Are you tired of letting leftover beef go to waste? Do you struggle to come up with new and exciting ways to reuse it? You’re not alone! With a little creativity, you can turn last night’s roast or Sunday’s slow-cooked brisket into a delicious meal that will become a family favorite. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for busy cooks who want to reduce food waste and get the most out of their grocery budget. From comforting casseroles to spicy stir-fries, we’ve got you covered with these tasty and easy-to-make leftover beef recipes. So, let’s dive in and see what culinary wonders we can create!
Beef and Cheese Quesadillas
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional quesadillas, these beef and cheese fillings will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large 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 chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, place a tortilla and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Spoon the beef mixture onto half of the tortilla, then fold the tortilla in half.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Fried Rice
Savor the flavors of China with this classic Beef Fried Rice recipe, a simple and satisfying meal that combines tender beef, fluffy rice, and savory vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced beef (e.g., sirloin or ribeye), cooked to desired doneness
– 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 beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and stir-fry until softened, about 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the soy sauce and cooked beef back into the pan. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
This recipe combines tender beef, crispy tacos, and a vibrant fresh salsa for a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Fresh Salsa Recipe:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup diced fresh tomato
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are soft.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas and topping with fresh salsa, if desired.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Beef and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines tender beef and crispy potatoes with a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until they start to brown.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the skillet, stirring to combine with the potatoes and onions.
6. Sprinkle smoked paprika over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Mushroom Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines tender beef strips with sautéed mushrooms and a rich tomato sauce, all served over a bed of al dente pasta. A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick to prepare and delicious to eat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 2 cups (250g) mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup (60ml) red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook 3-4 minutes or until browned, then remove from pan.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic to the pan; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Add tomato sauce and red wine (if using) to the pan; stir to combine.
5. Return beef strips to the pan; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve pasta with beef and mushroom mixture, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Bean Chili
This hearty beef and bean chili recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. With tender chunks of beef, creamy beans, and rich flavors, this chili is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
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 and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, black beans, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry that combines tender beef strips with crunchy broccoli florets, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable 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 skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6. Return the beef strips to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Soup
This classic soup recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a cold day or as a meal prep option. With tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and a rich broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups water
– 1 large head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the water, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Add the shredded cabbage to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Beef and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic breakfast burrito. This recipe combines tender beef, scrambled eggs, and creamy cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with beef and egg mixture, then topping with shredded cheese.
6. Add optional toppings as desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of beef, spinach, and creamy ricotta. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Add garlic and spinach; cook until wilted.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the meat mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Pour marinara sauce over shells and top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal? Look no further! This Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines tender beef, gooey cheese, and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, then top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Onion Pie
This classic pie filling combines tender beef and sweet onions with a flaky pastry crust, perfect for a comforting meal or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (such as ribeye or sirloin)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 250ml beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large pan, cook the beef and onions over medium heat until browned.
3. Add garlic, flour, broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out the pie crust and fill with the beef mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Sweet Potato Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect combination of tender beef, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices. It’s a great meal for a chilly evening or a relaxing weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 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 until cooked through, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Beef and Corn Enchiladas
A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines tender beef and sweet corn with creamy cheese and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can enchilada sauce (red or green)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional: sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
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, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning beef mixture onto tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Barley Soup
This classic soup is a comforting blend of tender beef, nutty barley, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up during the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the barley is tender.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Beef and Avocado Salad Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the juiciness of grilled beef with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as flank steak or ribeye)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season beef strips with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice.
3. Grill beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and olive oil in a bowl.
5. Slice grilled beef into thin strips.
6. Assemble wraps by spreading avocado mixture on tortilla, followed by sliced beef and a sprinkle of salt.
7. Roll up tightly and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Beef and Tomato Pasta Bake
A hearty and satisfying pasta dish that combines ground beef, fresh tomatoes, and creamy cheese, perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 250g pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
– 500g ground beef
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato puree, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a large baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftovers! This article features 18 mouthwatering recipes that can be made using leftover beef. From comfort food classics like Beef and Potato Hash to international-inspired dishes like Beef Fried Rice, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy breakfast burrito or a hearty chili to warm up on a chilly night, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.