How to Reheat These 14 Leftovers for Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknights call for quick and easy meals, and leftovers can be a lifesaver. But reheating food properly for texture is arguably very important. Here’s a quick guide on how to reheat 14 leftovers I’ve had to make in the past, and hopefully these tips will also ensure delicious and safe meals when time is tight for you!

How to Reheat Fried Rice

Leftover fried rice can be a quick and delicious meal option on its own or with a side, but did you know reheating it properly is important not just due to taste, but safety as well?

Reheating Instructions

1. Microwave Method: Add 3 teaspoons of water to the rice. Place in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a plate. Heat for 3 minutes, stir, then heat for another 3 minutes.
2. Stovetop Method: Add oil or butter to a pan. Add 1/4 cup water and the rice. Cover and fry for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Oven Method: Add 7 teaspoons of water to the rice in an oven-safe dish. Cover and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
4. Air Fryer Method: Place rice in the air fryer basket. Cook at high heat for 10 minutes.
5. Steamer Method: Spread rice on a heat-safe plate. Steam for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Tips

• Always check for signs of spoilage before reheating.
• Add a small amount of water to prevent drying out.
• Reheat to an internal temperature of at least 165°F for safety.
• Only reheat rice once to avoid bacterial growth.
• Store leftover rice in the refrigerator within 1-2 hours of cooking.
• Enhance flavor by adding fresh vegetables, proteins, or sauces when reheating.
• Use low to medium heat for even reheating and to prevent drying.
• Fluff the rice after reheating to restore texture.

Full blog: How To Reheat Fried Rice

How to Reheat Naan

Naan is delicious but filling, so understandably we’re often left with leftovers. Reheating naan can sometimes lose its texture. Hopefully this method works for you as well in retaining edible reheated naan!

Reheating Instructions

1. Microwave Method: Cover naan with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 40 seconds. Finish on a hot skillet for 20 seconds per side.
2. Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F. Sprinkle water on both sides of the naan. Wrap in foil and heat for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet on high: Cook naan for 15 seconds on each side: Spray with water and brush with butter.
4. Air Fryer Method: Spray air fryer basket with oil or water. Cook at 410°F for 4 minutes. Brush with butter after reheating.

Tips

• Always add moisture (water or butter) to prevent drying out
• Use short heating times to avoid overcooking
• Combine methods (e.g., microwave then skillet) for best results
• Store naan properly to maintain freshness (room temperature for short-term, freezer for long-term)
• Reheat frozen naan directly or defrost first, depending on the method
• Consume reheated naan within 3-5 days for best quality
• Consider using an air fryer for minimal effort and good results
• When using the oven, wrap naan in foil to retain moisture

Full blog: How To Reheat Naan

How to Reheat Pita

While store-bought pita is readily available, reheating leftover pita bread saves money and contributes to less food waste.

Reheating Instructions

1. Open Flame Method (Best Method): Hold pita near an open flame (e.g., gas stove). Heat for about 40 seconds per side until it puffs up. Flip gently to heat evenly
2. Microwave Method: Place a glass of water in the microwave with the pita. Line a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel. Heat in 10-second intervals until warm and flexible
3. Toaster Method: Use lowest heat setting. Toast once or twice as needed, avoiding overheating
4. Stovetop Method: Use an iron skillet or large pan on medium-high heat. Brush pita with thin layer of olive oil on both sides. Heat for 10 seconds per side, repeating until soft and springy

Tips

• Open flame method provides the most authentic result with char and puffiness
• Avoid drying out the bread by using damp paper towels or adding water when microwaving
• Monitor closely when using a toaster to prevent burning
• Use olive oil when reheating on a stovetop for added flavor and to prevent sticking
• Heat until the bread is soft and flexible, not crispy or dry
• Adjust heating times based on the thickness and size of the pita bread
• Serve immediately after reheating for best taste and texture

Full blog: How to Reheat Pita Bread

How to Reheat Garlic Bread

Garlic bread can be reheated to restore its wonderfulness. It’s one of my favorites to get quickly into the oven for meals I’m doing in a rush.

