Leftover steak can often feel like a challenge to repurpose, yet it holds so much potential for delicious meals. When you find yourself with extra steak, there are numerous ways to transform it into something new and exciting.
Discover how you can easily elevate your everyday meals with these 25 leftover steak recipes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a delectable dinner, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
1) Steak Tacos
Steak tacos are a quick and delicious way to use leftover steak. Start by heating a skillet with some oil on high heat.
Add the steak and cook for a minute or two to warm it up. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the steak for extra flavor. Serve the steak in warm tortillas.
Top your tacos with shredded lettuce, cheese, and your favorite toppings like pico de gallo, salsa, or sour cream.
For a different twist, cook some onions and zucchini in the pan before adding the steak. This adds a bit more texture and flavor to your tacos.
Don’t forget to add seasonings like garlic salt, cumin, and pepper to spice things up. A good sauce can elevate your tacos too.
Try a creamy tomatillo salsa, spicy chipotle sauce, or tangy mango habanero sauce for an extra kick. Enjoy!
2) Steak and Eggs Breakfast
Start your day with a hearty steak and eggs breakfast. Slice your leftover steak into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully crack two or more eggs into the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper.
Allow the eggs to cook until the whites are set. At this point, you can flip them if you prefer over-easy or leave them sunny-side up.
In a separate skillet, add your chopped steak pieces and heat them until they are warmed through. This should only take a couple of minutes.
To serve, plate the eggs and top them with the warmed steak pieces. You can add a side of toast or some crispy bacon for extra flavor.
Feel free to customize your steak and eggs breakfast by adding some sautéed veggies like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for a more balanced meal. Another option is to sprinkle some cheese over the eggs for a cheesy twist.
3) Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
Use your leftover steak to make a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. Start by slicing onions, bell peppers, and your leftover steak into thin strips.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with some olive oil. Add the onions and bell peppers, cooking until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the steak slices. Heat the steak through for about two minutes.
Mix the steak with the cooked veggies. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Take a hoagie roll and slather some mayo on both sides. Load it up with the steak and veggie mixture.
You can top it with cheese sauce or lay a slice of provolone cheese on top. If you choose provolone, place the sandwich in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich!
4) Steak Salad with Blue Cheese
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness.
Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. You can also add diced avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
Crumble blue cheese over the salad. The sharp, tangy flavor of the blue cheese complements the savory steak perfectly.
Prepare a basil balsamic dressing if you like. Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, and chopped fresh basil. Drizzle it over the salad.
Toss everything together gently to combine. Lay the slices of steak on top of the salad. If you prefer, you can serve the steak strips on the side.
This salad is a great way to use up leftover steak and turn it into a delicious meal. Enjoy the mix of flavors and textures, from juicy steak to crunchy veggies and creamy blue cheese.
5) Steak and Mushroom Pasta
Steak and mushroom pasta is a tasty and simple dish that makes great use of leftover steak. You can quickly whip this up for a comforting meal.
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little vegetable oil.
Pat the steak dry and season it with salt and pepper. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. Add the steak pieces to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown.
Next, slice some fresh mushrooms and add them to the skillet. Cook the mushrooms and steak together until the mushrooms are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
If you like, you can add garlic and onion to the mix for extra flavor. Stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup and a splash of milk to make a creamy sauce.
Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet. Mix everything well so the sauce coats the pasta evenly. You can top the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner using ingredients you likely have on hand.
6) Steak Fried Rice
Steak fried rice is a fantastic way to use up your leftover steak. It’s quick and easy to make, and it’s packed with flavor.
Begin by cutting your leftover steak into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped scallions and sauté for a minute.
Toss in some diced onions and cook for another minute. Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet, creating an empty space in the center. Crack in a couple of eggs and scramble them until they are just set. Mix the scrambled eggs with the vegetables.
Add cold, cooked rice to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for a couple of minutes, letting the rice get a little crispy. Finally, add your sliced steak pieces and some frozen peas. Stir well and heat everything through.
