Leftover rice can be a great starting point for many delicious meals. Instead of letting it go to waste, you can use it to create tasty dishes that save time and money.
These 25 leftover rice recipes offer quick and easy ways to transform your extra rice into satisfying meals.
From stir-fries and casseroles to stuffed vegetables and desserts, there are many options to choose from. You’ll find ideas for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even sweet treats.
These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get food on the table fast.
1. Fried Rice with Pineapple
Pineapple fried rice is a tasty way to use leftover rice. You can make this dish in about 15 minutes.
Start by heating oil in a wok or large pan. Cook onions, garlic, and ginger for a few minutes.
Then add diced bell peppers and pineapple chunks.
Next, push the veggies to one side and scramble some eggs in the pan. Add your leftover rice, soy sauce, and sriracha if you like spice.
Stir-fry everything together for a couple of minutes. Top with green onions before serving. This sweet and savory dish is perfect for a quick meal.
2. Leftover Rice Pancakes
Got leftover rice? Turn it into tasty pancakes! Mix your cold rice with flour, eggs, and milk. Add a pinch of salt and some baking powder for fluffiness.
Heat a pan and drop spoonfuls of the batter. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
These pancakes are crispy outside and soft inside.
You can make them sweet or savory. For a sweet version, add sugar and vanilla. For savory, try herbs and cheese. Serve with syrup, butter, or your favorite toppings.
This quick breakfast uses up extra rice and is ready in minutes. Kids love these pancakes too!
3. Chicken and Rice Soup
Chicken and rice soup is a tasty way to use up leftover rice. You can make this comforting dish in about 30 minutes.
Start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in a pot. Add chicken broth, cooked chicken pieces, and your leftover rice.
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley. Simmer everything together until the vegetables are tender.
For a creamier version, stir in a bit of heavy cream at the end. This soup is perfect for chilly days and makes great leftovers.
4. Vegetable Stir-Fried Rice
Vegetable stir-fried rice is a tasty way to use up leftover rice. Start by heating oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add your choice of veggies like broccoli, carrots, peppers, and zucchini.
Stir-fry the vegetables for a few minutes until they start to soften.
Push them to the side and add your leftover rice to the pan. Mix everything together and cook for a few more minutes.
For extra flavor, you can add soy sauce or other seasonings. Stir well to combine.
This quick and easy dish is ready in about 10 minutes. It’s a great way to use up both leftover rice and any vegetables you have on hand.
5. Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Rice pudding is a cozy dessert you can make with leftover rice. It’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for cool evenings.
To make it, simmer your rice with milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir often to prevent sticking. The mixture will thicken as it cooks.
Add a dash of cinnamon for warmth and flavor. You can also toss in some raisins if you like.
When it’s thick and creamy, remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Serve your rice pudding warm in small bowls. For extra indulgence, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
6. Egg Fried Rice
Egg fried rice is a quick and tasty way to use up leftover rice. You only need a few simple ingredients to make this dish.
Start by heating oil in a pan. Add beaten eggs and scramble them. Remove the eggs and set aside.
Next, fry some minced garlic in the pan. Add your cold leftover rice and stir-fry until heated through.
Mix in soy sauce, sesame oil, and the scrambled eggs. Toss everything together until well combined.
For extra flavor and crunch, add chopped green onions before serving.
This versatile dish can be customized with other leftover vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
7. Rice-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Rice-stuffed bell peppers are a great way to use up leftover rice. Cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds.
Mix cooked rice with ground beef or sausage, onions, garlic, and tomato sauce.
Spoon the rice mixture into the pepper halves. Place them in a baking dish and top with cheese if you like.
Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot.
You can customize this dish with different meats or make it vegetarian. Try using ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.
Add extra veggies like corn or peas to the rice mixture for more flavor and nutrition.
8. Rice and Bean Casserole
Rice and bean casserole is a tasty way to use up leftover rice. This dish combines rice, beans, and veggies for a filling meal.
To make it, mix cooked rice with canned beans and your choice of vegetables. Add some cheese and spices for extra flavor. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
Bake the casserole until it’s hot and the cheese is melted.
This recipe is easy to customize with different beans or veggies. You can add meat if you want, but it’s great as a vegetarian meal too.
9. Leftover Rice Frittata
A leftover rice frittata is a tasty way to use up extra rice. You’ll need eggs, cheese, and any veggies you have on hand.
Heat some oil in a pan and add your leftover rice. Cook it for a few minutes to warm it up.
In a bowl, whisk eggs with grated Parmesan cheese.
Pour the egg mixture over the rice in the pan. Let it cook until the edges start to set.
You can add cooked vegetables or herbs for extra flavor.
Finish cooking the frittata in the oven at 300°F. It’s done when the center is set and slightly golden. This quick meal works great for breakfast or dinner.
10. Mushroom Risotto with Leftover Rice
You can make a quick mushroom risotto using leftover rice. Start by sautéing mushrooms, onions, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
Add your leftover rice to the pan and stir to coat with the mushroom mixture.
Pour in some warm vegetable broth and stir frequently.
