Are you tired of throwing away leftover brown rice or letting it collect dust in your pantry? Think again! With a little creativity, that humble grain can become the star of your next meal. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners, nutritious lunches, or even sweet treats to satisfy your cravings, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 delicious leftover brown rice recipes.
From classic comfort foods like cheesy casseroles and stir-fries, to healthier options like veggie-packed bowls and soups, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Most of these recipes are easy to make and can be whipped up in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want to serve up a satisfying meal.
Fried Brown Rice with Vegetables and Egg
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 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 diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked brown rice. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until they’re almost set.
6. Mix the eggs into the rice mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or oyster sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Rice and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
This flavorful recipe combines nutritious brown rice and black beans with sweet bell peppers, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. The smoky flavor of the roasted peppers pairs perfectly with the savory filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, black beans, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the filling mixture, mounding it slightly.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Brown Rice Casserole with Broccoli
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the simplicity of brown rice, the richness of cheese, and the nutritional boost of broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 cup frozen broccoli florets, thawed
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked brown rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and paprika. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and olive oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is lightly browned on top and heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Rice and Chicken Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for any meal. With minimal prep time and simple cooking instructions, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 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 chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the skillet with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Serve hot over cooked brown rice, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Brown Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins
This classic dessert is a staple of many cuisines, and for good reason – the combination of creamy brown rice, sweet raisins, and warm cinnamon is irresistible. This simple recipe yields a comforting and satisfying treat that’s perfect for a cozy evening or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine brown rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened and the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Stir in raisins and butter until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Brown Rice and Veggie Buddha Bowl
This nutritious bowl combines fluffy brown rice with roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy tahini dressing for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide cooked brown rice among four bowls. Top with roasted vegetables, fresh cilantro leaves, and drizzle with tahini dressing.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Brown Rice and Shrimp Skillet
This flavorful skillet combines succulent shrimp with spicy brown rice, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of smokiness from chipotle peppers. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve the spicy brown rice alongside the skillet mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Rice and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils and fiber-packed brown rice, simmered together with aromatic spices for a satisfying meal. This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in 1 tablespoon of water until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the brown rice, lentils, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the water, bringing the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice and lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Brown Rice Salad with Avocado and Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the creaminess of avocado, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is also great as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked brown rice, diced avocado, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and a pinch of salt.
3. Pour the lime dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time) + 0 minutes (cooking time)
Brown Rice and Mushroom Risotto
A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the nutty taste of brown rice with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g. cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add brown rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with mushroom mixture.
5. Gradually add broth, stirring constantly, and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and creamy.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Rice and Tuna Patties
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional tuna patties, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the savory taste of canned tuna. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked brown rice, tuna flakes, panko breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each part into a patty.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per serving
Brown Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Add a nutritious twist to your meal with this simple recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory goodness of brown rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored and hollowed out
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked brown rice with olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stuff each tomato with the brown rice mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese (if using) and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Rice and Sweet Potato Hash
This simple yet flavorful hash is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite breakfast, brunch, or dinner dishes. With the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the nutty flavor of brown rice, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
5. Add cooked brown rice to the pan with onion and stir to combine.
6. Add roasted sweet potato to the pan and stir to combine.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brown Rice Porridge with Almonds and Honey
Warm up with this comforting Brown Rice Porridge with Almonds and Honey! This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy breakfast or as a soothing snack to calm your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon almond butter
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Optional: 1 tablespoon dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness
Instructions:
1. Rinse the brown rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine with water, salt, and almond butter in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
3. Stir in sliced almonds and honey until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Serve warm, garnished with dried cranberries or raisins if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Rice and Chickpea Curry
This hearty curry is a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and nutty flavors, with the added fiber and texture from brown rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. Serve hot over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Rice and Sausage Jambalaya
This classic Cajun dish is a hearty one-pot wonder that combines the rich flavors of brown rice, spicy sausage, and savory vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked brown rice
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return sausage to the pot and stir to coat with the jambalaya mixture.
6. Serve hot over cooked brown rice, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Brown Rice and Spinach Frittata
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the nutritional benefits of spinach. This frittata is perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 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 large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add cooked brown rice and chopped spinach to the egg mixture; stir until well combined.
4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the frittata is cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Brown Rice and Turkey Meatballs
A hearty and nutritious meal that combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with juicy turkey meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them to coat evenly.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve brown rice alongside turkey meatballs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Rice and Pineapple Fried Rice
This sweet and savory dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the nutty goodness of brown rice with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked brown rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is heated through.
6. Add the diced pineapple and stir-fry for another 2 minutes, until well combined.
7. Season with soy sauce to taste, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown Rice and Kale Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy rice, tender kale, and savory flavors. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the brown rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Gradually add the water or broth, stirring constantly.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
7. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of throwing away leftover brown rice? Think again! With these 20 delicious recipes, you can transform it into a flavorful and nutritious meal. From stir-fries to casseroles, salads to soups, there’s something for everyone. Try Fried Brown Rice with Vegetables and Egg, Cheesy Brown Rice Casserole with Broccoli, or Spicy Brown Rice and Shrimp Skillet. Or, get creative with Brown Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins or Brown Rice Stuffed Tomatoes. Whether you’re a busy professional or a health-conscious foodie, these recipes will inspire you to repurpose your leftover brown rice and reduce food waste.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