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven Method (Best for Quality): Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap bread in aluminum foil with a tablespoon of water. Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking at 10 minutes
2. Microwave Method (Quickest): Place bread on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 30-second intervals, up to 1 minute
3. Frying Pan Method (For Slices): Heat pan to medium-high. Optionally oil or butter bread slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side

Tips

• Always add moisture (water or butter) before reheating
• Use aluminum foil in the oven to retain moisture and prevent burning
• For microwaving, use a damp paper towel to prevent drying out
• Check bread frequently to avoid overheating
• Store garlic bread in an airtight container to slow staling
• Add fresh butter and garlic after reheating for enhanced flavor
• Allow frozen garlic bread to thaw before reheating
• For crunchier texture, use the frying pan method
• The oven method produces the best results but takes longer
• Microwave method is quickest but may affect texture
• Frying pan method works well for individual slices and creates a crunchier texture

Full blog: How to Reheat Garlic Bread

How to Reheat Churros

Churros are completely fine to reheat. The texture won’t be as good as when they were freshly made. But it can still be enjoyable to reheat them if you have any leftover.

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven Method: Preheat oven to 300°F. Wrap churros in aluminum foil. Heat for 5 minutes, checking periodically.
2. Microwave Method: Wrap churros in a damp paper towel. Microwave on low for 2-3 minutes or on high for 30-second intervals.
3. Air Fryer Method: Set air fryer to 375°F. Heat for 5-8 minutes, checking after 5 minutes.
4. Toaster Oven Method: Heat to 375°F. Warm for 5 minutes, then check and add 3 minutes if needed.
5. Stovetop Method: Heat pan over medium heat. Heat up churros for 5-10 minutes, turning frequently.

Tips

1. Use aluminum foil or damp paper towels to retain moisture
2. Check churros frequently to avoid overcooking
3. Space churros apart in air fryers to prevent sogginess
4. Avoid greasing the pan when using the stovetop method
5. Enhance reheated churros with cinnamon sugar or dipping sauces
6. Store churros in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days
7. Serve warm for best texture, but cool churros are still enjoyable
8. Reheating time varies between 5-10 minutes depending on the method

Full blog: How to Reheat Churros

How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls can go stale pretty easily. While they’re best when fresh, you can definitely reheat them to revive them a bit!

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven Method (Best for Quality): Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap rolls individually in foil with a tablespoon of water. Optional: Add icing before wrapping. Heat for 10-15 minutes
2. Air Fryer Method: Place roll on parchment paper in air fryer. Add a tablespoon of water and optional icing. Cook at 350°F for about 5 minutes
3. Microwave Method (Quickest): Place roll on microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 10-second intervals
4. Toaster Oven Method: Preheat to 350°F. Add water and optional icing to roll. Wrap in foil and heat for 10 minutes

Tips

• Always add moisture (water or icing) before reheating
• Use aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent burning
• Check rolls frequently to avoid overheating
• For microwaving, use a damp paper towel instead of a glass of water
• Eat microwave-reheated rolls immediately to prevent shriveling
• Store cinnamon rolls in an airtight container to slow staling
• Ingredients like lard, butter, and milk can increase shelf life
• Reheating can’t fully restore freshly baked quality, but can significantly improve texture and taste

Full blog: How To Reheat Cinnamon Rolls

How To Reheat Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are nutritious, delicious – AND easily reheated.

Reheating Instructions

1. Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 190°F (88°C). Heat for 15 minutes. For frozen peppers, heat for 30 minutes
2. Microwave Method (Quickest): Cut pepper in half. Cover with damp paper towel. Microwave for 40 seconds. Let sit for 2 minutes before serving
3. Instant Pot Method: Place peppers in a dish with water. Steam for 5-10 minutes
4. Oven Method (Best for Multiple Peppers): Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Add 1 tablespoon of water to each pepper. Cover with foil. Heat for 25 minutes
5. Reheating Frozen Peppers: Oven: 350°F for 40 minutes. Air Fryer: 350°F for 20 minutes

Tips

• Check internal temperature (aim for 165°F or 74°C)
• Add moisture to prevent drying out
• Space peppers apart when reheating
• Cover with foil in the oven to prevent burning
• For undercooked rice-stuffed peppers, use the oven method
• Avoid microwaving frozen stuffed peppers
• Refrigerated peppers last up to 3 days after reheating
• Oven method is best for maintaining texture and flavor
• Reheating time varies based on method and whether peppers are frozen

Full blog: How To Reheat Stuffed Peppers

How to Reheat Egg Rolls

Egg rolls can be tricky to reheat while maintaining their crispy texture.

