Got leftover meatloaf? Perfect—because there are so many fun ways to turn it into something totally new! From spaghetti and chili to tacos, burgers, and even bites in meatball style, here are 15 awesome ideas your whole crew will love.
Meatloaf’s a staple at our place—it hits that perfect mix of salty, savory, and a little sweet, and the leftovers are gold. I usually make a couple loaves at once just so I’ve got extras to play with.
But let’s be honest—no matter how much you love meatloaf, eating it the same way night after night can get old. Even in a house full of meatloaf fans, I’ve gotta switch things up.
The good news? Meatloaf is super versatile, and you can totally transform it into something fresh and delicious.
Whether you’re craving something saucy with gravy, tossing it into a comforting aloo dish, or just need a smart way to use up leftover meatloaf in a creative way—this list has you covered. Let’s get cooking!
Contents
15. Try to Make Meatloaf with Stroganoff Sauce
Give your leftovers a second life by transforming them into a rich and comforting meatloaf stroganoff. All it takes is whipping up a creamy stroganoff sauce — then pairing it with tender slices of meatloaf for a cozy, satisfying meal.
This twist on the classic features a savory meatloaf packed with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic, all smothered in that velvety, tangy stroganoff-style sauce. Serve it over a bed of egg noodles for a traditional touch that brings the whole dish together.
It’s an easy, delicious way to turn yesterday’s meatloaf into tonight’s hearty, homey dinner.
14. Easy Leftover Italian Meatloaf Open-faced Sandwich
Meatloaf. The word alone feels a bit retro — like something from a bygone era that’s fallen out of favor. I used to feel the same way… until I decided to reinvent it.
I wanted a version that was moist, flavorful, and nothing like the dry, bland slabs you might remember from a school cafeteria.
After a bit of trial and error, I created my go-to recipe: Italian-style meatloaf with a tangy tomato sauce topping. It’s rich, tender, and packed with flavor — a far cry from the meatloaf of the past.
Then came the next challenge: what to do with the leftovers. Reheating meatloaf in the microwave just didn’t sound appealing, so I got creative. After some experimenting, I discovered the perfect solution — an open-faced sandwich.
Toasted bread, a warm slice of meatloaf, maybe a little extra sauce or melted cheese on top — suddenly, leftovers became something to look forward to.
13. My Favorite Leftover Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe with a Slice of Cheese!
The ultimate leftover meatloaf sandwich starts with a thick, juicy slice of meatloaf, served warm on toasted bread, layered with one (or two!) slices of melty cheese, and topped with whatever fixings you love most.
It’s a quick, satisfying lunch or an easy weeknight dinner that hits the spot every time.
Both of my grandfathers kept it simple — cold meatloaf sandwiches packed for work. Just plain white bread, a cold meatloaf slice, maybe some cheese, mayo, mustard, or pickles. Nothing fancy, but hearty and filling.
As for me (and my picky eaters), we like it hot. I take that classic idea and give it a cheeseburger-style upgrade — toasty bread, warm meatloaf, gooey cheese, and burger-style toppings. It’s comfort food, reimagined.
12. Leftover Meatloaf Enchilada Casserole
I’m a big fan of meatloaf — so much so that I always make an oversized one just to guarantee leftovers.
Because honestly, is there anything better than a cold meatloaf sandwich the next day? But occasionally, I find myself staring at half of a 3-pound meatloaf… and no one’s in the mood for sandwiches.
That’s when I turn to this quick, easy, and super flavorful leftover meatloaf recipe. It’s fast, satisfying, and a great way to breathe new life into those extra slices.
A quick note: I don’t add any extra salt to this dish, since both the meatloaf and the tortilla chips already bring plenty of seasoning. Depending on your original meatloaf and chip brand, it can lean salty — so taste and adjust carefully as you go.
11. Meatloaf Tacos – Best Leftover Meatloaf Recipe!
Meatloaf tacos are a fun and flavorful spin on the classic taco — perfect for giving your leftovers a second life. Instead of the usual ground beef, you’ll use slices of tender, juicy meatloaf as the star filling, adding a rich, savory twist that works surprisingly well.
