25 Homemade Leftover Rice Recipes

Got leftover rice? Curious about the delicious meals you can make with it?

From fritters to rice cakes, here are some ideas to use up your rice next to a delicious dinner!

I’m sure you’ve cooked rice at least once in your life.

It’s an easy weeknight staple that goes beyond just being a starch for cooking!

There’s so much you can do with it, from making fried rice to turning it into a filling dessert.

And don’t worry if you’re not familiar with rice.

This collection of recipes is a great place to start.

From sweet and sticky to fluffy, there’s something for everyone on this list.

So get ready to eat like a king with these simple but delicious leftover rice recipes.

1. Leftover Rice Fritters

Here’s another fantastic recipe for leftover rice fritters.

You can use any leftover rice you have on hand and be sure to cook them according to the package directions.

These are probably the best rice fritters because they aren’t as starchy or sticky.

They still taste amazing, but there is no added sweetness.

The best part about these fritters is that they are super easy to make!

Just mix everything together in a bowl and fill the pan with batter.

Bake them until golden brown, then serve them up once they cool.

2. Leftover Rice Casserole

This is a great way to use up some leftover rice.

Drizzle it with olive oil and bake for a rich, flavorful dish.

You could also use instant brown rice for the crust!

It’s important to cook this over low heat because the water will evaporate and reduce, leaving you with just the flavor.

Feel free to try different toppings here.

I like mine pretty cheesy, so I often add grated Parmesan on top.

I hope you have some extra time today.

This casserole is meant to be made in one pot and leftovers can be reheated without much fuss!

3. Leftover Rice Balls

Tired of the same old rice ball?

Try this easy recipe for something new.

These rice balls are coated in a sweet and sticky honey-rice mixture.

It’s flavored with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and lemon juice for a warm and chewy interior.

These balls are perfect as is or topped with ground nuts or candied fruit.

Serve them at your next dinner party or grab one to tide you over until dessert!

4. Baked Rice Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert filled with chocolatey goodness, this baked rice pudding is the recipe for you.

Made of mashed potatoes and rice, it’s sweet, velvety-soft, and absolutely decadent.

It’s also gluten-free and vegan!

I love the combo of the cocoa powder and maple syrup.

They make such an excellent pairing.

5. Mexican Leftover Rice

I have a confession: I never actually kept my rice in the fridge.

Instead, I just used it on the table as part of a side dish.

As I’ve gotten older, though, I’ve been trying to eat more healthy and less calories and leftovers!

I decided to try this recipe and am so glad that I did!

The trick is to steam your rice slightly until it’s almost tender.

Then, add some cumin and seasonings and cook for another 10 minutes or so.

When you take out of the microwave, store your cooked rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

6. Leftover Rice Tacos

I don’t think I can ever get enough of this rice taco recipe.

It’s so good, and you can have it ready in just 30 minutes!

There are a few things that need to be done before finishing off the burrito filling.

First, soak some long-grain white rice for about an hour and then cook it.

Next, you’ll fill your tortilla with rice, cheese, beans, and salsa.

Roll it up and cook it in the microwave for just a minute or two.

These are so tender and fluffy, you won’t believe they came from leftover rice!

7. Leftover Chinese Rice Pudding Recipe

I love rice pudding.

It’s just so comforting to me, and it’s filling enough for breakfast or dessert.

This recipe is dairy-free, but not missing a beat!

It’s full of yummy ingredients like coconut milk and vanilla, which is the perfect balance of sweet and creamy.

It also has plenty of sugar for added decadence.

8. Masala Rice

Masala rice is an excellent way to use leftover rice without sacrificing flavor.

It’s cooked with a blend of spices and tomato paste, then served with veggies.

The rich flavor of the spices masks the blandness of leftover rice.

Serve this dish as a side for any meal or add it to your favorite dishes for a sumptuous meal.

9. Rice Patties

These rice patties are the perfect comfort food.

They’re soft, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!

The texture is a little bit like meatloaf or meatballs, but they’re much lighter.

They also feature loads of vegetables in the form of chopped tomatoes, green onions, and garlic.

They make a fantastic side dish to any meal you serve them with.

I love pairing these rice patties with a simple salad for an easy dinner meal.

10. Kimchi Fried Rice

We all love fried rice, but what about kimchi fried rice?

This spicy and tangy kimchi fried rice is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

It’s the perfect comfort food that doesn’t need much help from a side dish.

There’s no need to make stew in this recipe because it’s super easy to use store-bought kimchi.

Just fry some Asian noodles with ground beef and scallions, then mix everything together in a bowl.

11. Shrimp Fried Rice

You’ll love the subtle, earthy flavors in this shrimp fried rice recipe.

It’s a perfect way to kick off your week with a bang.

The garlic, onion, and shallot gives this dish its rich sweetness.

The shrimp makes it extra-crispy on the outside which is great for dipping.

Top it with a dollop of sour cream or mayo if you want to taste that classic fried rice goodness.