For an extra kick, you can splash in some soy sauce or oyster sauce. This steak fried rice is a delicious, satisfying meal that makes the best use of your leftovers.
7) Steak and Potato Hash
Steak and Potato Hash is a delicious, hearty way to use leftover steak. It’s a simple dish that turns leftovers into a satisfying meal.
Start by chopping your leftover steak and cooked potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. The key is to have all ingredients ready before you heat your skillet.
Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking them until they are tender.
Add your steak and potatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Press everything down firmly with your spatula and turn up the heat slightly to get a crispy crust on the bottom.
Stir occasionally, but let the hash develop a nice crust before flipping. This will enhance the flavors and texture.
Serve your steak and potato hash hot, and enjoy the comfort of this classic dish.
8) Steak Quesadillas
Steak quesadillas are a delicious and easy way to use leftover steak. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla on the skillet and sprinkle it with shredded cheese.
Next, add sliced steak and any vegetables you like. Common choices include sautéed onions and bell peppers. Fold the tortilla in half over the filling ingredients.
Cook the quesadilla until the first side is golden brown. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Flip the quesadilla and cook the other side until brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Press down on the quesadilla with a spatula to help it cook evenly. Once it’s cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it cool slightly before cutting it into wedges. Enjoy your steak quesadilla with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
9) Steak Nachos
Steak nachos are a tasty way to enjoy your leftover steak. They are simple to make and perfect for a quick snack or party dish.
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. Spread out a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet or a cast iron skillet.
Next, slice your leftover steak into thin pieces and distribute them evenly over the tortilla chips. This helps ensure that each bite has a bit of meat.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chips and steak. Monterey Jack cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the steak.
For extra flavor, you can also add black beans, diced tomatoes, and jalapeños. These ingredients add texture and a bit of spice.
Bake the nachos in the oven until the cheese melts completely and the edges of the chips are crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Once they are done, serve the nachos immediately, hot from the oven. Top with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa if you like. Enjoy your delicious steak nachos!
10) Steak Burritos
Steak burritos are a delicious way to use leftover steak. The flavors blend well, making them a hit for any meal.
To start, slice your leftover steak into thin strips. This ensures every bite is full of flavor.
Next, prepare the other ingredients. Common additions include bell peppers, onions, rice, and cheese. You can heat the vegetables in a microwave or on a stovetop.
Warm the tortillas in a microwave for 10-20 seconds or in a skillet over medium heat. This makes them easier to fold.
Layer the steak and other ingredients in the center of the tortilla. Be sure to not overfill, so you can fold it properly.
Fold the bottom of the tortilla up, then roll from one side to the other, keeping all the fillings inside.
You can serve the burritos immediately or wrap them tightly and refrigerate for later. Burritos can be stored for up to two days in the fridge.
Enjoy your steak burritos with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce.
Steak burritos are versatile, allowing you to get creative with the fillings.
11) Steak Chili
Steak chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that transforms your leftover steak into a comforting bowl of goodness. It combines tender steak with beans, tomatoes, and spices to create a rich, savory meal.
First, cut your leftover steak into bite-sized pieces. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then brown it in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Next, add diced onions, garlic, and jalapeños to the pot and cook until fragrant. Then, stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef bone broth. You can also add a bit of honey for a touch of sweetness.
To give your chili a deeper flavor, let it simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together.
In the final steps, add kidney beans or black beans and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Your steak chili is ready to serve. It pairs well with cornbread or a side of rice. Enjoy this robust dish anytime you crave something warm and filling.
12) Steak Fajitas
Steak fajitas are a great way to use leftover steak. To begin, thinly slice your leftover steak and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Cook until they start to soften, usually about 5-10 minutes.
Once the vegetables are ready, push them to one side of the skillet. Add the sliced steak to the other side.
Season everything with your favorite spices. Common choices include cumin, salt, and pepper. You can also add minced garlic for extra flavor.
Mix the steak with the vegetables. Cook for a few minutes, just until the steak is warmed through. If you like a bit more flavor, add a splash of lime juice at this point.
