When it comes to cooking, one of the biggest struggles we face is figuring out what to do with leftover ingredients. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family on-the-go, having meals that can be whipped up quickly and easily are essential for a stress-free dinner routine. One of the most common leftovers is steak – but don’t worry, it’s not just going to sit in the fridge until it goes bad! We’ve got 18 savory leftover steak recipes that will take your meal prep game to the next level.
From breakfast tacos to loaded nachos, and from salads to pasta dishes, these ideas will show you that with a little creativity, even the most mundane leftovers can be transformed into something delicious. So, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, keep reading to discover our top 18 leftover steak recipes.
Steak and Egg Breakfast Tacos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast tacos. This recipe combines tender steak, scrambled eggs, and crispy tortillas for a filling and delicious morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
2. While the steak is cooking, scramble the eggs in a separate bowl. Add diced onion and jalapeño, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Slice the cooked steak into thin strips and add it to the scrambled eggs. Assemble the tacos by placing the egg mixture onto a warmed tortilla, then top with shredded cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Summary: This twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich stuffs bell peppers with tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, followed by shredded cheese and a dollop of cream cheese.
6. Sprinkle paprika on top of each pepper.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Steak Fried Rice
Transform leftover steak into a flavorful and filling meal with this easy recipe for Leftover Steak Fried Rice. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced leftover steak
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice with the onion and garlic mixture for about 5 minutes, until well combined.
6. Add the diced steak and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steak and Blue Cheese Salad
A classic combination of grilled steak, tangy blue cheese, and crisp greens makes for a satisfying salad perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper.
2. Grill steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
3. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, blue cheese crumbles, and chopped nuts.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Slice grilled steak and place on top of the salad. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time:
– Grilling time: 10-12 minutes
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Total time: 25-27 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Steak
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender steak, crisp broccoli, and savory beef for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the steak according to your desired level of doneness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the broccoli, beef strips, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Add the sliced steak to the stir-fry and cook for an additional minute, ensuring everything is well coated with the savory mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steak Quesadillas with Caramelized Onions
Satisfy your cravings with these tender steak quesadillas filled with caramelized onions and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. In a separate pan, cook the steak strips over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Let cool.
3. In a large skillet or griddle, place a tortilla and sprinkle shredded cheese on half of it. Add a few slices of cooled steak and some caramelized onions.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Loaded Steak Nachos
Get ready for a game-day favorite that’s sure to score big with friends and family! These loaded steak nachos are the perfect combination of tender steak, gooey cheese, and crispy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 8-10 corn tortillas, cut into triangles
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Salsa and sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Add flank steak; marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Remove steak from marinade; cook to desired doneness (medium-rare recommended).
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet; top with shredded cheese, black beans, red bell pepper, and jalapeño.
5. Slice cooked steak into thin strips; place on top of nachos.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately with salsa and sour cream (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steak and Mushroom Pasta
Savor the flavors of tender steak, earthy mushrooms, and al dente pasta in this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. Season steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Transfer to oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
5. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
6. Combine cooked pasta, steak slices, and mushroom mixture. Toss with a fork to coat.
Cooking Time:
– Steak: 10-12 minutes total
– Mushrooms: 5 minutes
– Pasta: 8-10 minutes
Steak and Potato Hash
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines tender steak with crispy potatoes and caramelized onions. Perfect for a special occasion or weekend morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add potato mixture and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, grill steak strips to desired level of doneness (about 3-5 minutes per side).
5. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and caramelize onions over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve steak atop potato hash, topped with caramelized onions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes total.
Thai Basil Steak Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the boldness of grilled steak with the bright, citrusy notes of Thai basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, Thai basil leaves, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
4. Slice grilled steak into thin strips.
5. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steak and Cheese Stuffed Baked Potatoes
A twist on traditional baked potatoes, this recipe combines the savory flavors of steak and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 lb top round or ribeye steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, cook the steak strips in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
6. Stuff each potato with sliced steak, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.
7. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes
Steak and Avocado Wrap
Savor the flavors of grilled steak, creamy avocado, and fresh cilantro wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This easy-to-make wrap is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 flank steak
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. Meanwhile, slice avocados into thin wedges.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice and olive oil.
5. Warm tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble wrap by placing sliced steak, avocado, and cilantro on the tortilla. Drizzle with lime-olive oil mixture.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Beef Stroganoff with Leftover Steak
Turn yesterday’s leftover steak into a flavorful and comforting dinner with this simple recipe. This classic dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked steak (sliced into thin strips)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add flour; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add beef broth, heavy cream, and mustard. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add sliced steak and mushrooms. Cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Steak and Egg Breakfast Burrito
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast burrito featuring tender steak, fluffy eggs, and crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
3. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with a spatula.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the burritos by placing some scrambled eggs, cooked steak, and shredded cheese onto each tortilla.
8. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the burrito into a tight cylinder.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steak and Spinach Panini
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Steak and Spinach Panini recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb steak (such as flank steak or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted.
5. Butter one side of each bread slice.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled steak, wilted spinach mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using) on one buttered bread slice. Top with another bread slice.
7. Grill paninis in a grill or panini press for 2-3 minutes, until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean BBQ Steak Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Korean BBQ and the convenience of tacos with this unique recipe. Marinated steak, crispy kimchi slaw, and creamy cilantro lime sauce come together to create a truly addictive dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Kimchi slaw (see note)
– Cilantro lime sauce (see note)
– Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the steak in a mixture of Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Grill the steak to desired doneness, then slice it thinly against the grain.
3. Assemble the tacos by placing sliced steak onto tortillas, topping with kimchi slaw, cilantro lime sauce, and garnishing with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including marinating time)
Note: Kimchi slaw recipe: Mix 1/2 cup kimchi with 1/4 cup mayonnaise and 1 tsp soy sauce. Cilantro lime sauce recipe: Blend 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup cilantro, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tsp honey.
Steak and Sweet Potato Bowl
A hearty and flavorful bowl that combines the richness of grilled steak with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
3. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, and honey to create the sauce.
5. Assemble bowls by slicing grilled steak and placing it atop roasted sweet potatoes. Drizzle with the sauce and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Leftover Steak Chili
Transform last night’s leftover steak into a hearty and flavorful chili that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe is a great way to repurpose leftover steak, adding some extra vegetables and spices to create a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked steak (thinly sliced)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the bell pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the leftover steak; stir to distribute evenly.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with leftover steak and transform it into 18 delicious recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From breakfast to dinner, these savory dishes will help you reduce food waste and save time in the kitchen. Discover unique twists on classic favorites like Philly cheesesteak stuffed peppers and beef stroganoff, or try new combinations like loaded steak nachos and Thai basil steak salad. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired flavors or comfort food classics, there’s something for everyone in this collection of leftover steak recipes.