Reheating Instructions

1. Microwave Method (Not Highly Recommended): Place 2-3 egg rolls on a paper towel-lined plate. Heat in 15-second intervals until warm
2. Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Optional: Microwave for 15 seconds first for better internal heating
3. Deep Fryer Method: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry for 30-45 seconds until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels
4. Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cook for 3-5 minutes, checking at 3 minutes
5. Skillet Method: Heat skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of oil. Cook for 1.5 minutes, then flip every 30 seconds until crispy

Tips

• Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes egg rolls soggy
• Space egg rolls apart when reheating to ensure even cooking
• Use an air fryer or deep fryer for the crispiest results
• Pat dry with paper towels after deep frying to remove excess oil
• For homemade or restaurant egg rolls, skillet method works well
• Adjust cooking time for mini egg rolls
• Consider calorie intake when choosing the deep fry method
• Check egg rolls frequently to avoid overcooking
• The best reheating method depends on available time and equipment
• Air fryer and deep fryer methods produce the crispiest results
• Oven method is accessible but takes longer
• Skillet method is a good compromise for crispiness and convenience

Full blog: How to Reheat Egg Rolls

How To Reheat Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes anyone? Versatile and can be easily reheated. Sweet potatoes can be safely reheated if stored properly, keep this in mind!

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat for 15 minutes or until piping hot
2. Stovetop Method: Cut in half, heat in oiled skillet on low heat. Cook 5 minutes per side
3. Microwave Method: Cut in half, wrap in wet paper towels. Microwave for 3 minutes
4. Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Cook halves for 15 minutes

Tips

• Always check internal temperature (aim for 165°F or 74°C)
• Store leftovers in the fridge before reheating
• Add moisture (oil, butter) to prevent drying out
• Space items apart when reheating for even heating
• Allow items to come to room temperature before reheating in oven
• Use oven or air fryer for crispier results
• Avoid reheating sweet potatoes twice
• Microwave method is quickest but may affect texture
• Oven method generally produces best results for texture
• Air fryer is good for quick reheating with crispy results
• Microwave is fastest but may lead to soggy texture

Full blog: How To Reheat Sweet Potato

How To Reheat Calamari

Calamari, or fried squid rings, can be reheated using various methods. Calamari can be eaten cold if stored properly, but reheating is recommended.

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven Method (Best for Crispiness): Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread calamari on baking tray without touching. Heat for 10 minutes. Check internal temperature for safety
2. Microwave Method (Quickest): Wrap calamari in aluminum foil or paper towels. Place in microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 5 minutes. Check temperature before serving
3. Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place calamari in basket without touching. Cook for 7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 7 minutes
4. Toaster Oven Method: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place on baking tray with 2 tablespoons of oil. Heat for 15 minutes or until piping hot

Tips

• Avoid excessive oil to prevent sogginess
• Space calamari pieces apart when reheating
• Check internal temperature for food safety
• Use oven or air fryer for best crispy results
• Minimize oil use in air fryer for healthier option
• Store leftover calamari in airtight container in fridge (max 40°F/4°C)
• Consume within 3-4 days if stored properly
• Avoid eating cold calamari for best taste and texture
• Oven method is best for maintaining crispiness
• Microwave is fastest but may affect texture
• Air fryer provides good results without extra oil

Full blog: How To Reheat Calamari

How to Reheat Cheesesteak

Reheating a cheesesteak without it becoming dry or mushy is a task indeed, but not impossible.

