Are you tired of the same old leftover stuffing reheated from last night’s dinner? Look no further! We’ve gathered 18 delicious and creative ways to reinvent leftover stuffing into a whole new meal. From sweet treats like Stuffing Waffles with Maple Syrup Drizzle, to savory dishes like Leftover Stuffing Breakfast Casserole and Stuffing-Stuffed Bell Peppers, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast solution or an impressive dinner party option, our collection of leftover stuffing recipes is sure to inspire. We’ll show you how to transform last night’s leftovers into a fresh and exciting meal that will leave your taste buds singing.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creative leftover stuffing recipes, exploring everything from sweet and savory twists on classic dishes to innovative uses for leftover stuffing in unexpected places.
Stay tuned for our 18 Savory Leftover Stuffing Recipes Deliciously Reinvented and get ready to take your leftovers to the next level!
Stuffing Waffles with Maple Syrup Drizzle
Elevate your breakfast game with this innovative recipe that combines the comfort of stuffing with the crispness of waffles. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for a weekend brunch or a unique dinner party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons sugar
– Maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, chicken broth, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Add flour and sugar; stir until just combined.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of the stuffing mixture onto the center of the waffle iron.
5. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on waffle iron)
Leftover Stuffing Breakfast Casserole
Transform last night’s leftover stuffing into a delicious breakfast casserole perfect for the morning after Thanksgiving or any day of the week. This easy recipe is a great way to repurpose leftovers and enjoy a hearty, comforting breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover stuffing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine leftover stuffing, shredded cheese, milk, diced onion, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with crumbled bacon.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stuffing-Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of homemade stuffing. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, cheese, and pecans (if using). Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffing and Turkey Empanadas
Elevate your Thanksgiving celebration with these savory empanadas, packed with turkey, stuffing, and all the fixings. This recipe combines the best of both worlds in a crispy, flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked turkey
– 1/2 cup stuffing mixture (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the turkey, stuffing, onion, and cheese.
4. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each empanada circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or fry until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (baked) or 5-7 minutes per batch (fried)
Leftover Stuffing Pancakes with Cranberry Sauce
Use up leftover stuffing from your holiday feast by turning it into a tasty breakfast or brunch treat – pancakes! Add some sweet and tangy cranberry sauce for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover stuffing (cooled)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
– Cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add cooled stuffing, milk, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface.
5. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with cranberry sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stuffing-Crusted Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this creative recipe that combines crispy, crunchy breading with savory stuffing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup cooked stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together stuffing, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the egg, then coat in the stuffing mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffing and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
These savory bites are perfect for any gathering or party. With a flavorful filling of bread stuffing, melted cheese, and sautéed mushrooms, you’ll be the star of the show.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (any variety)
– 1 cup bread stuffing
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushroom caps in butter until they release their moisture.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with bread stuffing, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Sprinkle grated cheese over the stuffing and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Stuffing Frittata
Transform last night’s stuffing into a delicious breakfast or brunch dish with this simple frittata recipe. Perfect for using up leftover turkey, bread, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 eggs
– 1 cup leftover stuffing (cooled)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or sage)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the cooled stuffing to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Butter a 9-inch (23cm) non-stick skillet or omelette pan over medium heat.
5. Pour in the egg-stuffing mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, until edges start to set.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the frittata is golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Stuffing and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash
This hearty recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with savory sausage and a hint of herby stuffing. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium acorn squash
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup homemade stuffing (or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Stuff each squash half with cooked sausage, then top with stuffing mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Stuffing-Topped Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your traditional shepherd’s pie game with the addition of savory stuffing on top. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup bread-based stuffing mix
– Butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
6. Mix stuffing with melted butter and spread on top of potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Leftover Stuffing Dumplings in Broth
Revive Last Night’s Leftovers with a Soothing Broth: Leftover Stuffing Dumplings Recipe
Transform leftover stuffing into a comforting and flavorful meal by turning it into dumplings, served in a warm broth. This easy recipe is perfect for using up last night’s turkey day leftovers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover stuffing
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, flour, and egg. Mix until just combined.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a large pot.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the stuffing mixture into the broth.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Enjoy your rejuvenated leftovers in a comforting and delicious way!
Stuffing and Ham Croquettes
These crispy croquettes are a perfect blend of savory stuffing and tender ham, making them a great addition to any gathering. They’re easy to make and can be served hot or cold.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale bread, cubed
– 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– All-purpose flour for dredging
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, ham, parsley, and cheese.
3. Add the egg and mix until well combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Dredge each croquette in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the croquettes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Serve hot or let cool completely and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before reheating.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffing-Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with this creative recipe that combines the tender meat with savory stuffing for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners, these stuffed pork chops are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup stale bread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together bread, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay pork chops flat and make a horizontal incision in each to create a pocket. Stuff each chop with the bread mixture, dividing it evenly among the four chops.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed pork chops and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the pork chops during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Stuffing Bread Pudding
Transform leftover stuffing into a delicious bread pudding perfect for using up holiday scraps. This sweet and savory treat is ideal for a post-holiday brunch or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale leftover stuffing
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine stuffing, sugar, and spices.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stuffing and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the flavors of savory stuffing with a colorful stir-fry, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, oyster sauce, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper and mixed vegetables; stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked stuffing and season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings (soy sauce, oyster sauce, or chili flakes).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffing-Crusted Meatloaf
This recipe puts a creative spin on the classic meatloaf by using stuffing as the crust, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. Perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf.
4. Spread the stuffing evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Drizzle with chicken broth and olive oil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Leftover Stuffing Quesadillas
Transform your leftover stuffing into a delicious and crispy quesadilla, perfect for a post-holiday treat or a quick lunch. This recipe is a great way to reuse leftovers and enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving or Christmas in a new and exciting way.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover stuffing (any type)
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with stuffing, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with shredded cheese and fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Stuffing and Gravy Stuffed Biscuits
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these Stuffing and Gravy Stuffed Biscuits, packed with the warm flavors of traditional stuffing and savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup prepared stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons turkey gravy (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into coarse crumbs.
3. Pour in buttermilk and mix until dough forms. Fold in prepared stuffing and turkey gravy.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles).
5. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Summary
Get creative with your leftover stuffing! From savory breakfast dishes to sweet treats, these 18 innovative recipes will inspire you to think outside the box. Turn stuffing into waffles with maple syrup drizzle, or use it as a filling for bell peppers and empanadas. Stuff chicken tenders, mushrooms, and squash for a protein-packed meal. Or, get cozy with a frittata, bread pudding, or quesadillas. Even try using stuffing as a topping for shepherd’s pie or as a crust for meatloaf. With these ideas, your leftovers will never go to waste again!
