The requests for ways to use up leftover taco meat over the years have been in the hundreds!
Browse this list for some new dinner ideas.
We've all been there....what do I do with this leftover seasoned taco meat? Throw it in the freezer and forget about it? Throw it away?
Wasting bothers everyone, so I've gathered some NEW ways to use up that leftover taco meat. Yes, you can turn it into an entirely different meal!
In this list I have a soup, some pasta, a savory pie, a unique open faced burger, a healthier veggie heavy dish and even a breakfast option!
Let's get started.
Mexican Taco Egg Bake - this original recipe uses chorizo, but substituting taco meat works great too! If you love savory breakfasts this one is for you - roasted potatoes, eggs, cotija cheese, it's perfect.
Pizza Burgers - these are a family staple in our house, especially on busy weeknights. Using the leftover taco meat will only give them extra flavor!
Zucchini Boats - we make these a lot in the Summer when zucchini is abundant and they can be "stuffed" with anything! Consider leftover taco meat, salsa and cheese.
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Nacho Taco Pizza - did you know taco pizza was invented in Iowa? It's a staple at every pizza joint in the state. Use that leftover taco meat as the base and dinner is almost done.
Spicy Taco Soup - this low-fat, high protein and fiber soup is about as easy to make as ordering a pizza. It's the perfect dish to use up leftover taco meat.
Oven Baked Tostadas - my kids love these! Think of them like an open faced taco. Spread the tostadas with refried beans and layer on the leftover taco meat, bake and then top with your favorite toppings!
Cheesy Taco Stuffed Mini Peppers - these bite sized beauties are fun! Great for parties or dinner. Grab the sweet mini peppers and start stuffing!
Dorito Burrito Bake - my 11 year old made these awhile back, that's how easy it is! Crescent rolls, taco meat, crushed Doritos, sour cream and salsa are baked together casserole style.
Mexican Stuffed Shells - stuffed shells but make them Mexi-style! This baked pasta dish will have people surprised and intrigued. It's so good!
Cheeseburger Chowder - one of my good friends told me anytime they have leftover taco meat they put it in this soup! Genius really.
Taco Pie - an old stand by recipe, it's one I've made many times for friends who had babies or with a recent hospital stay. It can be kept in the fridge for a day or two until ready to bake!
Skillet Taco Mac & Cheese - who doesn't love creamy pasta? And this one has all of your favorite taco flavors, plus fun toppings.
Creamy Beef Burritos - a super easy six ingredient dinner that is always a crowd pleaser. If you have leftover taco meat on hand half the work is already done!
Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta - did you grow up eating Hamburger Helper? If so, here is my homemade version. Using leftover beef makes this one even simpler.
Smokey Beef Queso - my most popular queso is hands down the best. It can be made in the oven, the show cooker or on the smoker. Using your leftover taco meat will make it even better.
Which one are you going to make first?
Using up leftovers is like winning a prize for any Mom, we don't like to waste food! I hope any one of these 15 meals will make your life a bit easier.
