The eternal question: what to do with leftover spaghetti? It’s a conundrum that has plagued home cooks for generations. But fear not, dear reader! We’ve got the solution right here. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 creative ways to repurpose leftover spaghetti into new and delicious dishes.
From savory breakfast options to sweet treats, we’ll be diving into a world of possibilities. Say goodbye to plain old reheated noodles and hello to Spaghetti Frittata with Parmesan, Leftover Spaghetti Stir Fry with Vegetables, and so many more mouthwatering ideas. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a show-stopping main course, we’ve got you covered.
Spaghetti Frittata with Parmesan
This Italian-inspired recipe combines the comfort of spaghetti and eggs with the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this Spaghetti Frittata is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
4. Add cooked spaghetti, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to the egg mixture. Toss gently to combine.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish or skillet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Spaghetti Stir Fry with Vegetables
Revamp your leftover spaghetti into a delicious and nutritious stir-fry with the addition of colorful vegetables. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for using up any remaining pasta and veggies in your fridge.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the bell pepper and mixed vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the leftover spaghetti to the skillet; stir-fry for about 2 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or oyster sauce (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Spaghetti and Egg Scramble
A twist on traditional scrambled eggs, this recipe combines cooked spaghetti with fluffy eggs, garlic, and mozzarella cheese for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, scramble 3 of the eggs over medium heat until almost set. Add minced garlic and stir to combine.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the eggs and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the remaining egg and cook until just set.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let melt for 30 seconds.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Pancakes with Garlic Butter
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this unique fusion of spaghetti and pancakes, topped with rich garlic butter. This sweet and savory treat is sure to delight both kids and adults!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti
– 1 cup pancake mix
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, pancake mix, eggs, milk, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Drop the mixture by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. While pancakes are cooking, melt garlic butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic in a small bowl.
7. Serve spaghetti pancakes hot with garlic butter drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total.
Spaghetti Carbonara Reinvented
Elevate this Italian classic with a rich and creamy sauce, featuring parmesan cheese, eggs, and crispy pancetta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Stir in cooked pancetta or bacon and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Stuffed Peppers
A colorful twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of spaghetti and peppers for a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stuff each pepper with cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spaghetti and Cheese Bake
This classic comfort food recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the creaminess of melted cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add marinara sauce and stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce in a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Omelette with Herbs
Elevate your breakfast game with this creative take on the classic omelette, featuring spaghetti and fresh herbs. This recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the flavors of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup cooked spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Beat eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in beaten eggs and stir gently to distribute the onion mixture.
6. Cook until eggs start to set, then add cooked spaghetti and sprinkle with parsley.
7. Fold the omelette in half and cook for another minute.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti Soup with Tomato Broth
This hearty soup is a twist on traditional pasta dishes, blending the comfort of spaghetti with the rich flavor of tomato broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Stir Parmesan cheese into the soup. Add cooked spaghetti and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti Fritters with Marinara Dip
A twist on traditional Italian fare, these crispy fritters are packed with spaghetti and served with a tangy marinara dip for a snack or appetizer that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Marinara Dip (recipe below)
– Flour, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, mozzarella cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
3. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the spaghetti mixture into the oil.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Dust with flour and serve hot with Marinara Dip.
Marinara Dip:
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir well. Serve warm alongside the Spaghetti Fritters.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Pizza Crust
Elevate your pizza game with this creative twist on traditional crusts. This Spaghetti Pizza Crust is a fun and flavorful way to get your pasta fix while still enjoying the classic combination of pizza toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 2-3 minutes until smooth and pliable.
5. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness, about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
6. Top with your favorite pizza toppings and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Hash Browns with Onions
This recipe combines the simplicity of hash browns with the heartiness of spaghetti and onions, creating a unique and satisfying dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, diced onion, and cooked spaghetti.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti Tacos with Avocado Salsa
A creative twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the comfort of spaghetti with the crunch and freshness of a taco shell and avocado salsa. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to mix things up!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 ground beef or ground turkey, cooked and crumbled (optional)
– 8-10 taco shells
– Avocado Salsa (recipe below)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add cooked ground beef or turkey (if using); stir to combine.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked spaghetti in the shell, topping with meat mixture (if using), and finishing with Avocado Salsa and shredded mozzarella cheese (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Casserole with Ground Beef
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, tomato sauce mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
7. Transfer the casserole mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Drizzle olive oil over the top and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spaghetti Muffins with Mozzarella
These savory muffins combine the flavors of spaghetti and mozzarella cheese for a unique snack or appetizer. Perfect for pasta lovers and those looking to mix things up!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti, cooled
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, flour, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and egg. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Drizzle olive oil on top of each muffin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Salad with Italian Dressing
A classic and refreshing salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This spaghetti salad is easy to make and combines the flavors of Italy with a zesty dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cooked spaghetti
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Italian dressing
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olives.
3. Crumbling the feta cheese over the top of the salad.
4. Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spaghetti Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
A quick and flavorful twist on traditional spaghetti, this recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the savory flavors of soy sauce and stir-frying.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce; add cooked spaghetti and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Filling
This spaghetti pie recipe combines the comfort of a classic spaghetti dish with the creaminess of ricotta cheese, all wrapped up in a deliciously flaky crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg in a bowl. Mix well.
5. Pour mixture into pie crust and smooth out.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is heated through.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover spaghetti! In this article, we share 18 tasty and innovative recipes to breathe new life into that leftover pasta. From breakfast options like Spaghetti Frittata with Parmesan and Spaghetti Omelette with Herbs, to savory dishes such as Leftover Spaghetti Stir Fry with Vegetables and Spaghetti Carbonara Reinvented, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find sweet treats like Spaghetti Pancakes with Garlic Butter and Spaghetti Muffins with Mozzarella. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
