The thrill of cooking a delicious burger is unmatched, but what happens when there are leftovers? Do you let them go to waste or do you get creative and turn them into something new? If you’re like many of us, you’d much rather find a way to repurpose those extra patties. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering leftover hamburger recipes that will breathe new life into your mealtime routine.
From savory casseroles to satisfying skillet meals, these ideas will inspire you to think outside the bun (pun intended). Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a hearty dinner solution, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and turn that leftover burger into a culinary masterpiece.
Cheesy Hamburger Quesadillas
Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with this indulgent twist on classic quesadillas! This recipe combines juicy hamburger, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble quesadillas by placing cooked hamburger mixture onto half of each tortilla, then topping with shredded cheese.
5. Fold tortillas in half and cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hamburger Fried Rice
Elevate your leftover rice game with this simple and flavorful Hamburger Fried Rice recipe. With the added texture of cooked hamburger, vegetables, and soy sauce, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup cooked hamburger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cooked hamburger; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed frozen vegetables; stir-fry until thawed and heated through.
5. Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Transfer to serving dish and garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Leftover Hamburger Pizza
Turn yesterday’s hamburger into a tasty pizza with just a few simple steps. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover ground beef and reducing food waste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked hamburger
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or 1 package of pizza dough
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust or shape the dough into a circle.
3. Spread the marinara sauce over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add the leftover hamburger, spreading it evenly across the sauce.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hamburger and Egg Scramble
A hearty breakfast that combines the classic flavors of hamburger and scrambled eggs, perfect for a busy morning on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large eggs
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Push the cooked beef to one side of the pan, then crack in the eggs. Scramble them until they’re just set, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Mix the eggs with the cooked beef, adding the diced onion and seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Loaded Hamburger Nachos
Loaded Hamburger Nachos Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic nachos with this loaded hamburger nachos recipe! Juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and crunchy toppings come together for the ultimate snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and season with salt and pepper.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
6. Spoon meat mixture over chips, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Top with cilantro, sour cream, and desired optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hamburger Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy hamburgers with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these colorful peppers are sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the hamburger mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hamburger Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that combines ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, frozen peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Hamburger Pasta Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy twist on a classic comfort food dish. A flavorful combination of ground beef, pasta, and bold spices, this Spicy Hamburger Pasta Bake is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and red pepper flakes to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and meat mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese; cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hamburger Hash Browns Casserole
This classic casserole combines the flavors of juicy hamburgers, crispy hash browns, and creamy cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen hash browns, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in hash browns, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheese and pour milk over the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick Hamburger Soup
Savor a comforting bowl of homemade soup with this easy-to-make Quick Hamburger Soup recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch, it’s a flavorful and filling meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and dried oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add frozen peas and carrots during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hamburger Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that combines the richness of macaroni and cheese with the savory flavor of hamburgers. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a separate pot, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Add cooked ground beef to the macaroni mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and dot with butter.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Breakfast Hamburger Burritos
Start your day with a delicious twist on traditional burritos – breakfast hamburger burritos! These flavorful wraps combine scrambled eggs, savory ground beef, and melted cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are softened.
3. Scramble eggs in a separate bowl; add to skillet with cooked beef mixture and stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning egg-beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Fold bottom edge up, then fold in sides and roll into a neat package.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hamburger-Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Enjoy a delicious twist on traditional burgers with this flavorful and nutritious recipe. Tender zucchinis are hollowed out and filled with a savory hamburger mixture, perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the hamburger mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray with cooking spray or oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hamburger Chili Cheese Dip
Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers, this hearty dip combines the flavors of classic chili with creamy cheese and a hint of hamburger. Serve with crackers, chips, or veggies for a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked hamburger (about 1/2 pound)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add chili, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped hamburger, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until warm and bubbly.
6. Serve hot with crackers, chips, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hamburger and Potato Skillet
A hearty and satisfying one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of juicy hamburgers, crispy potatoes, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the peas and carrots are thawed.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of a classic hamburger patty with crispy tater tots and creamy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Tater Tots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth.
5. Arrange Tater Tots in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the ground beef mixture and spoon the soup mixture over the top.
6. Sprinkle with paprika and salt to taste. If using cheese, sprinkle on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Hamburger Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the classic flavors of hamburgers, cornbread, and creamy sauce, perfect for a comforting meal or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cornbread mix, milk, egg, and paprika.
4. Combine cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes with green chilies, shredded cheese, and chopped onion. Stir well.
5. Pour cornbread mixture over the meat mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
6. Spray or drizzle with cooking spray or oil. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Five-Ingredient Hamburger Sliders
Simplify your game-day menu with these easy-to-make sliders that pack a flavorful punch. With just five ingredients, you can’t go wrong!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 8-10 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Grill the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble the sliders by spreading mayonnaise on each bun, followed by a cooked patty and finishing with the top bun.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hamburger Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a great way to use up leftover hamburger meat or ground beef, combined with colorful vegetables and savory seasonings. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked hamburger meat (ground beef)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked hamburger meat to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hamburger Stuffed French Bread
A delicious twist on traditional sandwiches, this recipe combines juicy hamburgers with crispy French bread and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (about 12-14 inches long)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise.
5. Stuff each half with the hamburger mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the hamburgers.
7. Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover hamburgers! This article presents 20 tasty recipe ideas to transform your leftover burgers into new and exciting meals. From classic comfort foods like shepherd’s pie and mac and cheese, to international-inspired dishes like quesadillas and stir-fry, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find plenty of creative ways to use up leftovers in breakfast burritos, pizza, and casseroles. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get cooking with your leftover burgers.