Warm your tortillas in a separate skillet over medium-low heat. Serve the steak and vegetable mixture in the warm tortillas.
Top with your favorite fajita toppings, like salsa, avocado, or shredded cheese. Enjoy your homemade steak fajitas!
13) Steak and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Steak and broccoli stir-fry is a simple and delicious way to use your leftover steak. This dish comes together quickly and is packed with flavor.
Start by slicing your leftover steak into thin strips. In a large bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 2 tablespoons of water, and a bit of garlic powder. Toss the steak in this mixture until well coated.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and stir-fry for about 1 minute, or until it’s heated through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add your broccoli florets and cook for about 3 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still crisp. You might need to add a splash of water to help the broccoli cook.
Return the beef to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for another minute to let the flavors mix. Serve your beef and broccoli stir-fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your tasty and easy dinner!
14) Steak and Spinach Wrap
A Steak and Spinach Wrap is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy your leftover steak.
You will need a tortilla, leftover steak, fresh spinach, and any additional veggies you like.
Start by warming the tortilla slightly so it’s easier to fold.
Slice your leftover steak thinly.
Lay the tortilla flat and spread a generous handful of spinach over it.
Add the steak slices on top of the spinach.
Consider adding extras like bell peppers, tomatoes, or onions.
Drizzle your favorite dressing or sauce over the filling for added flavor.
Gently roll the tortilla, folding in the sides as you go.
Cut the wrap in half and serve immediately.
You can pair your wrap with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal.
Steak and Spinach Wraps are perfect for quick lunches or light dinners.
15) Steak and Avocado Toast
Steak and avocado toast is a simple yet delicious way to use up leftover steak.
Start by mashing ripe avocados with a fork, seasoning them with salt and pepper. You can also add a bit of lime juice for some extra zest. Spread the avocado mixture on toasted slices of your favorite bread.
For the steak, slice it thinly, cutting against the grain. This helps to ensure the steak is tender and easy to chew.
Add the steak slices on top of the avocado-covered toast. The rich, creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the savory steak.
If you want to take it up a notch, you can add toppings like a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. These extra touches can elevate the flavors even more.
This dish is great for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner. It’s quick to prepare and definitely satisfying.
16) Steak Soup
Steak soup is a hearty dish that’s perfect for using up leftover steak.
Start by slicing your steak into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot, sauté onions, mushrooms, and celery until they are soft.
Add beef stock, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Turn up the heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Add carrots, potatoes, and the sliced steak. Let the soup cook for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Serve the soup hot, and garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
This soup makes a satisfying meal and is a great way to enjoy your leftover steak.
17) Steak Pizza
Steak pizza is a delicious way to use up leftover steak. Begin with a pre-made pizza dough or crust. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough.
Next, slice your leftover steak into thin strips. Distribute the steak evenly over the sauce. Add sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms for extra flavor.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top. You can also add a little parmesan for a more robust taste.
Bake your pizza in a preheated oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once it’s done, let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your steak pizza hot and fresh!
18) Steak Enchiladas
Steak enchiladas are a great way to use up your leftover steak. They are easy to prepare and delicious.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Use a skillet to sauté onions until they are soft. Then, add your chopped leftover steak and taco seasoning. Mix in some rinsed black beans and corn kernels.
Warm up some enchilada sauce and spread a thin layer on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each tortilla with the steak mixture and a bit of shredded cheese. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in the dish.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle more cheese. Bake the enchiladas for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve your enchiladas with sour cream, guacamole, or a side of rice. This dish is comforting and a great way to use up leftovers. Enjoy!
19) Steak Lettuce Wraps
Steak lettuce wraps are a tasty way to use up leftover steak. The crunchy lettuce and flavorful steak make a great combination. You can prepare these wraps quickly and easily.
Start by slicing your leftover steak into thin strips. You’ll need lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce. These types of lettuce are strong enough to hold the fillings.
For the dressing, mix together rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sambal oelek, tamari or soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, and mashed garlic. This sauce adds a tangy and spicy flavor to your wraps.