Just warm up the meatloaf, slice it into strips or chunks, and tuck it into soft tortillas. From there, load them up with your favorite toppings — think shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, avocado, or even a drizzle of spicy mayo.
The blend of textures and familiar taco flavors with the deep, seasoned taste of meatloaf creates a fresh, satisfying take that might just become your new favorite way to use up leftovers.
10. Easy to Make Meatloaf Egg Rolls
Craving Asian-inspired comfort food? Here’s a fun and tasty idea: turn your leftover meatloaf into egg roll filling! It’s a brilliant fusion of American heartiness and classic Asian flair — and once you try it, you might start making extra meatloaf just for this purpose.
Chop or crumble the meatloaf, mix it with a few shredded veggies like cabbage or carrots, wrap it up in egg roll wrappers, and fry or bake until crispy and golden. The result is savory, satisfying, and totally snackable.
I’m a sucker for finger foods like this — whether I cut them in half for dipping or go all in with a full roll. And don’t skip the spicy jalapeño ketchup on the side. It’s super easy to whip up and adds the perfect kick to these meaty, crispy bites.
9. Hot and Crusty Meatloaf Burgers
Because honestly — who doesn’t love a good burger? And if you’ve already perfected your go-to burger recipe, here’s a wild idea to take it up a notch: top your juicy patty with a slice of crispy, pan-fried meatloaf.
Double the meat, double the flavor — it sounds like madness, but trust me, it totally works.
I’m a huge fan of meatloaf, but even more obsessed with meatloaf sandwiches. I’ve been known to make a whole loaf just for the leftovers.
There’s something magical about frying a cold slice in a buttered skillet until it’s hot and crusty, then serving it on toast with ketchup.
This recipe takes that love and turns it into a full-on burger — throw in a little bacon for good measure, and you’ve got the ultimate comfort food mashup. It’s indulgent, over-the-top, and completely irresistible.
8. Meatloaf Egg Scramble for Breakfast
Meatloaf + eggs = breakfast perfection. If you’ve got leftover meatloaf hanging around, skip the sausage — just crumble up a few slices and toss them into your scrambled eggs. It’s quick, hearty, and ridiculously satisfying.
I like to give the meatloaf a little extra love by pan-searing the chunks first. That bit of caramelization adds a crispy, savory edge that takes everything up a notch. Add in some cooked potatoes, and you’ve basically got yourself a meatloaf hash.
But once you stir in those fluffy scrambled eggs and a sprinkle of cheese? Boom — it’s breakfast for dinner, and it’s glorious.
7. Sweet and Savory Meatloaf Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Here’s a fun and mouthwatering twist: turn your next grilled cheese into a full-blown comfort food masterpiece by adding leftover meatloaf!
Layer thick slices of meatloaf with a generous scoop of creamy mac and cheese between two buttery slices of bread, then grill it to golden, melty perfection.
The sweet and savory flavors of the meatloaf pair beautifully with the rich, cheesy pasta — it’s bold, indulgent, and honestly, kind of genius.
Easy to make and impossible to resist, this mashup might just become your new favorite way to use up leftovers.
6. Mac and Cheese + Meatloaf Leftover
Mac and cheese is already a comfort food classic — rich, creamy, and totally satisfying. But if you really want to take it to the next level? Add in some crumbled leftover meatloaf.
That savory beef adds just the right depth and heartiness to turn a side dish into a full-on main event.
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is everything you want in a cozy, family-friendly meal. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to throw together, and a great way to repurpose leftovers without anyone feeling like they’re eating the same thing twice.
If you’re after a simple ground beef casserole that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds, this one’s a winner.
5. Amazing Meatloaf Quiche
A meatloaf quiche? Absolutely — and it’s every bit as tasty as it sounds. The rich, savory flavors of meatloaf pair beautifully with creamy eggs and melty cheese, making it a natural fit for a hearty, satisfying quiche.
The best part? You don’t need a ton of leftover meatloaf to make it work. Even a small amount adds great flavor and texture.
