Today, let’s explore a variety of creative ways to make use of cooked rice in some of my favorite leftover rice recipes.
What to do with leftover rice is something I ask myself all the time. We order Chinese, Indian and Thai takeout often and always have an extra container of cooked rice when we are done the meal.
Instead of relegating it to the back of the refrigerator only to throw it out a week later, I try to come up with interesting and delicious ways to transform it into enticing dishes that breathe new life into those delicious grains.
Keep reading to discover some of my favorite ways to use leftover rice. Best of all? Many are ready in less than 30 minutes!
How long can you keep cooked rice in the fridge?
Before we start cooking, it’s important to know that leftover rice won’t last forever! If not eaten immediately, cooled cooked rice should be stored in a shallow container, covered tightly and refrigerated.
In my experience, cooked rice typically lasts in the fridge for about 4 to 6 days when stored properly.
After that time, cooked rice can start to lose its texture and flavor. Additionally, there’s a higher risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to foodborne illness if consumed.
It’s important to always check for any signs of spoilage, such as an unusual smell or appearance, before consuming leftover rice. If in doubt, it’s best to discard it to ensure food safety.
Easy Leftover Rice Recipes - 12 Ideas for Using Cooked Rice
Cooked rice is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. You can use it to make everything from rice fritters to stir fries and rice pudding.
Repurpose your rice with one of these tested recipes with leftover rice, all sure to have your family asking for more.
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Turn left over rice into a delicious side dish with this easy recipe for cheesy fried rice patties.
Combine leftover rice with onions, cheese, and fresh herbs and flatten them. Gently fry until golden brown and crispy for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Leftover rice is an excellent base for quick and flavorful stir-fries. Simply toss it into a hot skillet with an assortment of fresh garden vegetables, a protein such as venison, and some olive oil.
The rice readily absorbs the flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes.
Fried rice is one of my favorite leftover rice ideas. Sauté onions, garlic, then add the rice and a few frozen mixed vegetables. Leftover spare ribs flavor this recipe, but any kind of pork also works.
Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and add a sprinkle of spring onions for a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Broccoli Cheese Chicken and Rice Skillet Casserole – Easy 15 Minute Recipe
Combine leftover rice with cheese, vegetables, and a creamy skillet sauce to create a hearty casserole. Wine adds an elevated touch.
This recipe uses chicken thighs for extra flavor.
The next time you are wondering what to make with leftover rice, try something sweet!
This easy recipe has all the creaminess and sweetness you'd expect from rice pudding, but without that heavy feeling afterwards. You can elevate the recipe with an extra sprinkling of spices and slices of fresh fruit.
My daughter made these California rolls with freshly cooked rice but leftover rice also works great.
Simply spread a thin layer of rice over a sheet of seaweed, add your favorite fillings (such as imitation crab, pickled ginger, fresh cucumber and avocado), and roll tightly. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce for a fun and flavorful meal.
A sushi making kit has everything you need to make sushi rolls like a pro!
Another of my favorite ways to use leftover rice is as a stuffing mixture.
Mix some cooked rice with ground turkey, mushrooms, fresh herbs and diced tomatoes to create a flavorful stuffing for bell peppers . Bake until the vegetables are tender and the filling is heated through for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Be sure to top with some cheese in the last few minutes of baking!
This recipe for albacore tuna rice paper spring rolls rivals the ones my husband and I get at our favorite Thai restaurant. They are light, crunchy and go perfectly with the sweet and spicy home made dipping sauce.
I've made them both with and without the leftover rice and they are delicious either way. If you use cooked rice, just ensure that it is thoroughly cooled before using it in your fresh rolls, and add a splash of rice vinegar or soy sauce for added flavor.
Wondering how to use some leftover rice tonight?
Adding cooked rice to your favorite soup recipes gives them extra heartiness and texture. It’s particularly delicious in chicken and vegetable soups like this one.
This leftover rice frittata is packed with veggies and cooks in the oven, making it an easy family meal.
It is also the perfect option for a packed lunch for school or work or a mid-afternoon snack!
It's Taco Tuesday! These leftover rice tacos are a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. Canned corn, salsa and taco seasonings make this an easy meal to prepare.
These tacos work great with either Chinese and Indian takeout rice.
If you don't have any leftover rice, make some for this recipe quickly in a rice cooker.
Transform leftover rice into a cozy dessert by simmering it in milk with sugar, butter, and a splash of vanilla extract. Serve warm or chilled, topped with fruits, nuts, or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting treat that’s perfect year-round.
Share this collection of recipes using leftover rice on Twitter
If you enjoyed learning how to use cooked rice, be sure to share these recipes with a friend. Here is a tweet to get you started:
Discover the endless possibilities for using leftover rice! 🍚 From savory stir-fries to tasty tacos, rice puddings and even frittatas, learn how to turn yesterday's rice into today's delicious meals. #LeftoverRice #Recipes… Share on XPin these leftover rice recipes
Would you like a reminder of these recipes using leftover rice? Just pin this image to one of your recipe boards on Pinterest so that you can easily find it later.
You can also watch our video on YouTube!
