10 Things to Do With Leftover Beef

Beef isn’t as notorious a leftover as poultry because it usually comes in smaller portions. But sometimes that pot roast turns out to be more than the family can eat in one meal, or you end up cooking up too many steaks or burgers for your block party. But don’t worry – there are plenty of tasty ways to use up leftover beef. Here are ten ideas.

1.    Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a delicious dish that looks fancy but is actually pretty simple to make. You can use just about any kind of beef in it – hamburger, steak and roast beef all work nicely. Prep is easy since the beef is already cooked. Serve the stroganoff over rice or noodles, and add a baked potato or vegetable medley for a complete meal.

Here’s a stroganoff recipe that might do the trick:

http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/beef_stroganoff/

2.    Tacos

It’s easy to make tacos out of leftover beef. This recipe makes it even easier by doing the cooking in the microwave – just crumble up leftover hamburgers and omit the step for cooking the beef since that’s already been done. You can also use the same seasonings on steak strips or shredded beef. If you don’t have all of the seasonings called for in the recipe, use whatever you have, adding a little at a time until it’s just right.

Here is the recipe: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/microwave-tacos/

3.    Beef Stew

In the winter, there’s nothing like a big, steaming bowl of beef stew to warm the body and soul. It’s quicker to make than you might think – since the beef is already cooked, you can have it ready in about an hour with this recipe. Just add some crackers or biscuits, and you have a complete, hearty meal that the whole family will love.

Here’s a handy recipe: http://www.food.com/recipe/leftover-roast-beef-stew-184963

4.    Beef Barbecue Sandwiches

Here’s a super-easy way to use leftover pot roast. It doesn’t even require any additional cooking. However, if you prefer, you can throw the ingredients into the crock pot for a couple of hours to help the flavors blend before refrigerating, or to heat if you plan to use it right away. Serve with potato chips or French fries and coleslaw.

Find the recipe here: http://www.food.com/recipe/leftover-roast-beef-bar-b-que-sandwich-filling-183356

5.    Stuffed Tomatoes

This recipe works well with any kind of leftover meat, or even with leftover vegetables. With beef, it makes a wonderful side dish or even a light meal on its own. Experiment with different seasonings and types of cheese to create a unique and memorable dish.

Get some ideas with a leftover idea recipe here: http://www.food.com/recipe/leftovers-stuffed-tomatoes-11356

6.    Chili

Although most chili recipes require extended cooking times, there’s no law that says you have to spend all day slaving over a hot stove to get it right. This recipe at http://www.food.com/recipe/quick-homemade-chili-con-carne-with-beans-10203 is quick even if you have to cook the beef, and you can have it done in no time if you crumble up leftover hamburger or cube steak. Just cook the garlic and onion a bit before adding the ground beef. When the chili is done, top it with sour cream and/or shredded cheese and serve with crackers.

7.    Steak Wraps

These are a nice alternative to steak sandwiches, and they can be served hot or cold. You can use this delicious recipe or simply slice up leftover steak, place on a tortilla and add some shredded lettuce, diced tomato, your choice of dressing or sauce and any variety of shredded cheese you have on hand. Pack them in the kids’ lunches for a change of pace or wrap them up and take them with you when you’re on the go.

Here’s a handy recipe on Food.com:

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/grilled-steak-wraps/

8.    Beef Hash

Beef hash can be made in a number of ways. This simple recipe calls for ground beef, onion, potatoes and beef bouillon. To use leftover meat, just chop or crumble and add it after the onions have cooked a bit. You could also add a variety of other ingredients, such as mushrooms, greens, peppers or cheese. Serve with biscuits or rolls.

Try this recipe: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/hamburger-hash/

9.    Shepherd’s Pie

Traditional shepherd’s pie is an English dish made with mutton, but in the United States it’s more often made with beef.

This recipe from Simply Recipes http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/easy_shepherds_pie calls for ground round, for which you can substitute finely chopped or ground steak if that’s what you have on hand. It also makes good use of leftover mashed potatoes and vegetables if you have them. This is another great one-dish meal.

10.  Quesadillas

Cheese quesadillas are popular as appetizers, but add meat and they make a wonderful main dish. Steak is the best choice for this recipe here http://www.food.com/recipe/spicy-steak-quesadilla-319144, but other types of beef should work as well. Add more peppers to turn up the heat, or serve with sour cream to cool it down. Add some refried beans if you like as well.

There’s no need to give perfectly good leftover beef to the dog when you can give it new life with these recipes. Fido may not be happy, but the family will love the variety and your wallet will enjoy the savings.

As always, I want to hear from you. In the comments section below, please share your favorite leftover beef recipes.

That’s all for now. Until next time Divas, wear your heels well and be blessed!

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