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven Method (Best Overall): Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Wrap cheesesteak in aluminum foil. Heat for about 25 minutes or until warmed through
2. Microwave Method (Quickest): Place on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel or place a mug of water in microwave. Heat on high for about 1 minute 30 seconds
3. Air Fryer Method: Place in air fryer basket. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes
4. Toaster Oven Method: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in aluminum foil. Heat for 10-20 minutes, flipping once

Tips

• Use aluminum foil in oven to retain moisture
• Bring sandwich to room temperature before reheating if possible
• For crispy bread, heat open-faced at 225°F (107°C)
• Check internal temperature (aim for 165°F or 74°C)
• Allow to cool slightly before eating
• For frozen cheesesteaks, allow extra time to heat through
• Oven method is best for maintaining texture and moisture
• Microwave is quickest but may result in soggy bread
• Air fryer provides a good balance of speed and texture

Full blog: How to Reheat a Cheesesteak Properly

How to Reheat Ramen

It might not seem it but reheating ramen can be done effectively.

Reheating Instructions

1. Stovetop Method (Best for Flavor): Heat broth in a saucepan over medium heat. Warm bowl with hot water, then empty. Add room temperature ingredients to warm bowl. Pour hot broth over ingredients and stir
2. Microwave Method (Quickest): Heat broth in 30-second intervals until hot. Add room temperature ingredients to hot broth. Microwave meat and veggies separately if needed (10-20 seconds)

Tips

1. Avoid overheating to prevent mushy noodles
2. Reheat broth until very warm but not boiling
3. Use low heat when reheating on stovetop
4. Separate noodles from broth when storing if possible
5. Stovetop method takes 5-10 minutes, microwave method takes 30-45 seconds
6. Refrigerated instant ramen should be consumed within 1-2 days
7. Separate ingredients before reheating
8. Reheat broth separately from other components
9. Allow ingredients to come to room temperature before adding hot broth

Full blog: How to Reheat Ramen

How to Reheat Chicken

Did you know reheating chicken in the oven can be done effectively without drying it out? SInce we’re covering several chicken types, I’m just gonna be talking about the oven method for this section.

Reheating Instructions

1. Fried Chicken: Microwave briefly with damp paper towels. Finish in 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes
2. Rotisserie Chicken: Place in baking pan with 2-3 tablespoons water/broth. Cover with foil and reheat at recommended temperature
3. Baked Chicken: Similar to rotisserie method. Baste after heating for added flavor
4. Chicken Wings: Microwave briefly, then finish in 350°F oven
5. Chicken Tenders: Reheat at 400°F for about 10 minutes
6. Chicken Breast/Thighs: Add water/broth, cover with foil. Reheat at 350°F until heated through
7. Chicken Nuggets: Use wire rack over baking sheet. Reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes

Tips

• Add a small amount of liquid (water or broth) to maintain moisture
• Cover with foil to retain moisture
• Bring chicken to room temperature before reheating
• Uncover halfway through for crispy skin if desired
• Adjust reheating time based on quantity and thickness of chicken
• Use 350-400°F oven temperature range
• For moist and crispy results, cover for half the time, then uncover
• Check internal temperature for food safety
• Reheating time varies from 10 minutes (nuggets) to 45-60 minutes (whole chicken)
• Microwaving before oven reheating can help maintain moisture
• Avoid overheating in microwave to prevent drying out

Full blog: Reheating Chicken in the Oven

How to Reheat Pizza

Reheating pizza is usually done in an oven or a toaster. But for these instructions, we’re going to use an air fryer – yep!

Reheating Instructions

1. Place pizza slice(s) in air fryer basket
2. Set temperature to 350°F (175°C)
3. Cook for 5 minutes
4. Check and continue cooking in 2-minute intervals if needed

Tips

1. Avoid overlapping pizza slices
2. Supervise the process and check frequently
3. Adjust temperature as needed during cooking
4. Consider pizza thickness when setting time and temperature
5. Use parchment paper for easy cleaning (may increase cooking time by 1 minute)
6. Ideal temperature for reheating pizza in an air fryer is 350°F (175°C)
7. Air fryer method works for both takeout and homemade pizza
8. Reheating time may vary based on pizza thickness and air fryer model

Full blog: Reheat Pizza In Air Fryer

Leftovers Don’t Have to Go to Waste – REHEAT!

Reheating leftovers might not be 100% like freshly made food, but you can enjoy your favorite dishes almost as much as when they were newly cooked. You can still transform your leftovers into delicious meals, reducing food waste and saving time and money in the process. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for your favorite dishes, and enjoy your leftovers with confidence!