24 Simple Leftover Rice Recipes

Rice takes center stage in these easy dishes, from creamy risotto to crispy fritters and hearty soups. Hey, let’s be real–making too much rice is just part of the cooking game, right? It’s easy to do, especially since that tiny amount of dry rice can be so deceiving!

1.Vegetarian Wild Rice Stuffed Mushrooms

Turn leftover wild rice into something special with this tasty recipe. Wild rice pairs beautifully with mushrooms, making it a standout choice here. Mix it with artichoke and cheese for the perfect little appetizers.

Or, if you’re feeling hearty, stuff a portobello mushroom for a meat-free meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

2.Breakfast Fried Rice

Ever wondered what sets breakfast fried rice apart from regular fried rice? Honestly, not much! Both typically include ham or bacon, green onions, and egg.

The main difference? Fried rice can be loaded with extras like mushrooms and peas, while breakfast fried rice keeps things simpler. Want to shake things up? Try drizzling a little teriyaki BBQ sauce over your morning fried rice for a fun flavor boost.

3.Easy Vegan and Gluten-Free Lentil Loaf

Here’s a game-changer for vegan and gluten-free cooking that’s anything but boring. This hearty lentil loaf is packed with nutrients and is satisfying enough to serve as a main dish alongside roasted veggies.

The secret to its rich flavor? Mashed lentils cooked in broth for a boost of taste. It’s a perfect centerpiece for the table, or you can get creative by baking it in muffin tins for individual portions.

Either way, it’s a flavorful and filling option that’s sure to impress.

4.Leftover Rice Dosa Recipe

This delightful South Indian dish is made with rice, lentils, and sometimes potato, creating a tasty and versatile option for any meal. Thin and crepe-like in texture, they can be served as a simple side to complement a flavorful curry or enjoyed on their own as a satisfying snack.

For a sweet twist, why not try adding a hint of sugar and filling them with your favorite jam?

5.Neeragaram – Leftover Rice Porridge

Step away from the usual breakfast routine and meet this fresh, savory twist on porridge. It’s nothing like the sweet versions you’re used to–no brown sugar or Cracker Barrel Fried Apples here.

Instead, you’ll find a sophisticated and hearty way to kick off your day. Rice, as we all know, is super filling and budget-friendly, making this dish a practical delight.

The magic happens when you combine buttermilk, shallots, green chili, and curry leaves with fenugreek seeds and cilantro. If fenugreek seeds are hard to find, don’t worry–mustard seeds make a fantastic substitute.

One key step? Let the mixture sit overnight before adding the onion, chilis, and curry leaves. The wait is worth it for this flavorful, elegant start to your morning.

6.Thai Crispy Rice

Thai Crispy Rice is a dish that might seem simple but is surprisingly addictive. The secret lies in cooking the rice without stirring it, allowing the bottom to crisp up in the pan.

As you toss and break the rice into bite-sized pieces, you’ll drizzle in the sauce, enhancing the flavor. Serve it with a fried egg and a sprinkle of green onions for a delicious and satisfying meal.

7.Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Need a quick dinner? This mid-week meal is here to save the day! With just five minutes of prep, you’ll brown some beef with onions and garlic. After draining the excess, mix in rice, frozen veggies, and creamy celery soup.

Feel free to get creative–swap out ingredients to your liking. Try using cream of mushroom soup with broccoli and corn for a pop of color. Top it with grated cheese and crushed crackers during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serve it up with a simple green salad, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal in no time!

8.Leftover Rice Frittata

Looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast? This rice frittata is a game-changer! Traditionally made with potatoes, this version uses rice for a fresh twist that’s just as hearty.

Loaded with Parmesan cheese, it’s packed with flavor and texture. The best part? Since the rice is already cooked, you can whip this up in just 10 minutes.

Simply whisk the eggs, add them to the pan, and you’re ready for a delicious, protein-packed breakfast that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

9.Stuffed Pepper Soup

Imagine your favorite stuffed peppers transformed into a warm, comforting bowl of soup. This recipe captures all the flavors you love, and the best part? It’s ready in just 30-40 minutes!

The prep is a breeze–just five minutes, and you can even skip browning the meat if you’re short on time. Simply toss everything into the pot, let it simmer, and you’ll have a hearty, delicious meal perfect for a weeknight or a lazy day.

10.Quick & Easy Fried Rice Recipe

Did you know that fried rice works best with cooked and cooled rice, not fresh? It’s a game-changer! Start by cooking bacon (if you’re using it) with some onion, then add in your extras.

This recipe uses corn and bean sprouts for a nice crunch. Here’s a tip: push everything to one side, scramble your eggs, and let them set before mixing.

This keeps your rice from getting soggy. The result? Perfectly tossed fried rice that’s anything but mushy.

11.Chicken and Rice Soup

Leftover rice and rotisserie chicken just found their new purpose in life. This might just be the ultimate way to breathe new life into those leftovers.

While there are tons of creative ways to use up rotisserie chicken, this one might just be the best. After a bit of veggie chopping, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying soup ready in just 30 minutes.

It’s quick, easy, and a total game-changer for using up what you already have on hand.

12.Leftover Rice Pudding

Quick Rice Pudding Looking for a speedy rice pudding recipe? This one’s a breeze! It uses leftover cold rice, milk, and eggs to create a deliciously sweet custard.

