It’s easy to end up with leftover steak, especially after a big weekend cook. Leftovers don’t have to go to waste, and steak is one of the easiest meats to turn into a fresh meal with almost no effort. Below is a list of ten leftover steak recipes that I return to again and again. They’re simple, practical, and a great way to make sure nothing goes to waste.
1. Leftover Steak Sandwiches
Leftover steak sandwiches are one of the easiest ways to turn yesterday’s steak into a satisfying meal. There are countless variations (different breads, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces), so you can keep things simple or get a little fancy. Some recipes take just 10–15 minutes, while others, such as steak sandwiches with caramelized onions, take a bit longer, but the extra time pays off with even deeper flavor. It’s a simple, versatile, and reliable way to turn leftover steak into something completely new.
2. Leftover Steak Tacos
Tacos are one of the easiest ways to turn leftover steak into something fresh and full of flavor. They’re especially great with hanger, bavette (flap), skirt, or flank steak leftovers. You can build them with whatever ingredients you have on hand. Just slice the steak thin, warm a few tortillas, and add your favorite salsa, diced onions, greens, and a squeeze of lime. For a little extra texture, you can cut the steak into small pieces
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
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.