Are you tired of throwing away leftover rice from your meals? Look no further! With a little creativity, you can transform that excess rice into a variety of delicious and flavorful dishes. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering recipes that will make you wonder how you ever lived without them.
From savory stir-fries to sweet treats, our list features a mix of international flavors and comforting classics. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to satisfy. So go ahead, get creative with that leftover rice, and discover a whole new world of culinary possibilities!
Fried Rice with Vegetables and Soy Sauce
This classic Chinese dish is a staple for a quick and delicious meal. With the combination of fluffy rice, crispy vegetables, and savory soy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 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
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Pour cooked rice into the other side of the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice for about 2 minutes, until lightly browned.
7. Mix the rice and vegetables together; add soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Rice Balls with Marinara Dip
Elevate your snack game with these crispy cheesy rice balls served alongside a rich and tangy marinara dip. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Marinara dip (store-bought or homemade)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, and flour.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the rice balls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm with marinara dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins
This classic dessert is a staple of many cuisines, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, deliciously comforting, and perfect for any occasion. This recipe adds a sweet and spicy twist with the addition of cinnamon and raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine with milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is creamy.
3. Stir in raisins and cook for an additional minute.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Kimchi Fried Rice with a Fried Egg
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with a runny fried egg. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the kimchi and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the kimchi mixture to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the other half and scramble it until cooked through.
5. Mix the egg with the kimchi mixture.
6. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Leftover Rice and Ground Beef
Transform leftover rice and ground beef into a flavorful and nutritious meal by stuffing bell peppers with this easy recipe. This hearty dish is perfect for using up pantry staples and feeding the family.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 cups cooked leftover rice
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and add shredded cheese (if using). Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rice and Black Bean Burritos
Get ready to wrap up a delicious meal with these flavorful rice and black bean burritos!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado or other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with cooked rice, black bean mixture, and your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice with Chorizo and Peppers
This hearty Spanish-inspired rice dish combines smoky chorizo sausage with sweet bell peppers and savory tomato-based flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chorizo sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove chorizo from the skillet, leaving drippings behind. Add chopped onion and bell peppers; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 7-8 minutes).
4. Add garlic, smoked paprika, diced tomatoes, cooked chorizo, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add it to the skillet. Stir to combine with the chorizo-pepper mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leftover Rice Pancakes with Green Onions
Transform leftover cooked rice into crispy and flavorful pancakes, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go. This simple recipe is a great way to reduce food waste while adding some green goodness to your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked rice
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh green onions (scallions)
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine rice, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
3. Fold in the chopped green onions.
4. Heat about 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the rice mixture into the skillet.
6. Flatten slightly with a spatula and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on number of pancakes).
Crispy Rice Hash Browns
Transform plain rice into a crispy, golden-brown side dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. This recipe is easy to make and adds a delightful texture to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, grated cheese, chopped onion, and beaten egg. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each patty.
5. Spray the top of each patty with cooking spray or drizzle with oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Rice with Shrimp and Herbs
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring succulent shrimp and a fragrant blend of herbs. This dish is perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked rice and garlic butter mixture. Toss until well combined.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Rice and Egg Muffins
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the simplicity of rice and eggs with a hint of savory flavor. These muffins are perfect for meal prep or a quick morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add cooked rice, shredded cheese, and chopped scallions to the egg mixture. Mix well.
4. Brush muffin tin cups with olive oil.
5. Divide the rice-egg mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice-Stuffed Tomatoes with Parmesan
This recipe takes the humble tomato and gives it a flavorful boost by filling it with a savory rice mixture, topped with melted Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of each tomato.
6. Place tomatoes in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curry Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots
This flavorful recipe combines the simplicity of fried rice with the warmth of curry powder and the sweetness of peas and carrots. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 cup mixed peas and carrots
– Salt to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the curry powder; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the peas and carrots; stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked rice; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
6. If using eggs, push the rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through. Mix with the rice.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rice and Tuna Salad with Lemon Dressing
A refreshing twist on a classic tuna salad, this recipe combines tender tuna with fluffy rice, crunchy veggies, and a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, tuna, cucumber, bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Cashews
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic fried rice, this recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the crunch of cashews and savory spices. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables, pineapple, and cashews; stir-fry until the vegetables are tender.
3. Push the ingredients to one side of the pan; crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
4. Mix everything together, then add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Rice Fritters with Spicy Mayo
This recipe combines the crunch of rice fritters with the flavors of sautéed vegetables and a spicy kick from homemade mayonnaise. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these bite-sized treats are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Spicy Mayo ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
+ 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, vegetables, flour, and salt.
3. Beat in the egg and vegetable oil until combined.
4. Shape mixture into small patties.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix Spicy Mayo ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve fritters with Spicy Mayo and garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Rice Salad with Feta and Olives
Mediterranean Rice Salad with Feta and Olives: A flavorful and refreshing side dish or light lunch that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice, cooled
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (cook)
Cheesy Rice Bake with Broccoli and Chicken
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep. This Cheesy Rice Bake with Broccoli and Chicken is an easy and satisfying option that combines chicken breast, steamed broccoli, and creamy rice in a rich and cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned.
3. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and milk. Cook on low heat until heated through.
4. Combine cooked chicken mixture with rice mixture. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Leftover Rice Soup with Ginger and Chicken
Transforming leftover rice into a delicious and comforting soup is a great way to reduce food waste. This recipe combines the flavors of ginger, chicken, and vegetables to create a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice, chicken broth, soy sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Rice Bowls with Stir-Fried Veggies
This recipe combines savory teriyaki chicken, flavorful stir-fried vegetables, and nutty Japanese rice for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tbsp water.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. In same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp oil, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return chicken to pan; pour in teriyaki sauce mixture. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until chicken is coated.
6. Serve chicken and vegetable mixture over cooked Japanese rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Rice – it’s a staple in many cuisines, but what do you do when you have leftover rice? The answer lies in these 20 flavorful recipes that will transform your leftover rice into a delicious meal. From savory dishes like Fried Rice with Vegetables and Soy Sauce to sweet treats like Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins, there’s something for everyone. Get creative and try out these innovative ideas, such as Stuffed Bell Peppers with Leftover Rice and Ground Beef, or Curry Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots. Your taste buds will thank you!