12 Leftover Rice Dishes So Simple, You Don’t Need a Recipe

Got leftover rice sitting in your fridge? Don’t worry – you can easily turn it into something delicious with minimal effort! From quick stir-fries to comforting casseroles, these 12 simple ideas will help you transform that rice into tasty meals. From savory to sweet, these no-fuss dishes are so easy that you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them before.

Fried Rice

Heat some oil in a pan, then stir-fry your leftover rice with chopped vegetables, a splash of soy sauce, and any protein you like. A quick toss in the pan, and you’ve got a flavorful meal. This classic way to repurpose rice can be customized with whatever you have on hand.
Time: 10 minutes.

Rice Pudding

For a sweet treat, cook your leftover rice with milk, sugar, and a touch of vanilla to create a creamy rice pudding. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or dried fruit for extra flavor.
Time: 20 minutes.

Rice-Stuffed Peppers

Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with a mixture of leftover rice, cooked vegetables, and cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. Enjoy a hearty, all-in-one meal.
Time: 30 minutes.

Rice Pancakes

Combine leftover rice with a beaten egg and a spoonful of flour. Blend them to form a batter and cook in a hot pan until golden on both sides for a savory treat.
Time: 15 minutes.

Cumin Rice (Indian Jeera Rice)

Sauté cumin seeds in oil, then stir in your leftover rice and cook until heated through. Garnish it with fresh cilantro leaves. This Indian-inspired dish adds a flavorful touch as a side dish with minimal effort.
Time: 10 minutes.

Indian Lemon Rice

Sauté curry leaves and turmeric in oil. Add leftover rice, some roasted peanuts, and lots of lemon juice. Mix well until the rice is heated through. Garnish with chopped cilantro and enjoy a tangy, aromatic side dish.
Time: 10 minutes.

Rice Fritters

Mix rice with grated cheese, herbs, and beaten eggs, then form into patties and fry until crispy. These rice fritters make for a delicious snack or side dish.
Time: 15 minutes.

Rice and Bean Burritos

Wrap leftover rice with beans, cheese, and salsa in a tortilla for a hearty burrito. For extra flavor, add your favorite toppings, like guacamole or sour cream.
Time: 5 minutes.

Rice Soup

Add leftover rice to a pot of broth, along with some vegetables and any leftover meat or beans. Season well and simmer for a few minutes to create a comforting and hearty soup. It’s a great way to stretch your ingredients and make a filling meal.
Time: 15 minutes.

Stuffed Rice Balls (Arancini)

Season the leftover rice and make small balls. Stuff with a bit of cheese, and bake or fry until golden. These crispy rice balls are perfect for snacking.
Time: 25 minutes.

Cold Rice Salad

Toss leftover rice with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette for a light and refreshing rice salad. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish.
Time: 10 minutes.

Rice Casserole

Mix leftover rice with cooked veggies, a protein like chicken or beans, and a sauce like Alfredo, marinara, or even a cheese sauce. Pop it in the oven until everything is heated through and bubbly for a quick and comforting meal.
Time: 30 minutes.