As the rice absorbs the liquid, add more broth gradually. Keep stirring until the rice is creamy and the broth is absorbed.
Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. This shortcut method gives you a tasty risotto in just 15 minutes.
11. Rice and Lentil Tacos
Rice and lentil tacos are a tasty way to use leftover rice. Mix cooked rice with seasoned lentils for a hearty filling.
Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic. Add lentils, vegetable broth, and spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Simmer until lentils are tender.
Stir in your leftover rice and warm through.
Spoon the mixture into taco shells or tortillas. Top with your favorite taco fixings like lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa.
These tacos are filling, nutritious, and easy to make. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering with friends.
12. Rice Salad with Herbs
Rice salad with herbs is a refreshing way to use leftover rice. It’s quick to make and perfect for hot summer days.
Mix cold cooked rice with thinly sliced cucumbers and shallots. Add plenty of fresh herbs like mint and cilantro for bright flavor.
You can customize this salad with your favorite veggies and proteins. Try adding diced bell peppers, shredded chicken, or chickpeas.
Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette or lemon juice and olive oil. Toss everything together and chill before serving.
This versatile dish works great as a light lunch or side. You can make it ahead for picnics or meal prep too.
13. Curried Rice and Veggies
Got leftover rice? Turn it into a tasty curried rice and veggie dish.
Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for a few seconds.
Toss in your choice of chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and other spices you like. Cook the veggies for a few minutes until they start to soften.
Add your leftover rice to the pan and mix well with the spices and veggies.
Pour in a bit of water or broth to help the flavors blend. Cook until the rice is heated through and the liquid is absorbed.
14. Rice and Shrimp Paella
Got leftover rice? Turn it into a quick paella!
Heat oil in a large skillet and sauté onions and garlic. Add your cooked rice and stir in paprika and saffron for flavor.
Pour in some broth and white wine, bringing it to a low simmer. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
Toss in some frozen peas for color and extra veggies.
Let the liquid absorb and a crispy bottom form. This easy version of paella is ready in no time. It’s a tasty way to use up rice and create a new meal.
15. Cheesy Rice Muffins
Got leftover rice? Turn it into tasty cheesy muffins! These savory treats are easy to make and perfect for snacks or quick meals.
Mix your cooked rice with eggs, cheese, and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soak up the flavors. Add flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Toss in some chopped basil for extra flavor.
Spoon the mixture into muffin tins lined with paper cups. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
These muffins are great for lunch boxes or party appetizers. They’re versatile too – try adding different cheeses or herbs to switch things up.
16. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Rice
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a tasty way to use leftover rice. You’ll need cabbage leaves, ground beef, and your cooked rice.
Mix the rice with beef, onions, and spices. Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for a few minutes to soften them.
Place some of the rice mixture on each leaf. Roll them up and place in a baking dish. Pour tomato sauce over the rolls.
Bake the cabbage rolls at 350°F for about an hour. The result is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days.
This dish is versatile. You can swap the beef for other meats or make a vegetarian version with more veggies.
17. Rice and Sausage Skillet
Rice and sausage skillet is a tasty way to use leftover rice. Start by browning sliced sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Remove the sausage and set it aside. In the same pan, sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic until soft.
Add your leftover rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Return the sausage to the pan and mix everything together.
Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Cook for a few more minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
Serve your rice and sausage skillet hot. It’s a quick and filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
18. Rice and Spinach Cakes
Rice and spinach cakes are a tasty way to use up leftover rice. Mix cooked rice with chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, and an egg to bind it all together.
Shape the mixture into small patties. Fry them in a pan with a bit of oil until golden and crispy on both sides.
These cakes make a great side dish or light meal. You can add herbs or spices to change up the flavor. Serve them with a dipping sauce or top with a fried egg for extra protein.
19. Rice Porridge with Honey
Rice porridge with honey is a tasty way to use leftover rice. Start by blending cooked rice with water or milk until smooth. Heat the mixture in a pot, stirring often.
As it thickens, add a pinch of salt and your favorite spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Once the porridge reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat.
Drizzle honey over the top and stir it in. You can add extra toppings like sliced fruit, nuts, or a splash of cream. This warm, sweet dish makes a comforting breakfast or dessert.
20. Rice and Cheese Balls
Rice and cheese balls are a tasty way to use up leftover rice. You can make these crispy treats easily at home.
Mix your cold rice with shredded cheese and an egg. Shape the mixture into small balls.
Roll the balls in flour, then dip them in beaten egg. Finally, coat them in breadcrumbs.
Fry the balls in hot oil until golden brown. You can also bake them for a healthier option.
Serve your rice and cheese balls warm. They make a great snack or side dish. Try different cheeses for variety.
21. Rice and Tomato Stew
Rice and tomato stew is a tasty way to use leftover rice. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and your favorite spices.
Stir in the leftover rice and let it simmer. The rice will soak up the flavors as it cooks.
You can add vegetables like carrots or peppers for extra nutrition.
This stew is filling and warms you up on cold days. It’s quick to make and uses simple ingredients. You can adjust the spices to suit your taste.