Now, assemble the wraps. Lay out a lettuce leaf and add the steak strips. Next, add vegetables like radishes, carrots, and green onions. You can slice the veggies into matchsticks or thin strips.
Drizzle the dressing over the top. For a bit of extra crunch, you can add slivered almonds. If you like your wraps with a little sweetness, a mix of honey and mustard works well.
Serve the wraps fresh for a delicious and light meal. These steak lettuce wraps are perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Enjoy your meal!
20) Steak Bruschetta
Steak bruschetta is a tasty and easy way to use leftover steak. To start, grill slices of bread until they are golden brown on each side. This will give them a nice crunch.
Next, slice your leftover steak into thin strips. Arrange these slices on top of the grilled bread. You can add a touch of garlic or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Tomatoes marinated in olive oil, salt, and pepper are a great addition. Spread them evenly over the steak. If you like cheese, sprinkle some shredded Gruyere or Parmesan on top.
For a different twist, try using a French Onion Marmalade on the bread before adding the steak. This adds a sweet and savory layer to your bruschetta.
Serve your steak bruschetta as an appetizer at parties or as a quick lunch. It’s a simple and delicious way to enjoy your leftover steak.
21) Steak Stuffed Peppers
Turn your leftover steak into a tasty dish with steak stuffed peppers. This is a simple and flavorful way to use up what you have in the fridge.
Start by preheating your oven to 325ºF. Cut the tops off of bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Place the peppers upright in a baking dish. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper inside each one. Bake for about 15-30 minutes until they are tender.
While the peppers are baking, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions, mushrooms, and any other veggies you like. Cook until tender.
Add your sliced leftover steak to the skillet. Season with garlic salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Cook until the steak is warmed through.
Once the peppers are done, stuff them with the steak and veggie mixture. You can top them with cheese if you like.
Put the stuffed peppers back in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts and everything is heated through. Enjoy a flavorful and easy meal that makes great use of your leftovers.
22) Steak and Cheese Omelette
A steak and cheese omelette is a tasty way to use leftover steak. First, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
While the vegetables cook, whisk your eggs in a bowl. Pour the egg mixture into a greased skillet. As the bottom starts to set, add your vegetables and leftover steak.
Next, sprinkle shredded cheese, like Cheddar or Swiss, over the filling. Fold the omelette in half and continue to cook until the cheese melts. This dish pairs well with a side of hash browns or toast.
Enjoy your steak and cheese omelette for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
23) Steak Breakfast Burrito
A Steak Breakfast Burrito is a tasty way to use up leftover steak. Start by reheating your steak in a pan until warm. Dice it into small pieces once heated through.
Next, scramble some eggs in a separate pan. Cook until just set. Add the steak pieces to the eggs. Stir gently to combine.
Place a tortilla flat on a surface. Spread the steak and egg mixture evenly over the tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Optional ingredients include cooked potatoes, onions, or peppers. Adding these gives your burrito more flavor and texture.
Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling. Roll it up tightly from the bottom. Heat a little oil in a pan and brown the burrito on all sides.
Serve your Steak Breakfast Burrito with salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
24) Steak Tostadas
Steak tostadas are a tasty and creative way to use your leftover steak. Start by slicing your steak thinly. This helps the flavors soak in better.
Grab some tostada shells, which you can buy or make at home. Spread a layer of refried beans on each tostada shell.
Next, top the tostadas with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and black beans. Add some thinly sliced onions and corn for extra crunch and flavor.
Place the steak slices on top of your veggies. Drizzle with a creamy dressing. You can use a simple mix of sour cream, lime juice, and cilantro.
Serve your steak tostadas with your favorite garnishes. A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of guacamole adds a nice touch. Enjoy your meal!
25) Steak Cassoulet
Steak Cassoulet is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for using up leftover steak. You will need white beans, carrots, onions, garlic, and tomatoes to create the base of the cassoulet.
Start by sautéing chopped onions, carrots, and garlic in a large pot until they soften. Then, add canned tomatoes and white beans. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves.
