When you’re planning a big BBQ or a special occasion dinner featuring tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of serving them straight from the smoker or oven. But what do you do with all those leftovers? The good news is that leftover rib meat can be transformed into a wide range of delicious and easy-to-make dishes that are perfect for quick weeknight meals or casual gatherings with friends.
In this article, we’ll show you 18 tasty and easy recipe ideas to use up leftover rib meat. From tacos and quesadillas to casseroles and sandwiches, we’ve got you covered with a variety of creative and mouth-watering options that will make the most of your leftover rib meat.
BBQ Rib Meat Tacos with Slaw
Get ready to elevate your taco game with this mouth-watering BBQ rib meat tacos recipe, topped with a refreshing slaw that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef ribs (bone-in)
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw ingredients:
+ 1 head of cabbage, shredded
+ 1 carrot, peeled and grated
+ 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or smoker to medium-high heat.
2. Season ribs with BBQ rub, then brush with olive oil.
3. Grill ribs for 20-25 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Shred cooked ribs into bite-sized pieces.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded rib meat onto a tortilla, followed by a dollop of slaw (see below).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Slaw Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking time: approximately 45-50 minutes (including slaw preparation).
Rib Meat Fried Rice with Vegetables
A flavorful and filling dish that combines tender rib meat with savory fried rice and a mix of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced rib meat
– 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
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cooked rib meat; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy at the bottom.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Leftover Rib Meat Quesadillas
Transform last night’s leftover ribs into a delicious and satisfying quesadilla breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded leftover rib meat (pulled pork or beef)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack work well)
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded rib meat, cheese, chopped onion, and sliced jalapeño.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the rib meat mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes, depending on your cooking pace.
Rib Meat and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
These sweet and savory peppers are packed with tender rib meat and melted cheese – a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cooked rib meat (beef or pork), shredded
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onions, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix shredded rib meat, cheese, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pulled Rib Meat Sandwich with Pickles
This mouthwatering sandwich combines tender pulled rib meat with tangy pickles and soft buns, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With just a few simple steps, you can create this delightful dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef ribs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 cup pickle slices
– Mayonnaise or spread (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season ribs with brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Place ribs in a large Dutch oven or heavy-duty foil pan. Cover with lid or foil.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight until meat is tender and easily shreds.
5. Remove from heat and use two forks to pull apart the rib meat into shreds.
6. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise or spread on buns, topping with pulled rib meat, and finishing with pickle slices.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (or overnight)
Rib Meat Hash with Potatoes and Eggs
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines tender rib meat with crispy potatoes and fluffy eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked rib meat (such as baby back ribs), shredded
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced potatoes and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the shredded rib meat with the potatoes and eggs.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rib Meat Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this savory combination of tender rib meat and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup rib meat, cooked and shredded
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough and place on a baking sheet.
3. Caramelize onions in olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Spread shredded rib meat evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with caramelized onions, salt, and pepper.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rib Meat and Bean Chili
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful chili recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef rib meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the rib meat in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook 1 minute.
4. Add tomatoes, beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rib Meat Loaded Baked Potatoes
Experience the ultimate comfort food combination – tender baked potatoes loaded with rich, fall-apart rib meat and creamy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup cooked rib meat (pulled or shredded)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with butter, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, mix the cooked rib meat with a splash of BBQ sauce (optional).
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each with a spoonful of rib meat, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for baked potatoes + 5-10 minutes for topping assembly.
Rib Meat and Cornbread Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender rib meat with crispy cornbread, perfect for a satisfying dinner or crowd-pleasing party dish. With its rich flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork ribs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the rib meat over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix milk, cornbread mix, melted butter, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
4. Add cooked rib meat to the cornbread mixture and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rib Meat Breakfast Burritos
Start your day off right with these flavorful breakfast burritos packed with tender rib meat, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick morning meal or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked rib meat (leftover or freshly cooked)
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the cooked rib meat and cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
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 scrambled eggs, rib meat, black beans, and shredded cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Rib Meat and Macaroni Salad
This hearty salad combines the fall-apart tenderness of slow-cooked rib meat with the comfort of al dente macaroni, all tied together with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef ribs
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the ribs in olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
4. Pour in beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
6. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Shred the cooked rib meat into bite-sized pieces. Combine with cooked macaroni, parsley, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (including oven time)
Rib Meat Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe that combines tender mushroom caps with rich rib meat filling.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 lb cooked rib meat, shredded
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix shredded rib meat with breadcrumbs, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Stuff each cap with the rib meat mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired.
5. If using cheese, top each mushroom with a sprinkle of grated cheddar.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rib Meat and Cheese Omelette
Start your day with a savory twist on the classic omelette by adding tender rib meat and melted cheese. This hearty breakfast dish is perfect for a weekend brunch or a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced cooked rib meat (such as short ribs or brisket)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a fork. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the diced rib meat and shredded cheese evenly over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Rib Meat Shepherd’s Pie
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender rib meat with creamy mashed potatoes and savory vegetables, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef rib meat (such as short ribs or chuck)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the rib meat in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, flour, and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in butter until melted.
5. In a separate pot, cook mashed potatoes according to package instructions.
6. Transfer the rib meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rib Meat and Spinach Pasta Bake
Transform tender rib meat and fresh spinach into a hearty pasta bake that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
– 1 lb beef short ribs, browned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 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 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine browned rib meat, marinara sauce, and spinach. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, rib meat mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Toss to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Rib Meat Nachos with Cheese Sauce
Elevate your nacho game with this mouthwatering combination of tender rib meat, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing party snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked rib meat (pulled apart)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 12-16 tortilla chips
– Salt, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in paprika and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Gradually whisk in half-and-half and bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cheese sauce cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Spoon rib meat over the chips, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Pour warm cheese sauce over the top.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
9. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rib Meat and Avocado Salad Wrap
A flavorful wrap filled with tender rib meat, creamy avocado, and fresh greens, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound slow-cooked rib meat (pull apart)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Warm the rib meat by heating it in a pan with a splash of olive oil.
2. Slice the warmed rib meat into thin strips.
3. In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay a large lettuce leaf flat on a surface. Place 1/4 cup of the avocado mixture in the center.
5. Arrange 2-3 slices of rib meat on top of the avocado mixture.
6. Fold the sides of the lettuce leaf over the filling, then roll the wrap tightly.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are pre-cooked)
Summary
Get creative with your leftover rib meat and try out these 18 delicious recipes! From classic comfort food to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Turn your leftover ribs into tacos with slaw, fried rice with veggies, or quesadillas. Get fancy with stuffed peppers or a rib meat pizza with caramelized onions. Or keep it simple with a pulled rib sandwich, loaded baked potatoes, or a hearty chili. There are even breakfast and brunch options like hash with eggs, breakfast burritos, and omelets. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got you covered!