15 Ways to Use Up Pot Roast Leftovers

Delicious pot roasts usually leave leftovers!

Here are 15 fun ways to repurpose pot roast leftovers in new exciting ways.

Every January I ask my readers what they want "more of" in the new year and one overwhelming response was ways to use up leftovers!

And to whittle that down a bit further - big cuts of meat - like pot roast. We all love a slow cooked pot roast that gives us the most tender and flavorful meat, but let's be honest it does make a lot and often there are leftovers. You guys asked this about chili too - here's a leftover post on that one.

And before we get ANY further - before you make that pot roast be sure to read all of my tips & tricks on making the best one right here.

15 Ways to Use Up Pot Roast Leftovers

I have hand picked 15 great (new!) recipes that you can use these pot roast leftovers for - everything from savory pies to casseroles to flavorful Mexican dishes to nachos and soup. So much to choose from!

1. Soup

Of course soup is an easy choice, but trying to decide what kind of soup to make and what ingredients are needed can be a challenge. This Leftover Roast Beef and Wild Rice Soup from the Family Food Kitchen looks amazing. Hearty mushrooms and other veggies are combined in a beef stock, ketchup (!) and heavy cream combo. Grab some bread for dunking and dig into this one.

2. Shepard's Pie

This one is obvious in my opinion, but why not Shepard's Pie? Many people also call it Cottage Pie. Either way it's a hearty dinner that can be repurposed from pot roast leftovers. Vegetables are combined with the beef in a homemade gravy and topped with buttery mashed potatoes, then baked to perfection.

3. Artichoke Dip

I would have NEVER thought to put leftover roast beef in a cheesy artichoke dip, but oh my gosh does this look fantastic. I think you should serve it alongside toasted baguettes - because I'd make this a full meal. Multiple cheese, spinach, garlic, pot roast, artichokes and more get baked to bubbly perfection.

4. Pot Roast Casserole

This one may seem obvious, but why not a simple casserole? This one combines two boxes of au gratin potatoes, carrots, celery, onion and of course that leftover pot roast! Bake this up and no one will even know leftovers were involved.

5. Breakfast Hash

Often known as a Southern dish, hash is made of chopped meat, potatoes and onions - in other words a great way to use up leftover pot roast! This fun breakfast version is cooked in a cast iron skillet, you could even add scrambled eggs for more protein. Your family won't go hungry that's for sure.

6. Beef Salad Sandwiches

Just like we turn leftover chopped ham into ham salad, you can turn leftover chopped beef into beef salad! This recipe mixes it with chopped celery, onion, pickles, Miracle Whip and sour cream. Super tasty on hearty bread for sandwiches the next day.

7. Pot Roast Rigatoni Casserole

I'm loving this pasta casserole - all of that leftover beef is mixed with sautéed mushrooms and onions in a creamy cheese sauce (Parmesan, heavy cream, Boursin cheese and more). Can easily be prepped ahead and baked off later.

8. Beef Stew

Obvious choice, right? A delicious one too. I have a great Instant Pot version that we love right here, but this recipe for beef stew incorporates the already cooked and leftover beef. Either recipe is awesome! We like to serve beef stew with a hearty bread (like my No Knead Artisan Bread) for dunking.

9. Stroganoff

A comfort dish must have, who doesn't love stroganoff? I grew up eating it and I'm sure my Mom would have loved to know you can also make it with leftover roast beef. This recipe is perfect over egg noodles or rice...even a baked potato!

10. Nachos

What? Nachos? You betcha. Honestly anything can be layered on nachos and leftover roast beef works as well. These are layered with barbecue sauce, jalapenos, cheddar cheese and all our favorite nacho toppings like salsa and sour cream.

11. Sliders

Most everyone loves a good sandwich or slider and these take that leftover roast beef and top them with caramelized onions. Add on Swiss cheese and bake to perfection and you have a great "leftover" dinner.

12. Gyros

Hey, these gyros are not traditional, but they are delicious! Use up that leftover roast beef and whip up a quick homemade tzatziki sauce to top them with. Grab a package of pita bread to sandwich it all between and dinner and done.

13. Roast Beef Pot Pie

A great pot pie doesn't always have to have chicken. Instead use up that leftover roast beef and combine it with potatoes, veggies and broth and layer it all in between store bought pie crusts. A great comfort meal for winter.

14. Chili

Almost all traditional chili includes beef, so why not in chili? All your favorites in this one - tomatoes, a variety of beans, spices and of course fun toppings! Cheese, salsa, sour cream, crackers. 

15. Enchiladas

Let's go Mexican style! Leftover spiced roast beef is layered between corn tortillas and all the fixings - beans, tomatoes and cheese, then baked till bubbly. A great meal to also take to someone needing a pick me up!

I hope these 15 recipes have given you some new ideas! Leftovers don't have to be bland and boring. Spice them up a little and invent a brand new meal. And speaking of leftovers, chili makes a big pot too - be sure to check out my 15 Ways to Use Up Leftover Chili.

I would love for you to share this post with your busy friends and family. It's a great one to reference when you need some new ideas!