Do you often find yourself with a pot of leftover cooked rice, wondering what to do with it? You’re not alone! Having a stash of cooked rice in your fridge can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it’s a great base for a quick meal or snack. On the other hand, it can sit there for days, taking up valuable real estate and getting stale. But fear not, dear reader! We’ve got 20 delicious recipes to rescue that leftover rice and turn it into a tasty treat.
From classic comfort food dishes to international-inspired meals, we’ll show you how to transform your day-old rice into a satisfying supper or snack. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for inspiration, these leftover rice recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Read on to discover our top 20 ideas for using up that leftover rice and making it shine once again!
Fried Rice with Vegetables and Egg
A classic Chinese dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This fried rice recipe is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and rice, and it’s a quick and delicious meal for any time of day.
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 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for 1-2 minutes, or until tender.
4. Push cooked vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetables.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
9. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Leftover Rice Pancakes
Transform last night’s leftover rice into a delicious and fluffy pancake, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Optional: chopped scallions or grated cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together rice, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until well-beaten. Add the melted butter and whisk until combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
5. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cheesy Rice Balls
Satisfy your cravings with these crispy and flavorful rice balls filled with melted cheese. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (cooled)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled rice, grated cheese, flour, and salt. Mix well until combined.
3. Add olive oil and mix until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Gradually add water as needed to achieve a pliable but not sticky consistency.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
6. Place the rice balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each ball.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
This classic dessert is a comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its creamy texture and sweet, spicy flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened and the rice is tender.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract (if using).
6. Let it cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this bold and flavorful Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice recipe! A Korean-inspired twist on the classic fried rice, this dish combines the spicy kick of kimchi with savory soy sauce and crunchy vegetables.
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 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg; scramble until cooked through. Mix with vegetables.
5. Add chopped kimchi and soy sauce to the other side of the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until kimchi is caramelized and fragrant.
6. Combine kimchi mixture with vegetable mixture. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
7. Season with Gochujang, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Rice and Black Bean Burritos
A classic Mexican-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. These burritos are a great option for a quick and satisfying meal or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cumin; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked black beans and cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning the rice and bean mixture onto each tortilla, and top with shredded cheese if desired.
7. Roll up tightly and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rice-Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory taste of rice, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked rice mixture and top with cooked ground beef mixture.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Rice Cakes
These crispy rice cakes are infused with the rich flavors of garlic butter, making them a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups or as a snack on their own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, softened butter, and minced garlic.
3. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the rice is evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired cake size.
5. Shape each portion into a patty or log shape.
6. Place the rice cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rice and Tuna Salad
This recipe combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the protein-packed goodness of canned tuna, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is easy to customize to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, tuna, bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time for rice)
Vegetable Rice Soup
This comforting and nutritious soup is a perfect way to use up any combination of your favorite vegetables, rice, and spices. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and filling meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to tenderize, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice and Egg Muffins
A simple and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that combines the comfort of rice with the protein-packed goodness of eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice, cooled
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped herbs (e.g., parsley, chives), grated cheese, or diced ham for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
3. Add cooled rice to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among 6-8 muffin tin cups or small ramekins.
5. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any optional ingredients (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
This classic Thai dish combines the flavors of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and spicy chili flakes with fluffy cooked rice, creating a delicious and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Thai jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken breast
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add cooked chicken, pineapple, cumin, and chili flakes; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice; stir-fry until combined and heated through (about 5 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rice and Chicken Casserole
A comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This casserole combines the flavors of chicken, rice, and creamy sauce with a crunchy topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cream of chicken soup. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked rice with the chicken mixture. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese and crushed crackers.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rice and Spinach Frittata
A classic frittata gets a nutritious boost with the addition of cooked rice and wilted spinach. This flavorful breakfast or brunch dish is perfect for using up leftover rice and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add cooked rice, chopped spinach, and melted butter to the egg mixture; mix well.
4. Pour the egg-rice-spinach mixture into a greased 9-inch pie plate or oven-safe skillet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the frittata is set and slightly golden brown on top.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the frittata during the last 2 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice and Bean Bake
This comforting casserole combines the classic duo of Mexican rice and beans with a twist, adding cheese and spices for an extra boost of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rice and Shrimp Stir-Fry
A classic and quick Chinese-inspired dish that combines the savory flavors of shrimp with the comforting warmth of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon 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 onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Combine the cooked rice with the shrimp mixture and stir-fry until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rice and Pea Croquettes
A delightful Spanish-inspired snack, these bite-sized croquettes are perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup fresh peas
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: lemon wedges and aioli for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, peas, onion, and egg.
2. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until well combined.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small cylinders (about 1 inch long).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the croquettes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with lemon wedges and aioli, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Rice and Corn Fritters
Rice and Corn Fritters Recipe
These crispy fritters are a perfect snack or side dish, packed with the flavors of rice, corn, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, corn kernels, flour, salt, baking powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into small patties or fritters.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the size of the fritters.
Rice and Mushroom Risotto
Rice and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
This creamy and savory rice dish is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the simplicity of arborio rice, this risotto is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed, stirring frequently.
6. Warm broth in a separate pot; add 1/2 cup at a time to the rice mixture, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
7. Remove from heat; stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Rice and Sausage Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines flavorful sausage, fluffy rice, and tender vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Return sausage to the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious leftover rice recipes to transform your meal prep game. From classic dishes like Fried Rice with Vegetables and Egg to creative twists like Leftover Rice Pancakes and Cheesy Rice Balls, these mouth-watering ideas will breathe new life into last night’s rice. Spice up your weeknights with spicy kimchi fried rice or rice-stuffed bell peppers. Whether you’re a busy professional or a foodie on-the-go, this collection of recipes has got you covered for a quick and satisfying meal.
