Leftovers often get a bad rap, but with a little creativity, they can transform into delicious meals that save both time and money. One of the easiest ways to reinvent leftovers is by turning them into a stir-fry. Whether you have leftover rice, vegetables, or even cooked meat, stir-frying is a quick and simple way to bring new life to those ingredients. Just toss everything in a hot pan with a bit of oil, soy sauce, and your favorite seasonings, and you’ll have a flavorful dish in no time. You can also add some fresh ingredients, like onions, garlic, or bell peppers, to elevate the flavor.

Another great way to use leftovers is by making a hearty soup or stew. Leftover roast chicken, vegetables, or even pasta can easily be turned into a comforting bowl of soup. Simply toss the leftovers into a pot with some broth, herbs, and spices, and let it simmer. You can also blend the mixture for a creamy soup or add some beans and grains for extra heartiness. It’s a great way to clean out your fridge while creating a nutritious, warming meal.

For breakfast, don’t overlook the potential of leftover pancakes or waffles. If you’ve got some extras hanging around, cut them into strips and use them as a base for a breakfast casserole or as a topping for yogurt and fruit. You can also repurpose leftover mashed potatoes by making potato cakes. Simply mix the potatoes with an egg, some breadcrumbs, and any herbs or cheese you have on hand, then pan-fry them until golden and crispy. These savory cakes are perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.

If you have leftover bread, you can easily turn it into croutons or breadcrumbs. Simply cube the bread, toss it with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until crispy for homemade croutons that are perfect for topping soups and salads. Alternatively, you can grind the bread into breadcrumbs to use in meatballs, meatloaf, or to coat chicken or fish for a crispy, flavorful crust.

Leftover vegetables can be repurposed into a frittata or omelette. Eggs are a fantastic way to incorporate those extra veggies into a filling meal, whether you’re making a simple breakfast or a quick dinner. Just sauté the leftover vegetables, add the beaten eggs, and cook until set for a flavorful, satisfying dish.

With a little imagination, leftovers can be transformed into new and exciting meals that minimize waste and maximize flavor. From stir-fries to soups, frittatas to potato cakes, the possibilities are endless!