Are you tired of reheating the same old leftovers for days on end? Do you find yourself stuck in a culinary rut, wondering what to do with that extra jar of spaghetti sauce collecting dust in your fridge? Well, wonder no more! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes to help you breathe new life into that leftover spaghetti sauce and turn it into something truly delicious.
From classic comfort foods to international twists and savory snacks, we’re sharing our favorite ways to repurpose this pantry staple. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meal solutions or a culinary enthusiast seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these creative recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep your taste buds singing.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of leftover spaghetti sauce creativity and discover new flavors and fun ways to get the most out of your meals!
Spaghetti Sauce Stuffed Peppers
Spaghetti Sauce Stuffed Peppers: A Twist on a Classic Recipe!
These stuffed peppers combine the flavors of spaghetti sauce with the convenience of bell peppers, making for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 jar of spaghetti sauce (28 oz)
– 1 lb ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked ground beef or sausage, spaghetti sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the stuffed peppers and add breadcrumbs on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Sauce Pizza
Transform your leftover pasta sauce into a delicious pizza with this simple recipe. Perfect for using up those last bits of sauce and making a tasty meal from scraps!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover pasta sauce (any type)
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust or 1 package of pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Optional toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spread the leftover pasta sauce evenly over the pre-baked pizza crust or roll out the pizza dough.
3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. Add any desired toppings.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti Sauce Meatball Subs
Transform classic Italian flavors into a satisfying sub sandwich with this simple recipe. Tender meatballs, rich spaghetti sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese come together for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup spaghetti sauce
– 4 sub rolls
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic in a bowl. Form into meatballs.
3. Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat spaghetti sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Assemble subs by placing cooked meatballs on the rolls, topping with heated spaghetti sauce, and finishing with melted mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Spaghetti Sauce Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy twist on traditional spaghetti sauce. Perfect for parties or movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot with crackers, chips, or vegetables for a delicious snack!
Spaghetti Sauce Shakshuka
Combine the warmth of North African shakshuka with the comfort of Italian spaghetti sauce for a unique and flavorful dish. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, spaghetti sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Create 2 wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leftover Sauce Lasagna Rolls
Transform leftover lasagna sauce into a tasty and creative snack or meal with these easy-to-make lasagna rolls. Perfect for using up extra sauce, cheese, and pasta, this recipe is a great way to reduce food waste.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup leftover lasagna sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine leftover lasagna sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Dip each cooked lasagna noodle into the sauce mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place the coated noodle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti Sauce Stuffed Zucchini
Transform ordinary zucchinis into a flavorful masterpiece with this simple recipe that combines the richness of spaghetti sauce with the crunch of fresh vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed zucchinis are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving about 1/4 inch thick walls.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked spaghetti sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Stuff each zucchini with the spaghetti sauce mixture, dividing it evenly among the four.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed zucchinis and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Spaghetti Sauce Soup
This recipe combines the flavors of spaghetti sauce with the comfort of a warm soup, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup spaghetti sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cooked spaghetti (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, spaghetti sauce, and dried oregano.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with cooked spaghetti if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Sauce Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful Spaghetti Sauce Bruschetta recipe, featuring the classic combination of toasted bread, fresh tomatoes, and a rich spaghetti sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup spaghetti sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mozzarella cheese shreds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes and chopped basil.
4. Spread a spoonful of spaghetti sauce over each toasted bread slice, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with tomato-basil mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, sprinkle mozzarella cheese shreds on top.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Sauce Pasta Bake
Turn yesterday’s leftovers into a satisfying meal with this simple pasta bake recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you’ll have a comforting dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover pasta sauce
– 8 oz cooked pasta (any shape)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, leftover sauce, and frozen vegetables. Toss until well combined.
3. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Sprinkle basil, salt, and pepper over the cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Sauce Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game by combining the flavors of Italy and Mexico. This unique recipe brings together the tanginess of spaghetti sauce with the warmth of melted cheese and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti sauce
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together spaghetti sauce and garlic powder.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Spoon the spaghetti sauce mixture over the cheese, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
9. Repeat with the second tortilla and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Spaghetti Sauce Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creative twist on classic stuffed mushrooms! By combining the savory flavors of spaghetti sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh parsley, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together spaghetti sauce, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spaghetti sauce mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Top each mushroom with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Sauce Calzones
Turn leftover sauce into a delicious calzone filled with melted mozzarella and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for reducing food waste and creating a tasty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover pasta sauce (any type)
– 1 package pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped ham, pepperoni slices, or diced bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spoon the leftover sauce onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spaghetti Sauce Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the rich flavors of spaghetti sauce with the comforting warmth of shepherd’s pie, creating a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
6. In a separate pot, boil diced potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
7. Transfer the spaghetti sauce mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spaghetti Sauce Grilled Cheese
Spaghetti Sauce Grilled Cheese: A Twist on a Classic!
This recipe combines the comfort of grilled cheese with the rich flavors of spaghetti sauce, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of melted mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of spaghetti sauce
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Spread a layer of spaghetti sauce on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Place one or two slices of melted mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
6. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the cheese.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Leftover Sauce Stuffed Bread
Transform your leftover sauce into a delicious and satisfying bread filling. This recipe is perfect for using up excess tomato sauce, pesto, or any other savory sauce you have on hand.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of stale bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup leftover sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the leftover sauce and olive oil.
4. Stuff each bread slice with about 1-2 tablespoons of the sauce mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the sauce filling.
6. Place the stuffed bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted (if using).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti Sauce Eggplant Parmesan
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the flavors of tender eggplant, rich spaghetti sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe is a twist on traditional eggplant parmesan, adding the comforting warmth of homemade spaghetti sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, fry eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a separate baking dish, spread a layer of spaghetti sauce. Arrange fried eggplant slices on top.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs over the eggplant.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spaghetti Sauce Taco Filling
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors. This Spaghetti Sauce Taco Filling combines the rich, meaty taste of spaghetti sauce with the bold spices and textures of a traditional taco.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup spaghetti sauce
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, cumin, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the Spaghetti Sauce Taco Filling onto a tortilla.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover spaghetti sauce! This article shares 18 delicious recipe ideas to transform that extra sauce into something new and exciting. From stuffed peppers and pizza to subs, dips, and more, you’ll find inspiration for using up every last drop of sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So next time you’ve got extra sauce on hand, don’t toss it – get creative and give one (or two, or three…) of these ideas a try!
