8 Ways to Reuse Leftover Broth You Never Thought Of

Leftover broth often ends up forgotten in the fridge—until it’s poured down the drain. But that savory liquid is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it far too valuable to waste. From smarter cooking swaps to unexpected kitchen upgrades, here are eight clever ways to reuse leftover broth and get every last drop of goodness out of it.

Cook Grains Instead of Using Water

Swap water for broth when cooking rice, quinoa, couscous, or farro. The grains absorb all that flavor, instantly, making even the simplest side dish taste restaurant-worthy.

Freeze It in Ice Cube Trays

Pour broth into ice cube trays and freeze. These single-serve cubes are perfect for quick pan sauces, sautés, or adding flavor to vegetables without thawing an entire container.

Use It to Deglaze Pans

After searing meat or vegetables, pour a splash of broth into the hot pan to loosen up those browned bits. You’ll create a fast, flavorful sauce with zero extra effort.

Add It to Mashed Potatoes

Replace some (or all) of the milk or cream with warm broth when mashing potatoes. It keeps them creamy while adding savory depth—especially great with chicken or vegetable broth.

Make Savory Oatmeal

Skip the sweet toppings and cook oats in broth instead. Top with a soft-boiled egg, sautéed greens, or a sprinkle of cheese for a comforting, savory breakfast or quick dinner.

Boost Store-Bought Sauces

Stir leftover broth into jarred pasta sauce, curry sauce, or gravy to thin it out and enhance flavor. It’s an easy way to make store-bought taste more homemade.

Steam Vegetables for Extra Flavor

Use broth instead of water when steaming vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. They’ll come out more flavorful without needing extra butter or salt.

Turn It Into a Quick Sipping Broth

Warm it up, add a squeeze of lemon, fresh herbs, or a pinch of ginger, and enjoy it as a comforting drink. It’s perfect for cold days or when you want something light but satisfying.

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