Are you tired of throwing away leftover shredded beef, only to have it go to waste? Think again! With a little creativity and some inspiration from around the world, there are countless delicious ways to repurpose that leftover meat. From classic comfort foods to international twists, we’ve rounded up 19 mouth-watering recipes that will make you rethink your approach to leftovers.
From tacos to casseroles, and even breakfast burritos, these flavorful dishes showcase the versatility of shredded beef. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative with those leftovers, and discover a whole new world of culinary possibilities!
Shredded Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe that combines tender shredded beef, crunchy tacos shells, and a zesty fresh salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 tacos shells
– Fresh salsa ingredients (see below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the beef on all sides over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, chili powder, and cumin. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Shred the beef and season with salt and pepper.
6. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning the shredded beef onto a shell, followed by your desired toppings.
Fresh Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Combine all salsa ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (braising time) + additional time for assembling tacos.
Beef and Bean Enchiladas
Tender beef and creamy beans wrapped in tortillas, smothered in a rich tomato sauce – this classic Mexican dish is sure to please. With only a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese for serving (optional)
– Tomato sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Simmer mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning beef and bean mixture onto tortillas, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
8. Serve hot with shredded cheese and tomato sauce on top (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Shredded Beef Quesadillas
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic quesadilla! This spicy shredded beef version is packed with juicy, tender beef and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shredded beef (such as carnitas or brisket)
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shredded beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the beef is heated through.
4. Brush one side of each tortilla with a small amount of vegetable oil.
5. Place a tortilla, oiled-side down, in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the cheese on top of the beef, followed by another tortilla (oiled-side up).
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef, fluffy rice, and savory spices with the natural sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
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 the 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 pepper with the beef and rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place the peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Shredded Beef Nachos Supreme
Shredded Beef Nachos Supreme Recipe
Get ready to elevate your nacho game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines tender shredded beef, creamy cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season the beef with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Brown in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer to slow cooker. Add onion, garlic, and diced tomatoes. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Shred the beef with two forks and return it to the slow cooker. Stir in half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Spoon shredded beef mixture over the chips, followed by remaining cheese.
5. Bake at 300°F for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with jalapeño slices and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (slow cooker) + 10-15 minutes (baking)
Beef and Potato Hash Skillet
This hearty skillet recipe combines the savory flavors of beef, potatoes, and onions for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced potatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the hash and cook until melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the bold flavors of beef and cabbage with a hint of sweetness. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups thinly sliced cabbage
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Return the cooked beef to the pan, along with soy sauce and honey. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry!
Shredded Beef Shepherd’s Pie
This comforting dish is a twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, using tender shredded beef instead of ground meat. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add beef broth, tomato paste, flour, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Shred the beef with two forks. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate pot, boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter and milk.
6. Assemble the pie by layering shredded beef, peas and carrots, and mashed potatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Experience the flavors of Latin America with these savory beef and cheese empanadas, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Sesame seeds or paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add oil and warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place 1 tablespoon of beef mixture, 1/2 cup shredded cheese in center of each circle.
7. Fold empanada in half and press edges to seal.
8. Brush with beaten egg for glaze (optional).
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or fry until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shredded Beef Chili
A hearty, comforting bowl of shredded beef chili that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the beef in 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add diced bell pepper and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
7. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and browned beef to the pot.
8. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
9. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
10. Shred the beef with two forks and return it to the chili.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Beef and Cornbread Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that combines tender beef, savory cornbread, and creamy sauce for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in frozen corn kernels, milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
7. Layer the beef mixture, followed by the prepared cornbread mix, and finally sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shredded Beef Sliders with Pickles
Elevate your slider game with tender shredded beef and tangy pickles!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 hamburger buns
– Pickles, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
– Optional: shredded cheese, lettuce, tomato, and/or mayo for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine beef, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add enough liquid to cover the beef (about 2 cups); it should be about half-covered.
4. Cover and braise for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Shred the beef with two forks; it should be tender and easy to pull apart.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble sliders by placing shredded beef on toasted buns, topping with pickles, and adding optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (braising) + assembly time
Beef and Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the garlic, beef broth, water, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8
Shredded Beef Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender shredded beef with flavorful fried rice, this recipe is a staple for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced cooked beef (shredded or thinly sliced)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked beef and stir-fry until heated through.
5. Push the beef mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in a small amount of oil and scramble in 1-2 eggs (if using).
6. Mix the egg with the beef, then add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry until combined and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish gets a modern twist with tender beef and earthy mushrooms sautéed in a rich and creamy sauce, served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
7. Serve beef and mushroom mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shredded Beef Breakfast Burritos
Shredded Beef Breakfast Burritos Recipe
Start your day off right with these flavorful burritos packed with tender shredded beef, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 eggs
– 6 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, chopped cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, beef broth, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
4. Scramble eggs in a bowl and set aside.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning shredded beef onto a tortilla, followed by scrambled eggs and shredded cheese.
6. Add optional toppings as desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines tender beef with wilted spinach and creamy ricotta cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; 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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. In a separate bowl, combine cooked ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Stuff each pasta shell with beef and spinach mixture, then top with ricotta cheese mixture.
8. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish; drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shredded Beef and Pasta Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 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 (180°C).
2. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Avocado Salad Wraps
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines tender beef, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked beef (such as flank steak or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 large tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine sliced beef, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the beef mixture and toss to coat.
3. Warm the tortilla wraps according to package instructions or grill for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the wraps by spooning the beef mixture onto the center of each wrap, then topping with diced avocado.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover new and delicious ways to use leftover shredded beef with these 19 flavorful recipes! From savory dishes like Beef and Bean Enchiladas and Spicy Shredded Beef Quesadillas, to comforting classics like Shredded Beef Shepherd’s Pie and Beef and Cheese Empanadas, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find international-inspired meals like Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry and Shredded Beef Fried Rice, as well as creative twists on familiar favorites like Shredded Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa and Beef and Potato Hash Skillet. Get inspired to reduce food waste and elevate your meal prep game!
Leave a Reply