Are you tired of reheating last night’s leftovers only to be met with a sad, stale slice of pizza? Think again! We’ve scoured the internet for the most innovative and delicious ways to repurpose leftover pizza, and we’re excited to share our top 18 picks with you. From breakfast casseroles to savory snacks, these creative recipes will breathe new life into your old pizza. Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or adventurous flavor profiles, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So go ahead, get inspired, and start getting creative with those leftover slices!
Leftover Pizza Breakfast Casserole
Transform last night’s pizza into a delicious breakfast treat! This casserole is perfect for using up leftover slices and serving a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 leftover pizza slices (any topping combination)
– 1 cup frozen hash browns, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or red bell peppers for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the thawed hash browns and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Arrange the leftover pizza slices in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the egg-hashing brown mixture over the pizza slices.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions or red bell peppers if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this creative twist: a pizza-inspired sandwich that combines the best of both worlds!
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 tablespoons of marinara sauce
– 2-3 slices of mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Spread marinara sauce on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add mozzarella cheese slices and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and basil leaves.
6. Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pizza Quesadillas with Extra Cheese
Elevate your snack game with these cheesy, pizza-inspired quesadillas that are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– 8 slices pepperoni, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of the mozzarella and 1/4 cup of the cheddar cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese mixture on half of the tortilla.
4. Top with pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, and remaining cheese mixture.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pizza Croutons for Salads or Soups
Elevate your salads or soups with these crispy and flavorful pizza croutons. Made with a blend of mozzarella cheese, Italian seasonings, and crunchy breadcrumbs, they’re perfect for adding texture and a hint of pizza flavor to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, oregano, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Let cool completely before using in salads or soups.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pizza-Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of pizza with the convenience of stuffed peppers, resulting in a delicious and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni or other favorite pizza toppings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni or toppings. Mix well.
5. Stuff each pepper with the pasta mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pizza Frittata with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this innovative pizza-inspired frittata, packed with fresh herbs and a crispy crust. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that’s also visually appealing.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until edges start to set, about 2 minutes.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, parsley, and basil on top of the eggs.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pizza Bread Pudding with Marinara Dip
Transform your favorite pizza night into a sweet treat with this unique bread pudding recipe. Layers of buttery bread, melted mozzarella cheese, and savory marinara sauce create a delightful dessert perfect for pizza lovers.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, sugar, and melted butter. Toss until evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Enjoy your pizza-inspired dessert!
Pizza-Topped Garlic Bread
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make pizza-topped garlic bread that combines the best of both worlds. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Italian-style bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices and place on a baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto each slice of bread.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the bread.
6. Spoon pizza sauce over the cheese.
7. Add your desired toppings.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pizza-Inspired Pasta Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this creative recipe that combines the flavors of pizza and pasta in a satisfying casserole. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– 1 jar pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb. ground beef or sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta, pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and crumbled ground beef or sausage. Toss until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pizza-Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the comfort of pizza, creating a unique and delicious appetizer or snack. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the pizza mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pizza Hash with Fried Eggs
A creative take on breakfast classics, Pizza Hash with Fried Eggs combines the best of both worlds in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover pizza crust, crumbled
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup diced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the crumbled pizza crust, bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the crust is golden brown.
3. Crack in the eggs and scramble them into the hash mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and cook until melted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pizza-Inspired Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into a flavorful and nutritious treat by filling them with a savory pizza-inspired mixture. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni or other pizza toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pizza Panini with Pesto Mayo
Transform your lunch game with this tasty twist on classic paninis. Moist pesto mayo and melted mozzarella cheese bring a creamy, cheesy goodness to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the panini press or grill.
5. Spread half of the pesto mayo mixture on top of the bread.
6. Add sliced pepperoni and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with another bread slice, butter-side up.
8. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Pizza-Topped Nachos with Jalapeños
Elevate your snack game with this unique fusion of pizza and nachos, featuring spicy jalapeño peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– 4-6 sliced jalapeños
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spread pizza sauce over the chips, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sliced pepperoni.
5. Place sliced jalapeños on top of the pepperoni.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people
Pizza-Inspired Savory Muffins
Take your love of pizza to new heights with these savory muffins, packed with the flavors of Italy. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, mozzarella cheese, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, milk, eggs, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pizza-Flavored Rice Casserole
A creative twist on traditional casserole, this pizza-flavored rice dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering. With the combination of cooked rice, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pizza-Inspired Loaded Potato Skins
Take your love of pizza and loaded potato skins to the next level with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the best of both worlds. Crunchy potato skins filled with melted mozzarella, savory tomato sauce, and flavorful pepperoni will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– 8 slices pepperoni
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry with paper towels.
3. Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer.
4. Line each potato skin with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Fill each potato skin with shredded mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, and pepperoni slices.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the filling is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pizza-Inspired Flatbread with Fresh Toppings
Transform plain flatbread into a flavorful pizza-inspired treat with a few simple steps and fresh toppings of your choice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Toppings (choose 2-3): cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, olives, bell peppers, red onion, etc.
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add olive oil and lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal portions, depending on desired flatbread size.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook flatbreads for 30-45 seconds per side, until lightly browned and crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per flatbread
Assembly:
– Spread your chosen toppings evenly across the flatbread.
– Fold the flatbread in half or quarter to enclose the filling.
– Serve immediately and enjoy!
Summary
Get creative with your leftover pizza and turn it into 18 deliciously reinvented dishes! From breakfast to snacks, main courses, and even desserts, this article shows you how to transform last night’s pizza into a variety of tasty treats. Discover recipes like Leftover Pizza Breakfast Casserole, Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Pizza Quesadillas with Extra Cheese, and many more. With these innovative ideas, you’ll never look at leftover pizza the same way again!