Slice your leftover steak into bite-sized pieces. Add the steak to the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Serve the cassoulet hot. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for dinner. This recipe makes great use of your leftover steak and turns it into a delicious new dish. Enjoy it with some crusty bread.
Tips for Storing Leftover Steak
Properly storing leftover steak ensures it stays fresh and safe to eat. Key methods include refrigeration, freezing, and proper reheating to maintain the flavor and texture.
Proper Refrigeration Methods
When refrigerating leftover steak, always put it in an airtight container or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps the steak from drying out and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
It’s crucial to store the steak within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. Make sure your refrigerator is set to 40°F or lower. Consuming the refrigerated steak within 3-4 days is ideal for the best taste and quality.
Best Practices for Freezing
For longer storage, freezing leftover steak is a good option. First, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. This double wrapping prevents freezer burn. You can also use a vacuum sealer if you have one, which is even better for preventing air from reaching the steak.
Label the package with the date so you know how long it has been frozen. The steak maintains its best quality for 2-3 months in the freezer, although it remains safe beyond this period.
How to Reheat Leftover Steak
Reheating steak the right way helps it stay moist and flavorful. If using an oven, preheat it to 250°F. Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet and heat for about 20-30 minutes, depending on thickness. This method heats the steak evenly.
For quicker results, you can use a microwave, but be cautious to avoid overcooking. Place the steak in a microwave-safe dish with a damp paper towel over it, and heat at medium power in short intervals, checking frequently.
Using these tips, you can enjoy your leftover steak with the same delicious taste as the first time you cooked it.
Nutritional Benefits of Leftover Steak
Leftover steak remains packed with nutrients. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein and contains several essential vitamins and minerals.
High-Quality Protein Source
Steak is rich in protein, making it a fantastic food item for muscle repair and growth. A single 3-ounce serving of cooked steak provides about 22 grams of protein. This protein includes all the essential amino acids that your body needs.
Protein also plays a role in maintaining your skin, hair, and nails. It helps produce enzymes and hormones, crucial for countless bodily functions. If you are staying active, leftover steak can be an ideal choice to meet your protein needs.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Steak offers an array of important vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in B vitamins, like B12 and B6. Vitamin B12 is vital for brain health and red blood cell production.
You also get iron from steak, which helps transport oxygen in your blood. Zinc, another mineral found in steak, supports immune function. Phosphorus works on bone health and energy production.
Including leftover steak in your meals can help boost your intake of these key nutrients, which support various bodily functions and overall health.
Creative Uses for Leftover Steak
Leftover steak can be turned into amazing meals with just a little creativity. Here are some great ways you can use that extra steak to make breakfast, salads, and sandwiches delicious.
Incorporating into Breakfast Dishes
Steak is a fantastic addition to many breakfast recipes. Steak and eggs is a classic combination that never fails. Simply slice the steak thin and serve it with scrambled or fried eggs. For a heartier meal, you can add diced steak to a breakfast burrito or tortilla wrap, along with some scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa.
Another tasty idea is making steak omelets. Fill your omelet with pieces of steak, bell peppers, onions, and cheese for a filling start to your day. Finally, consider using steak in a hash. Combine chopped steak with potatoes, onions, and bell peppers, then fry it all until crispy. These dishes not only make your mornings better but also help reduce food waste.
Adding to Salads and Sandwiches
Steak adds protein and flavor to salads and sandwiches. For salads, consider making a steak Cobb salad. Layer mixed greens with sliced steak, avocado, tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and blue cheese. Drizzle with your favorite dressing. A steak Caesar salad is another excellent choice. Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and sliced steak.
For sandwiches, steak sandwiches are a quick and tasty option. Use leftover steak slices with some fresh vegetables, like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Add some garlic aioli or horseradish sauce for an extra kick. Open-faced steak sandwiches use a slice of bread as a base and pile on steak, cheese, and maybe some sautéed onions or mushrooms. These easy recipes turn leftovers into a gourmet meal.
