Sick of eating the same old BBQ leftovers for days after Memorial Day?
The thought of another sandwich or plate of cold pasta makes you cringe, and you’re left with a fridge full of food that’s slowly losing its appeal.
Tossing leftovers feels like a waste of money and effort, but the idea of another meal of the same thing is equally unappealing.
What if you could breathe new life into those leftovers, turning them into exciting new meals that feel like a fresh start?
These 20 Memorial Day leftover hacks will transform your post-celebration dining into a culinary adventure, proving that leftovers don’t have to be lackluster.
Delicious Memorial Day Food Ideas
Discover recipes perfect for your celebration!
Main Dishes
Other Dishes
- 30 Desserts That Travel Well (Dessert)
- 15 Healthy-ish Sides (Side Dish)
- 25 Kid-Friendly Appetizers (Appetizer)
- 15 Charcuterie Boards (Appetizer)
- 15 Salads (Side Dish)
- 10 Breakfast Ideas (Breakfast)
- Grilled Fruit Desserts (Dessert)
- 25 Drinks (Drink)
- 15 Dips (Appetizer)
- 10 Brunch Ideas (Breakfast/Brunch)
🌯 Brisket Tacos That’ll Make You Forget the Original Meal
Leftover Brisket Gets a Mexican Makeover
Shred leftover brisket and warm it in taco shells. Top with fresh salsa, diced onions, and a dollop of sour cream. The smoky brisket pairs perfectly with the zesty toppings for a meal that feels brand new.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of shredded cabbage for crunch and freshness.
🥛 Pulled Pork Omelets for a Savory Breakfast Surprise
Breakfast Just Got a Major Upgrade
Scramble eggs and mix in pulled pork, cheese, and diced bell peppers. Serve with a side of salsa or hot sauce. The hearty combination transforms breakfast into a satisfying meal that feels special.
Idea: Add a slice of avocado for extra creaminess.
🥗 Grilled Veggie Pasta with a Creamy Twist
Vegetables Get a New Lease on Life
Toss grilled veggies with cooked pasta and a simple Alfredo sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. Add grated Parmesan for extra richness.
Hack: Use a mix of colorful veggies for visual appeal and varied flavors.
🥪 Loaded Baked Potato Sandwiches
Comfort Food Elevated
Slice baked potatoes and layer them on rolls with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits. The combination of textures and flavors makes this sandwich a crowd-pleaser.
Tip: Warm the potatoes slightly before assembling for the best taste.
🌶️ BBQ Chicken Flatbread Pizza
A New Way to Enjoy Chicken Leftovers
Spread BBQ sauce on flatbread and top with shredded chicken, red onions, and cheese. Bake until the cheese melts for a delicious pizza that’s quick to make.
Idea: Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño for a spicy kick.
🥘 Mexican Rice Bowl with a Twist
Leftover Rice Becomes a Flavor Explosion
Combine rice with black beans, corn, and salsa. Top with avocado and a drizzle of lime crema. This bowl is filling and packed with bold Mexican flavors.
Pro Tip: Use a mix of different beans for varied texture.
🍳 Breakfast Fried Rice with a Savory Edge
Leftover Rice Transformed
Stir-fry rice with eggs, onions, and peppers. Add leftover meat for extra protein. Serve with a fried egg on top for a hearty breakfast option.
Hack: Use day-old rice for better texture when stir-frying.
🥙 Hummus and Veggie Pita Pockets
A Fresh and Healthy Option
Stuff pita pockets with hummus, grilled veggies, and sprouts. Add a slice of halloumi for protein. These pockets are perfect for a light lunch.
Idea: Use a variety of colorful veggies for visual appeal.
🍤 Crab Cake Melts with Tartar Sauce
Elevating Leftover Seafood
Combine crab meat with breadcrumbs and form into cakes. Place on rolls with melted cheese and tartar sauce. The result is a delicious sandwich that feels like a indulgence.
Pro Tip: Pan-fry crab cakes until crispy for the best texture.
🥘 Minestrone Soup with a Leftover Twist
A Hearty Way to Use Up Vegetables
Simmer vegetable broth with leftover veggies, beans, and pasta. Add herbs and a splash of olive oil. This soup is comforting and uses up odds and ends perfectly.
Hack: Use a mix of different leftovers for varied flavor.
🌮 Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas
A Simple and Satisfying Snack
Place leftover turkey and cheese between tortillas. Cook on a skillet until the cheese melts. Serve with salsa and sour cream. These quesadillas are quick and delicious.
Idea: Add a few slices of avocado for extra creaminess.
🥗 Cobb Salad with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
A Classic Salad with a New Twist
Toss mixed greens with leftover chicken, bacon, and avocado. Dress with a simple vinaigrette. This salad is nutritious and filling.
Pro Tip: Use a mix of greens for varied texture.
🍪 Dessert Pizza with Cinnamon Sugar and Fruit
A Sweet Ending to Any Meal
Spread cinnamon butter on pizza crust and sprinkle with sugar. Add sliced apples or pears and a drizzle of honey. This dessert pizza is surprisingly simple but incredibly satisfying.
Idea: Add a few chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
🍗 Chicken Caesar Wraps
A Portable and Delicious Option
Combine leftover chicken with Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese. Roll in tortillas and slice into pinwheels. These wraps are perfect for picnics or on-the-go meals.
Pro Tip: Use fresh parsley for extra flavor and color.
🥘 Shepherd’s Pie with a Leftover Twist
Comfort Food Reimagined
Layer leftover meat and veggies with mashed potatoes. Bake until the top is golden and crispy. This pie is hearty and uses up a variety of leftovers.
Hack: Use a mix of different meats and veggies for varied flavor.
🍗 Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
A Flavorful and Healthy Option
Mix buffalo chicken with blue cheese and stuff into bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender. These stuffed peppers are spicy and satisfying.
Idea: Add a sprinkle of green onions for freshness.
🥖 Avocado and Egg Breakfast Toast
A Nutritious and Quick Breakfast
Top toasted bread with mashed avocado and a fried egg. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. This toast is simple but packed with flavor.
Pro Tip: Use whole-grain bread for extra fiber.
🌶️ Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Tacos
A Zesty and Fresh Dinner Option
Warm tortillas and fill with shrimp, avocado, and salsa. Add a drizzle of hot sauce for those who love a kick. These tacos are light and flavorful.
Hack: Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time.
🍥 Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bites
An Elegant and Quick Appetizer
Spread cream cheese on small toasts and top with smoked salmon. Add a sprinkle of dill for freshness. These bites are perfect for entertaining.
Pro Tip: Use everything bagel seasoning on the toasts for extra flavor.
🍷 Wine and Cheese Board with a Leftover Spin
A Relaxing and Fancy Option
Arrange leftover cheese, cured meats, and crackers on a board. Add fresh fruit and nuts for variety. This board is perfect for a quiet evening at home.
Idea: Use a mix of different cheeses for varied flavors.
🎉 Memorial Day leftovers don’t have to mean boring or wasteful meals. These 20 hacks transform your leftovers into exciting new dishes that feel like a fresh start.
Whether you’re turning brisket into tacos or pulled pork into omelets, these ideas will keep your taste buds happy and minimize food waste.
Try 3-4 of these hacks this holiday and watch your leftovers become the highlight of your week! Share your favorite leftover transformation in the comments below and tag us in your photos. Let’s make this Memorial Day both delicious and sustainable!