Just remember to use unseasoned rice–add-ins like jalapeños would throw off the flavor. Mix it all up, and you’ve got a tasty treat in no time!

13.Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a breeze to make and packed with flavor. This recipe uses ground beef for extra heartiness, along with tomatoes and leftover rice for a tasty, efficient meal.

Once stuffed and cooked, the peppers soften slightly, sometimes blistering on the sides, but they still hold their shape beautifully. Plus, these can be made ahead of time and travel wonderfully, making them perfect for any occasion.

14.Easy Risotto Cakes

Transform leftover rice into something truly special with these versatile rice cakes! If you’re not a fan of the crunch that comes with fritters, these cakes offer a perfect alternative.

Shaping them can get a bit messy, but the result is well worth it–thick, flavorful cakes that are a joy to make. Customize with your favorites like cheese, green onions, or bacon bits, then serve them hot and golden for a delicious treat.

15.Rice Fritters

The beauty of fritters is that you can turn almost anything into them. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned with just a touch of salt–these fritters make the perfect side for any meal.

While I love a good rice-only patty, the truth is, you can mix in just about anything. Try adding some cooked rice to your corn fritters for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

16.Rice Cutlet Recipe

These crispy rice and potato cakes are a creative twist on risotto cakes, blending rice and mashed potatoes for a richer, creamier texture. Packed with aromatic Indian spices, they’re a fantastic addition to any Indian-inspired meal.

When frying, keep an eye on them and take them out of the oil just as they turn golden for the perfect crunch. Serve them up as a flavorful side that’s sure to impress!

17.Bibimbap! (Korean Rice Bowl)

These rice bowls might look like a gourmet creation, but the best part? They come together in just about an hour. Don’t let the ingredient list scare you off–it’s simpler than it seems, and everything can be prepped one step at a time.

Plus, feel free to skip a few steps or take some shortcuts (like grabbing pre-shredded veggies or using different mushrooms). We won’t judge! In fact, we encourage it.

Layer it all up, and you’re good to go.

18.Rice Pakora Recipe (Leftover Rice Pakora)

These crispy, spiced rice balls are a must-try! With a crunchy exterior and a fluffy, tender inside, they’re packed with chopped veggies and flavorful spices like ginger, turmeric, and Besan (ground lentils).

The classic version features peas and carrots, but feel free to mix it up with corn, a sprinkle of curry powder, or even some sweet raisins. They’re the perfect side when serving curry, and they’re equally delicious with a side of chutney or dipped right into butter chicken.

19.Parmesan Rice Cakes Recipe

Love the idea of fried rice balls but looking for a simpler take? This recipe streamlines the process without skimping on flavor. Once your mixture is ready, give it a quick check to ensure it holds together nicely–add a little more egg if needed to get the right consistency.

When they’re golden and crispy on both sides, these cheesy bites are perfect as a side for roasted chicken, pork chops, or even your morning eggs. Easy, delicious, and totally versatile!

20.Vegetarian Bean and Rice Burrito

Burritos are one of those magical meals that work for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can stuff them with beef, pork, chicken, or go plant-based–it’s totally up to you.

Personally, I’m a sucker for a spicy potato, bacon, and egg burrito loaded with sharp cheddar and caramelized onions. But let’s talk about the rice–it’s a game-changer!

Packed with zesty lime, hearty beans, a kick of hot sauce, and a hint of garlic, it’s anything but boring. Black beans add a nice texture, while refried beans bring in some welcome moisture.

Want to take it up a notch? Add some spicy guacamole, and you’ve got yourself a seriously satisfying dinner that’s ready to impress.

21.Ubbu Rotti – Leftover Rice Roti

Rice Roti is a fresh take on traditional flatbread, hailing from India. Made with leftover rice, rice flour, and just a pinch of salt and pepper, this simple recipe is both gluten-free and vegan.

It’s a fantastic alternative to naan or flour tortillas, offering a delightful change of pace for any meal. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a lighter option, Rice Roti brings a new dimension to your table.

22.Easy Leftover Risotto Balls

These little bites are a game-changer for using up leftover rice. Imagine a crispy exterior giving way to a gooey, cheesy center–pure magic! To make them, you’ll wrap a cube of mozzarella in leftover rice, then coat it in egg, flour, and breadcrumbs before frying until golden.

Serve them up as a tasty appetizer with a side of marinara sauce, or enjoy them as a satisfying late-night snack. The mozzarella ensures that perfect cheese pull, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère or smoked cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

These bites are quick, delicious, and sure to become a favorite!

23.Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

This easy casserole is a breeze to make, with only the broccoli needing a quick cook. Using cooked rice keeps the bake time short, making it perfect for a busy day.

Combine shredded chicken, broccoli, cheese sauce, and extra cheese over a bed of rice for a simple, family-friendly meal. To make it even easier, you can use store-bought cream of chicken soup instead of homemade sauce for a quick and tasty shortcut.

24.Leftover Rice Pancakes

These pancakes might surprise you with their texture. While they’re sweet and lightly spiced, they’re not your typical fluffy pancakes. Instead, they offer a hearty, oatmeal-like texture that’s both comforting and delicious.

If you’re feeling extra fancy, add a touch of butter and let the edges crisp up a bit – it’s like enjoying a warm, crispy rice pudding in pancake form.

Plus, they’re super versatile. Swap out the egg for mashed bananas for a tasty twist, and don’t forget to serve them with a drizzle of peanut butter for an extra-special treat.