Perk Up Those Leftovers
Most people could save a substantial amount on their food bill just by not throwing away food. Most of us mean well but don't really want to eat the same thing over and over and don't know what else to do with the leftover food.
Keep Track of your Freezer
It can take a bit of effort to keep track of what's in your freezer but I find just hanging a piece of paper on the freezer door for quick notes really helps. A small whiteboard is even better. Periodically, declare a "freezer challenge." Do an inventory of what's in your freezer and get creative! Here are some idea to help.
Leftover Meats
Have sandwiches with soup or salad for dinner, depending on the weather. Heat leftover beef, pork or chicken with barbecue sauce, shredding it as it heats and serve on a bun.
Use leftover beef roast or chicken or turkey to make beef hash or chicken or turkey hash.
Whether you have a fancy panini grill, a George Forman grill, or just a good frying pan, you can create some delicious grilled sandwiches or monte cristo sandwiches.
Leftover ham or chicken can be used to make quiche.
Use shredded cooked chicken or beef or leftover pork carnitas or chili verde to make burritos. Put about 1/4 cup of meat, some sauteed onions and peppers if you like, and shredded cheese in the middle of flour tortillas. Wrap up burrito style, then wrap in foil. Place all the burritos in one gallon sized freezer bag. Bake frozen at 350 for 45 minutes to an hour or thaw and bake 25-30 minutes.
Leftover Stew
Turn your leftover chicken or beef stew into pot pies. You can freeze the leftover meat and gravy or sauce after dinner and make the pot pie in a few weeks or just wait a few days.
Add more liquid and turn your stew into soup. Add some cooked beans, corn, rice, or potatoes (whatever's not in your stew) so you add some new flavors.
Leftover Ravioli
Make a lasagna like dish with leftover ravioli. Put a bit of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, place a layer of ravioli, then top with more sauce and grated cheese.
Leftover Mashed Potatoes
Make potato pancakes for breakfast or dinner the next day. Blend the leftover potatoes with an egg or two, shape into patties, and brown in a small bit of oil. Of course, you can always top a nice shepherd's pie, too.
Leftover Macaroni and Cheese
Stir chopped ham or a can of chili into leftover macaroni and cheese to make it a main dish.
Leftover Lasagna Noodles
Break them up and add to soup.
Leftover Cooked Rice
For a savory dish, turn it into fried rice. For a dessert or warm breakfast, heat with some milk or yogurt and a bit of sugar for rice pudding.
Leftover Beef Brisket or Roast
Slice leftover beef brisket or roast thinly. Layer cooked onions and peppers, sliced beef, and Provolone or Swiss cheese in a toasted bun. Put under the broiler until the cheese melts.
Back to Cooking with Leftovers