22. Rice-Crusted Quiche
Rice-crusted quiche is a tasty way to use up leftover rice. Mix cooked rice with melted butter and press it into a pie dish to form a crust.
Bake the rice crust for 10 minutes at 350°F to set it. Let it cool before adding your fillings.
You can use any quiche filling you like. Try cheese, vegetables, and beaten eggs mixed with milk. Pour the mixture into the rice crust.
Bake the quiche for about 30 minutes until set. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
23. Chili Con Carne with Rice
Got leftover rice? Make chili con carne and serve it over the rice for a tasty meal. Cook ground beef with onions, garlic, and spices. Add tomatoes and kidney beans, then simmer until thick.
Heat up your leftover rice in the microwave or on the stove. Spoon the hot chili over the warm rice in bowls. Top with cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro if you like.
This hearty dish is perfect for cold days. It’s quick to make and fills you up. The rice soaks up the chili flavors, making each bite delicious. You can also wrap the chili and rice in tortillas for burritos.
24. Rice-Zucchini Fritters
Rice-zucchini fritters are a tasty way to use up leftover rice. Mix grated zucchini with cooked rice, eggs, and cheese in a bowl. Add some flour to help bind the mixture.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan and flatten them slightly. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
These fritters make a quick lunch or side dish. You can add herbs like mint or parsley for extra flavor. Serve them warm with a dipping sauce or on their own for a crunchy treat.
25. Coconut Rice Dessert
Got leftover coconut rice? Turn it into a sweet treat! Mix your rice with coconut milk and a bit of sugar in a pan. Heat it up, stirring often.
Add some vanilla extract for extra flavor. Toss in a handful of your favorite fruits – mango or pineapple work great. Cook until everything is warm and creamy.
Sprinkle some cinnamon on top for a nice touch. Serve it warm in bowls for a quick and tasty dessert. It’s an easy way to use up rice and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time.
Benefits of Using Leftover Rice
Using leftover rice has some great perks. You’ll save money and cut down on waste while enjoying tasty meals.
Reduction of Food Waste
Leftover rice gives you a chance to cut food waste. Instead of tossing it out, you can turn it into new dishes. This helps you use up what you already have in your fridge.
Rice stays good for a few days when stored right. You can use it in stir-fries, soups, or casseroles. Even small amounts work well in recipes like fried rice.
By using up leftover rice, you do your part to reduce the food waste problem. This is good for both your wallet and the planet.
Cost-Effectiveness
Using leftover rice saves you money. You don’t need to buy new ingredients for every meal.
Rice is cheap to begin with. When you use leftovers, you stretch that value even further. You can make a whole new meal without spending extra cash.
Many recipes call for cooked rice. By using leftovers, you save time and energy too. No need to cook fresh rice each time.
Try adding leftover rice to soups or using it as a base for quick lunch bowls. This helps you create budget-friendly meals all week long.
Tips for Storing Leftover Rice
Proper storage is key to keeping leftover rice safe and tasty. Cooling rice quickly and storing it correctly helps prevent bacterial growth. Using the right containers and reheating methods ensures your rice stays fresh.
Proper Storage Techniques
Let cooked rice cool for 30 minutes to 2 hours at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent moisture buildup.
Put the cooled rice in an airtight container or cover a bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
Store rice in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. It will keep for up to 4 days when refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze rice in freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Label containers with the date you stored the rice. This helps you track freshness. Divide large batches into smaller portions for easier reheating later.
Ensuring Food Safety
Cool rice quickly by spreading it in a thin layer on a baking sheet. This stops bacteria from growing as it cools. Never leave rice at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Reheat rice thoroughly until steaming hot. Only reheat rice once to limit bacterial growth. Throw away any leftover rice after 4 days in the fridge.
When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent drying out. Microwave with a damp paper towel cover or steam on the stove. Stir rice partway through reheating for even heating.
Creative Ways to Repurpose Leftover Rice
Leftover rice can be transformed into tasty new dishes with a few simple tricks. You can easily change its flavor and texture or pair it with different ingredients for delicious meals.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
To make your leftover rice more exciting, try frying it. Heat some oil in a pan and add your cold rice.
Stir-fry it until it’s crispy and golden. This works great for making fried rice dishes.
You can also turn your rice into crispy cakes. Mix the rice with an egg and some flour.
Shape the mixture into small patties and fry them until they’re crunchy on the outside.
For a sweet treat, use your rice to make rice pudding. Cook the rice with milk, sugar, and cinnamon until it’s creamy and sweet.
Pairing with Different Ingredients
Leftover rice pairs well with many foods. Try mixing it with cooked vegetables and a sauce for a quick stir-fry. You can add chicken, beef, or tofu for extra protein.
Rice also works great in soups and stews. Add it to your favorite broth-based soup to make it more filling. It soaks up flavors well and adds a nice texture.
For a simple side dish, mix your rice with herbs and lemon juice. This fresh-tasting rice goes well with grilled meats or fish.
You can even use rice in desserts. Mix it with coconut milk and tropical fruits for a tasty parfait.