Leftovers are a common struggle for anyone who cooks. We tend to cook more than we need, leaving us with extra food that sits in the fridge. In the U.S., food waste is a big issue, so it’s always smart to have a few ideas on hand for using up steak leftovers.
The weekend feast is over, and now and now, you’ve got leftover steak in the fridge. Throwing it out isn’t an option, so what can you do with it? Here’s a list of ten delicious recipes to turn that leftover steak into something new and tasty.
1. Leftover Steak Salad
Leftover steak makes a perfect base for a bright, zesty Thai beef salad. Sliced steak is mixed with fresh herbs, crisp veggies, and a bold dressing full of lime, garlic, and a hint of chili for some heat. This salad brings out the freshness of Thai flavors and balances perfectly with the richness of the beef. It’s light, full of texture, and a great way to give leftover steak a totally new, vibrant twist.
2. Leftover Steak Sandwiches
Turn your leftover steak into a delicious Philly cheesesteak by slicing it thin and tossing it in a skillet with sautéed peppers and onions. The tender beef mixes perfectly with the sweetness of the veggies; all topped with gooey provolone in a warm, toasted hoagie roll. It’s an easy, one-pan recipe that gives your leftover steak a new, satisfying twist.
3. Leftover Steak Stir Fry
Turn leftover steak into a tasty beef and broccoli stir-fry by slicing it thin and tossing it with tender broccoli florets. A quick ginger-soy sauce adds just the right mix of salty and slightly sweet flavors, and a bit of sesame oil can add a nice depth if you like. Serve it all over rice for a simple, satisfying meal ready in no time.
4. Leftover Steak Breakfast
Use leftover steak to make breakfast with eggs and avocado. Gently reheat thin steak strips to keep them tender, then serve with fluffy scrambled eggs and creamy avocado slices. This low-carb, protein-packed meal is a great way to start the day with something filling and nutritious.
5. Leftover Steak Quesadillas
Use leftover steak in flavorful quesadillas by combining bite-sized pieces with melted cheese, sautéed onions, and peppers on a crispy tortilla. It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to enjoy grilled leftover steak again in a whole new way. The seasoned steak, gooey cheese, and lightly crunchy tortilla perfectly balance flavors and textures. Add a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, and you’ve got a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that gives your leftovers a delicious upgrade.
6. Leftover Steak Tacos
Give leftover steak new life in tacos with a fresh chimichurri twist. Thinly sliced steak goes onto warm, toasted tortillas, creating a perfect mix of flavors and textures. Top with a drizzle of zesty chimichurri, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and a sprinkle of feta for brightness in every bite. A squeeze of fresh lime over the top pulls everything together, making for a quick, satisfying meal.
7. Barbecue Pizza With Leftover Steak
Turn your leftover steak into a delicious Barbecue Steak Pizza. Layer thinly sliced steak over homemade BBQ sauce, add roasted red peppers and onions, and place everything on a whole wheat and oat bran crust. Top with a blend of cheeses, and you’ll have a flavorful meal that makes the most of your leftovers. It’s an easy, satisfying way to enjoy steak all over again.
8. Leftover Steak Fajitas
Make flavorful fajitas to give leftover steak new life. Slice the steak thinly and toss it with sautéed bell peppers and onions. Add a dash of fajita seasoning for that classic kick, or splash in a quick bottled marinade to boost the savory flavors even more. Serve the tender steak and veggies on warm tortillas, then top with fresh cilantro, cheese, or guacamole. It’s a quick, delicious Tex-Mex meal that makes the most of your steak leftovers.
9. Stuffed Peppers with Leftover Steak
This Philly Cheese Style Stuffed Peppers recipe is a delicious way to use leftover steak. Tender steak pieces are mixed with a creamy, savory sauce, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions to bring all the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors together in a lighter, low-carb way. Instead of the usual roll, everything is stuffed into baked bell peppers, making a meal that’s big on flavor.
10. Leftover Steak Burrito
Leftover steak is perfect for a chipotle-style burrito filled with cilantro-lime rice, black beans, fresh pico de gallo, and some sour cream. The tender steak, warmed with smoky spices, combines beautifully with the fresh, vibrant flavors, bringing the feel of a restaurant-style burrito to your kitchen.
The Bottom Line
Don’t let leftover steak go to waste. With these ten easy recipes, you can turn it into something delicious and new. Next time you find yourself with leftover steak, try one of these creative ideas and make the most of every bite.
If you want to avoid leftovers in the future, my article “How Much Steak Per Person to Serve” has some handy planning tips.