Are you tired of throwing away those pesky leftover hamburgers, only to be left with a fridge full of scraps? Well, throw those worries out the window because we’ve got 18 game-changing recipes that will transform your leftovers into mouthwatering masterpieces. From comforting casseroles to international-inspired twists, these creative hamburger recipes will make you wonder how you ever lived without them.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying brunch option, our leftover hamburger recipes are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. And the best part? You won’t have to sacrifice flavor or quality just because it’s a leftover meal. So go ahead and get creative with those patties – your taste buds will thank you!
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is an easy and satisfying meal to make. With its combination of ground beef, pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as macaroni or penne)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, meat mixture, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Hamburger Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines cooked hamburger with vegetables and spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup cooked hamburger (ground beef or turkey)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked hamburger, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until everything is well combined.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Leftover Hamburger Soup
Transform your leftover hamburger into a delicious and comforting soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe is a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy a tasty meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked hamburger
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: frozen peas and carrots, chopped bell peppers
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the leftover hamburger, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add frozen peas and carrots or chopped bell peppers during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Leftover Hamburger Soup!
Hamburger Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy ground beef with sautéed onions and bell peppers for a satisfying main dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hamburger Shepherd’s Pie
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Season mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Hamburger Quesadillas
Transform classic burgers into crispy, cheesy quesadillas that are perfect for a twist on a favorite dish. This recipe combines the flavors of beef, cheese, and tortillas to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
5. Add the cooked burger mixture on top of the cheese.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hamburger Pizza
A twist on traditional pizza, this recipe combines the flavors of a classic burger with melted cheese and crispy crust. It’s a fun and easy meal to make for family or friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness and place on a baking sheet.
5. Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Top with cooked ground beef mixture, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and frozen peas and carrots.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hamburger Hash
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend brunch. This recipe combines crispy hash browns with savory ground beef and a blend of spices for a satisfying and flavorful breakfast-for-dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced potatoes, onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
5. Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet and stir to combine with the hash browns.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hamburger Taco Salad
A flavorful and filling twist on traditional salads, this Hamburger Taco Salad combines the best of both worlds – savory beef and crunchy veggies, all wrapped up in a tortilla shell. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 avocado, sliced
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the taco seasoning to the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the salads by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, topping with mixed greens, black beans, avocado, and cheese.
6. Add any desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Hamburger Mac and Cheese
A simple yet satisfying twist on a childhood favorite, this recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the savory flavor of ground beef. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, ground beef mixture, milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese in a large mixing bowl.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hamburger Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Transform ordinary zucchinis into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe. Hamburger stuffed zucchini boats are a great way to enjoy the taste of burgers in a healthy and refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
• 4 medium-sized zucchinis
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add breadcrumbs, cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef. Mix well.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the hamburger mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hamburger Pasta Bake
A comforting classic that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat, this hamburger pasta bake is a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, meat sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Hamburger Empanadas
These savory pastries combine the flavors of juicy hamburgers with the warmth and comfort of empanadas. Perfect for a quick snack or dinner, these empanadas are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness. Place a tablespoon or two of the beef mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together to seal.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hamburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized burger wonders! Sweet Hawaiian rolls and savory beef come together to create the perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 Hawaiian sweet bread dinner rolls, split
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 2 tablespoons relish
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Chopped lettuce and tomato for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form ground beef into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast Hawaiian rolls on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble sliders by spreading mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish on the roll, followed by a patty and a dollop of Worcestershire sauce.
7. Garnish with lettuce and tomato, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hamburger Chili
This classic recipe is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a cozy night in. With ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups of canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups of canned diced tomatoes
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hamburger Stroganoff
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz sour cream
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as egg noodles or fettuccine)
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream.
7. Serve the hamburger mixture over cooked noodles and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hamburger Cornbread Casserole
This recipe combines the flavors of a juicy hamburger with the warmth and comfort of cornbread, all in one easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix, milk, and cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer with half of the hamburger mixture, followed by half of the cornbread mixture.
6. Repeat layers and top with remaining butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Hamburger Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a twist on traditional breakfast by combining the flavors of burgers and scrambled eggs. This hearty breakfast scramble is perfect for busy mornings or brunches with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the mixed bell peppers and cook until tender.
4. Push the beef and pepper mixture to one side of the skillet.
5. Crack the eggs into the other side and scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the beef and pepper mixture.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and add crumbled bacon.
8. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover hamburgers! These 18 innovative recipes will transform yesterday’s dinner into a whole new culinary experience. From comforting casserole to savory soup, and even sweet breakfast options, there’s something for everyone. Try making Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, Hamburger Fried Rice, or Leftover Hamburger Soup to name a few. Or get adventurous with Hamburger Stuffed Bell Peppers, Hamburger Quesadillas, or Hamburger Pizza. Whatever your taste buds desire, these leftover hamburger recipes will surely hit the spot.
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