Food waste is not only tough on your wallet, but it also adds up in your household’s environmental footprint. According to the USDA, food waste in the United States accounts for an estimated 30 to 40 percent of the food supply. Fortunately, with a few creative kitchen strategies, you can turn leftovers into fresh, new meals and significantly cut down on waste.

Repurposing what’s already in your fridge isn’t just smart—it’s also an easy way to stretch your grocery budget and keep family meals exciting. With a little imagination and a few fresh ingredients, you’ll give yesterday’s meals a second life.

Turn Leftover Roasted Vegetables into Stir-Fry

Roasted vegetables make an excellent base for a quick, flavorful stir-fry. Simply chop your leftover veggies into bite-sized pieces, sauté them with garlic and soy sauce, and add a protein like scrambled eggs, tofu, or pre-cooked chicken. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Use fresh aromatics like ginger, garlic, or scallions to elevate your stir-fry.

Transform Cooked Meats into Hearty Soups

Leftover chicken, beef, or turkey can be repurposed into nourishing soups. Shred the cooked meat and add it to a pot with broth, vegetables, and your choice of pasta or rice. Season with herbs and spices for added flavor.

Soups are particularly freezer-friendly, so consider making a large batch to enjoy later. Stock up on soup-making staples like broth and fresh vegetables.

For inspiration, check out BBC Good Food’s soup recipe collection.

Make a Frittata with Leftover Vegetables and Cheese

Frittatas are one of the easiest ways to turn leftovers into a delicious, protein-packed meal. Whisk together eggs, fold in any cooked vegetables or meats, sprinkle in some shredded cheese, and bake until golden and set. Serve with a simple salad or crusty bread for a satisfying brunch or dinner.

Reinvent Rice or Pasta as a Casserole

Leftover rice or pasta provides the perfect base for a quick casserole. Combine your leftovers with a protein, vegetables, sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting, all-in-one meal.

Create Grain Bowls with Leftovers

Build simple grain bowls by layering cooked grains, leftover proteins, and vegetables. Top with a homemade vinaigrette or yogurt-based sauce for added flavor. The beauty of grain bowls lies in their flexibility—you can use whatever you have on hand and supplement with fresh herbs or toppings.

For sauce ideas, try these Bon Appétit options for savory sauces.

Make Quesadillas or Wraps from Odds and Ends

Quesadillas and wraps are fast and forgiving. Spread leftover beans, roasted vegetables, or shredded meats onto a tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and cook until crispy. Serve with salsa or a simple green salad for an easy lunch or dinner.

Freeze Leftovers for Future Meals

If you’re not ready to repurpose leftovers right away, freeze them for later use. Label containers with the contents and date, and follow safe storage practices. For guidance, refer to the FDA’s freezer storage chart.

Freezing helps extend the life of cooked meals and ingredients, making your efforts in the kitchen go even further.

With a few creative strategies, you can transform leftovers into fresh, delicious meals while reducing food waste and saving money. Shop for fresh additions and enjoy turning what you already have in your kitchen into something new and exciting. Waste less, save more, and keep mealtimes creative and satisfying.