Stocking up on rice is always a good idea. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and easy to cook. In fact, making a pot of rice is a smart first step in any meal prep. From risotto to paella or as a base for your favourite bowls, the leftover fried rice recipe options are endless. Read on for our tried-and-true favourites that can easily incorporate leftover rice.
Caramelized Onion Risotto
Perfect for weeknight dinner parties, you can use save time by using leftover rice to make this creamy, caramelized onion risotto. Don’t forget to finish the dish with a drizzle of honey.
Hot Dog Fried Rice
Hot dogs are a summer staple, but they aren’t always the most nutrient-filled dinner idea. Use leftover fried rice, eggs, tofu and green beans to turn hotdogs into a veggie- and protein- packed meal that’s super kid-friendly.
Vegetarian Mujadara
This popular Middle Eastern side dish is one of the best ways to elevate leftover basmati rice. Made with lentils, fried onions and a spice mixture of cumin, coriander and turmeric, mujadara is a recipe that’s easy to love.
Seafood and Sausage Paella
Branch away from your usual BBQ recipes and make this seafood sausage paella on the grill this summer. Using leftover rice is the key to making dinner for a crowd that much easier.
Hakka Chicken Fried Rice
Did you know that fried rice recipes often taste better when using day-old rice? Try this trick tonight with this spicy Hakka fried rice!
Japanese Chicken Curry
Few foods go together as perfectly as a bowl of your favourite curry and leftover rice. Try cooking this Japanese chicken curry on Sunday afternoon and enjoying it as a filling work-from-home lunch for the rest of the week.
Sweet and Sour Shrimp and Tofu Bowl
This mouthwatering shrimp and tofu bowl is our go-to recipe for nights when we’re tempted to order takeout. Plus, it’s a versatile enough dish that makes it easy to add veggies you already have in your fridge.
Instant Pot Crispy Rice
Turn to your Instant Pot to transform last night’s leftover rice into a crispy side dish. Just pair it with your favourite easy weeknight main and dinner will be on the table in no time.
Seafood Risotto with Crab and Scallops
Date night at home calls for a special recipe that will impress your sweetie. Save time cooking this seafood risotto by using your leftover rice. And for a special romantic dessert idea, try this chocolate peanut butter cookie skillet.
Creamy Rice Pudding
Yes, leftover rice can be used for desserts, too. Case in point: creamy rice pudding! Make Anna Olson’s version for an easy summertime treat.