it in.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Stuffed bell peppers with a bread filling are not only visually appealing but also an excellent way to incorporate leftover bread into a wholesome meal. This dish offers a great balance of flavors and textures, and the leftovers can be easily stored in the fridge for a quick meal the next day. You can also experiment with different fillings based on your preferences, making this recipe a staple for any dinner rotation.
Cheesy Bread Soup
Cheesy bread soup is a warm and comforting dish that turns your leftover bread into a creamy, rich soup. It’s an ideal option for chilly evenings and is both filling and satisfying. The recipe is flexible, allowing for the addition of vegetables, herbs, and spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add the broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the leftover bread and thyme, allowing it to cook for about 10 minutes until the bread is softened.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can blend it in batches in a traditional blender.
- Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream or milk. Add the cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or parsley.
Cheesy bread soup is a cozy, hearty dish that makes great use of leftover bread while providing a delicious way to warm up on a cold evening. It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Additionally, you can customize it with any veggies or proteins you have on hand, ensuring that every bowl is unique and flavorful.
Bread and Vegetable Frittata
This bread and vegetable frittata is a delightful way to combine leftover bread with eggs and vegetables, creating a wholesome dish that’s perfect for dinner. Frittatas are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them an excellent option for meal prep or casual dining.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, etc.)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (feta or goat cheese)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (basil, oregano, or thyme)
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the mixed vegetables until tender.
- Add the cubed bread to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and vegetables, making sure everything is evenly distributed.
- Cook on the stovetop for about 5 minutes until the edges start to set. Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is puffed and golden.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
A bread and vegetable frittata is a versatile dish that transforms leftover bread into a nutritious dinner option. It’s easy to prepare and can accommodate a variety of vegetables and cheeses based on what you have on hand. This frittata is perfect for a light dinner, brunch, or even as a packed lunch, ensuring that you enjoy every bit of your leftover bread in a delicious way.
Bread Crumb Meatballs
These bread crumb meatballs are a fantastic way to use leftover bread while creating a delicious and hearty dish. Packed with flavor, these meatballs can be served with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own with a dipping sauce. They’re easy to prepare and a hit with the whole family!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup leftover bread (processed into fine crumbs)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, egg, and milk. Mix until well combined.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Form the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them in the hot skillet. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own with marinara sauce.
Bread crumb meatballs are not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover bread while creating a comforting meal. The blend of spices and cheese ensures these meatballs are flavorful and moist. They can be served in various ways, making them a versatile option for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, you can freeze any leftovers for an easy meal down the road!
Savory Bread Pudding with Asparagus and Goat Cheese
This savory bread pudding is a delightful dish that showcases leftover bread while highlighting seasonal asparagus and tangy goat cheese. It’s a perfect option for a vegetarian dinner that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the asparagus for about 5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the cubed bread evenly on the bottom. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Distribute the sautéed asparagus and crumbled goat cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden on top. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Savory bread pudding with asparagus and goat cheese is an elegant yet simple dish that turns leftover bread into a flavorful meal. The combination of creamy textures and fresh flavors makes it a standout option for dinner parties or weeknight meals. This dish also allows for seasonal variations, so you can swap in your favorite vegetables to keep things interesting!
Rustic Bread and Bean Chili
This rustic bread and bean chili is a hearty, comforting dish that creatively incorporates leftover bread. It’s packed with protein from beans and can be customized with your favorite chili spices. Perfect for cold nights, this recipe is both filling and budget-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup leftover bread (cubed)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the chili powder and cumin, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes.
- Add the cubed bread to the chili and stir to combine. Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the bread is softened.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions.
Rustic bread and bean chili is a delightful way to make a filling meal out of leftover bread while providing a nutritious option rich in flavors. This chili is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for meal prepping, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day. With its hearty texture and vibrant flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Panzanella Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Panzanella is a classic Italian salad that utilizes leftover bread, making it an ideal dish for showcasing seasonal vegetables. This recipe combines crispy bread with roasted vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette, creating a refreshing yet hearty meal that is perfect for dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, etc.)
- 1/2 cup red onion (sliced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a baking sheet, toss the mixed vegetables and red onion with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed leftover bread with the roasted vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Pour over the bread and vegetables, tossing to combine.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the dressing.
- Serve topped with fresh basil leaves.