Just crumble what you’ve got into your egg mixture, add your favorite cheese, maybe a splash of milk or cream, and bake until golden and set.
It’s an easy, delicious way to turn leftovers into a brunch-worthy dish — or a cozy dinner that feels like something brand new.
4. Delicious Meatloaf Shepherd’s Pie
Give your leftover meatloaf a cozy makeover by turning it into a hearty shepherd’s pie — topped with a generous layer of creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort food mashup and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
Just crumble or chop up your meatloaf and spread it in a baking dish, then top with veggies (like peas, carrots, or corn) and a thick blanket of mashed potatoes. Bake until everything is bubbling and golden on top.
Any kind of meatloaf will work here, so don’t stress about the recipe. And if you don’t have leftovers? No problem — many grocery stores sell prepared meatloaf near the rotisserie chickens.
Grab one and you’re halfway there to a warm, filling dinner that’s guaranteed to hit the spot.
3. Meatloaf Chili for Mexican Feast
Another brilliant way to breathe new life into leftover meatloaf? Turn it into a flavorful pot of chili! It’s perfect for casual get-togethers, a cozy Mexican-themed dinner night, or even one of those late-night comfort food cravings.
Since the meatloaf is already seasoned, it adds a unique depth of flavor to the chili — rich, savory, and totally satisfying. Just crumble it into your pot along with beans, tomatoes, chili spices, and any extras you love.
This hack works so well, you might want to start making extra meatloaf on purpose as part of your weekly meal plan — just so you can enjoy a batch of this hearty chili a day or two later. It’s simple, clever, and seriously delicious.
2. Creamy and Cheesy Meatloaf Sandwich
Or here’s a classic that never gets old — the meatloaf sandwich. Just grab two slices of your favorite bread, tuck in a thick, juicy slab of meatloaf, and boom — you’ve got yourself a satisfying, no-fuss meal.
Dress it up with your go-to condiments like mustard, ketchup, or mayo, and don’t forget the cheese. Personally, I’m a big fan of adding Swiss or Havarti — their creamy, melty texture pairs perfectly with the savory meatloaf and takes the whole sandwich to the next level.
Simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable, it’s one of the best ways to enjoy leftovers (or an excuse to make meatloaf in the first place).
1. Leftover Meatloaf Spaghetti for Quick Dinner
Leftover meatloaf is a secret weapon in the kitchen — especially when it comes to quick and easy meals like spaghetti. Since the meat is already cooked and seasoned, you’re saving time and boosting flavor.
Just crumble the meatloaf into bite-sized chunks, heat it up in a pan with your favorite tomato sauce, and let the flavors meld for a few minutes. Then pour that rich, savory sauce over freshly cooked pasta and voilà — dinner is done.
It’s simple, satisfying, and a genius way to give classic spaghetti night a flavorful twist with almost zero extra effort.
15 Best Leftover Meatloaf Recipes | Sandwiches for a Tasty Meal
Discover 15 best leftover meatloaf recipes that transform your slices into delicious meatloaf sandwiches and creative meals.
Ingredients
- Meatloaf with Stroganoff Sauce
- Leftover Italian Meatloaf Open-faced Sandwich
- Leftover Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe
- Leftover Meatloaf Enchilada Casserole
- Meatloaf Tacos
- Meatloaf Egg Rolls
- Meatloaf Burgers
- Meatloaf Egg Scramble
- Meatloaf Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Mac and Cheese… and Meatloaf
- Meatloaf Quiche
- Meatloaf Shepherd’s Pie
- Meatloaf Chili
- Meatloaf Sandwich
- Leftover Meatloaf Spaghetti
Instructions
- Choose any Leftover Meatloaf Recipes from the post that you like
- Click on the link below the photo to get the full recipes and instructions.
- Try the best Leftover Meatloaf Recipes and share your photo under my pin on Pinterest!
I’m Anastasia and I’m a full-time blogger, online entrepreneur, and Pinterest marketing strategist. I help digital entrepreneurs and bloggers drive targeted traffic from Pinterest either through my online courses or through Pinterest consultancy.