Leftover pork meatballs? Or beef? Chicken? Honestly, they’re a goldmine. You’ve already done the hard work—now it’s just about putting them to good use.
Whether you’ve got 3 or 13 sitting in the fridge, these 10 fast, flavorful ideas will breathe new life into last night’s dinner.
Let’s get straight to it—because nobody wants boring leftovers.
Leftover Meatball Recipe Ideas
If you’ve got baked or pan-fried meatballs without sauce, one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to use them is with a hot honey glaze.
Serve them with just about anything! And don’t miss #11—that one’s a close second favorite.
Want to Save This Recipe?
Enter your email and we’ll send the recipe directly to you!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from The Yummy Bowl.
1. Meatball Lettuce Wraps or Sandwich
Quick, light, and surprisingly satisfying. Just slice the meatballs, toss them in a bit of hoisin or teriyaki sauce, and spoon them into lettuce leaves. Add shredded carrots, cucumbers, and green onions for crunch.
2. Pork Meatball Rice Bowl
Think of it like a DIY takeout bowl—but cheaper and healthier. Warm up some brown rice or quinoa, top with chopped meatballs, steamed veggies, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo or tahini sauce.
Or make a Mediterranean style dinner similar to my Greek bowls.
3. Meatball Stir Fry
This one’s fast. Chop your meatballs into chunks and toss them into a hot pan with broccoli, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Add a splash of soy sauce and you’ve got a full meal in under 15 minutes.
4. Leftover Meatball Tacos
Trust me, this works. Warm corn tortillas, shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and crumbled pork meatballs with a bit of chipotle sauce = taco night 2.0.
5. Meatball and Veggie Soup
Got just a few meatballs left? Chop and simmer them in broth with diced tomatoes, spinach, and zucchini for a quick soup that feels homemade and cozy.
Try this meatball soup.
6. Banh Mi Inspired Sandwich
Slice the meatballs thin, toast a baguette, and add pickled carrots, cucumbers, cilantro, and a smear of spicy mayo. So much flavor and perfect for lunch.
7. Pork Meatball Fried Rice
Leftover rice? Even better. Chop up those meatballs and stir-fry with rice, frozen peas, scrambled egg, and soy sauce. Dinner in a pan.
Get inspired by my Ground Pork Stir Fry!
8. Meatball Pasta Toss
Skip the marinara. Instead, go for a light olive oil, garlic, and lemon combo with cooked pasta and sliced pork meatballs. Add some spinach or arugula for freshness.
Or bake a meatball casserole instead.
9. Thai-Inspired Noodle Salad
Cold rice noodles, chopped pork meatballs, shredded veggies, and a tangy lime-peanut dressing. Sweet, salty, spicy, and super satisfying.
10. Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Bake a couple sweet potatoes, scoop them open, and stuff with warm chopped meatballs, black beans, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or guac. Balanced, hearty, and great for dinner.
11. Bonus
One of my go-to ways to use up leftover meatballs (especially when I need a quick meal) is to chop them up and toss them into an omelet or frittata.
I’ve made it more times than I can count, and the kids always gobble it up!
A Few Tips for Reheating:
- Microwave with a splash of water to keep meatballs from drying out.
- Pan-fry for a crispy outside.
- Or slice before reheating to cut down on cook time and help them heat evenly.
Final Thoughts
Leftover pork meatballs don’t have to be boring. With these 10 tasty ideas, you can stretch one dinner into two (or even three) without it feeling like leftovers. I always say—cook once, eat smart.
Looking for more simple dinner ideas? Check out my air fryer meatballs or the Chinese fried rice—both are easy, family-friendly, and use what’s already in your fridge.
Let me know in the comments—what’s your favorite way to use leftover meatballs?
Did you like this article?
Please leave a comment and share it on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest!
Comments
No Comments