Panzanella salad with roasted vegetables is a vibrant and flavorful dish that turns leftover bread into a culinary delight. The combination of roasted vegetables and crispy bread creates a satisfying texture and a burst of fresh flavors, making it a perfect choice for a light dinner or a side dish at gatherings. This salad can be customized based on the vegetables you have on hand, ensuring that it’s always fresh and seasonal.
Bread and Mushroom Risotto
This bread and mushroom risotto is a comforting dish that turns leftover bread into a creamy, satisfying meal. The bread adds a unique texture to the classic risotto, making it heartier and more filling. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is both easy to make and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the broth and keep it warm over low heat.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
- Stir in the arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly toasted. If using, pour in the white wine and let it absorb.
- Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. This process should take about 20 minutes until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.
- Fold in the cubed leftover bread and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Bread and mushroom risotto is a creative twist on a classic dish, transforming leftover bread into a creamy and rich meal. The earthy flavors of mushrooms combined with the cheesy, hearty risotto make this dish truly comforting. It’s an excellent way to impress guests or treat yourself to a satisfying dinner that’s simple to prepare yet feels indulgent.
Mediterranean Bread Casserole
This Mediterranean bread casserole is a flavorful and filling dish that highlights leftover bread along with fresh ingredients such as tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 cup olives (sliced, black or green)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (oregano, basil, or parsley)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In the greased baking dish, layer the cubed leftover bread, diced tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and chopped herbs evenly.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Press down gently on the bread to help it soak up the liquid.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Mediterranean bread casserole is a vibrant and hearty dish that beautifully showcases leftover bread while offering a plethora of flavors from the tomatoes, olives, and feta. It’s a wonderful option for family dinners or potlucks, as it can be prepared in advance and served warm or at room temperature. This casserole also allows for customization with other vegetables or proteins, making it an adaptable and crowd-pleasing meal.
Cheesy Bread and Broccoli Casserole
This cheesy bread and broccoli casserole is a comforting dish that transforms leftover bread into a deliciously cheesy meal. Combining tender broccoli with creamy cheese sauce and crusty bread creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s not only easy to prepare but also a great way to sneak in some vegetables!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and steamed broccoli.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the bread and broccoli, stirring to combine.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing well.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and optional breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
Cheesy bread and broccoli casserole is a wonderful way to repurpose leftover bread while providing a wholesome meal. The creamy cheese sauce and vibrant broccoli make this dish not only satisfying but also nutritious. It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights, and any leftovers can be stored for quick lunches throughout the week. This casserole is bound to become a family favorite, offering comfort and flavor in every bite!
Bread-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Bread-stuffed bell peppers are a creative and colorful way to use leftover bread while enjoying a nutritious and satisfying dinner. These peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of bread, vegetables, and seasonings, making them a delightful and visually appealing dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 3 cups leftover bread (cubed)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly drizzle olive oil over the outside of the peppers and place them upright in a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, cooked rice or quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salsa, half of the cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the bread mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Bread-stuffed bell peppers are not only delicious but also a fun and interactive dinner option. The combination of flavors from the bread, beans, and spices creates a hearty filling that complements the sweetness of the roasted peppers. This dish is highly customizable—feel free to add in your favorite ingredients or switch up the spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for meal prep, and any leftovers can be enjoyed for lunch the next day!
Spanish Bread Pudding (Pudín de Pan)
Spanish bread pudding, or Pudín de Pan, is a delightful dessert that can double as a dinner option. This dish transforms leftover bread into a sweet and rich pudding, flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. It’s a fantastic way to finish off a meal while using up that extra bread!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups leftover bread (torn into pieces)
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried fruit (optional)
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, combine the torn bread with the milk. Allow it to soak for about 10 minutes, until the bread is soft.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add this mixture to the soaked bread, stirring to combine. If using, fold in the raisins or dried fruit.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the pudding is set and lightly browned on top.
- Serve warm, either on its own or with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
Spanish bread pudding is a delightful way to enjoy leftover bread, transforming it into a sweet treat that can easily be served for dinner or dessert. The warm spices and rich flavors make this pudding a comforting dish, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. It’s a fantastic way to embrace the “waste not, want not” philosophy in the kitchen, proving that even leftover bread can create something truly delicious and satisfying!
Note: More recipes are coming soon!