12. Beef Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a hearty and filling meal, look no further than this recipe.

The secret to making this tasty dish is the addition of thinly sliced carrots.

They add extra moisture and flavor to the rice without adding calories.

This dish is also great in a pinch.

Just be sure to make it early in the day so that it can chill overnight before serving.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/881016745828252557/

13. Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

This chicken enchilada rice casserole is a convenient, hearty dish that can be on the table in just 30 minutes.

The filling is made with shredded rotisserie chicken and sauteed vegetables.

It’s then topped with cheese and baked until golden brown.

It’s even easier to make than you think!

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/351912460627665/

14. Vegetable Rice Cutlet

This recipe is for anyone looking for a healthy, easy recipe that’s good for them and the planet.

You can have this dish on the table in less than 30 minutes.

It only calls for rice, water, green peas, bell peppers, onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and oil.

The vegetables will cook quickly while you build your rice into a crispy crust.

It’s great with some pickles on top or fresh tomato slices.

I like mine fried!

15. Vegetable Gharwavda

Gharwada is a stir-fry made with vegetables, spices, and herbs.

The dish is served in a hot bowl or platter.

It’s usually paired with rice, but it also goes well with chicken or eggs.

This recipe is gluten-free.

But you can use whatever veggies you have on hand!

16. Pineapple Fried Rice

This recipe is another dish that’s a must-make on the weekends.

It’s sweet, savory, and just a little spicy.

It also calls for only two ingredients: rice and pineapple.

After sauteing the pineapple in oil and butter, add it to the pan along with eggs and milk.

Mix everything well until you have a smooth mixture, then pour it over your cooked rice.

The rice will absorb all of the flavors from both the chicken and pineapple.

Serve this with extra chives or scallions if you want some added crunch.

Or even some shredded cheese!

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/250090585550336509/

17. Japanese Hibachi Fried Rice Recipe

The concept of hibachi mixed with rice is so delicious.

That is, if you’re not a fan of the idea of eating fried rice on its own.

It’s all about the ingredients – and that includes the healthy crunchy fried onions.

You use white rice for this one because it has a milder flavor that you won’t mind pairing with this spicy sauce.

If you want to add more heat, just add in some jalapenos!

18. Grandma Beulah’s Rice Pancakes Recipe

Try this recipe if you want the ultimate breakfast meal.

It’s got a delightful flavor and is so easy to make.

You need just four ingredients (rice, onion, butter, and salt) to make these delicious pancakes that are sure to become a family favorite.

They’re soft and fluffy on the inside with a crunchy outside.

The best part ?

You can eat them any way you like!

19. Rice Crusted Quiche

This recipe is perfect if you want to serve something that’s savory, filling, and healthy at the same time.

The rice crust adds a crunchy layer of flavor to the custard.

And it’s also a nice change from all those muffin recipes!

Serve this with your favorite veggies and garlic bread for an easy dinner or brunch.

But don’t worry, it doesn’t taste too complicated.

The rice crust gives everything a simple yet flavorful finish.

20. Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

I love cilantro lime rice.

It’s so flavorful and fragrant.

Plus, it’s also a great way to use up any leftover rice leftovers for the next day.

All you need is some cilantro, avocado oil, salt, and lemon juice.

Throw them in some chicken broth (or water) and cook until the rice is tender.

Since the recipe calls for cream of mushroom soup, I would recommend adding it when you add in your veggies.

This will ensure that everything is fully cooked before serving!

21. Leftover Rice Idli Recipe

This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice leftovers.

It’s also very easy to make, taking only 3 minutes and 10 ingredients.

All you need to do is cook the rice with spices and add eggs, milk, and oil.

Then you can enjoy it as an idli or chutney.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/142426406957449910/

22. Klatkager Recipe

If you’re a fan of sweet and spicy flavors, you’ll love this klatkager recipe.

This dish is made with chopped mangoes and red chili pepper.

It packs the flavor of the mangoes with a kick from the chili peppers.

The combination creates a colorful dish that is sure to delight your palate.

23. Coconut Rice Pudding

This coconut rice pudding is ideal if you want something a little different.

It’s sweet and creamy, with a rich coconut flavor that pairs well with the nutty rice.

If you don’t have coconut milk on hand, try using almond milk or soy milk.

Either way, it’s great for adding extra protein to the dish.

24. Filipino Garlic Fried Rice

We have a sweet and savory fried rice recipe for you!

Serve this dish with chicken, beef, or pork for a hearty meal.

The garlic adds an extra oomph to this dish.

It’s also perfect if you want something with more texture.

This is a great option when you need to get your veggies in while still keeping things light.

25. Spicy Dirty Rice Recipe

We’re all about spice in the kitchen, but this dish is just too good to miss!

Spicy dirty rice goes beyond any traditional version.

You’ll use cayenne pepper, chili flakes, and raw garlic to give your rice a kick.

Enjoy as leftovers or make it into a side dish.

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