By: Julia Mertes, Communications Intern, The Lion’s Pantry

Do you have leftover flour tortillas and taco shells after Taco Tuesday dinner?

There are a variety of recipes that can be made using these ingredients to minimize food waste and spice up one’s diet. Check out these 7 recipe ideas for cooking inspiration.

1. Nachos 

Break the taco shells and create delicious nachos with cheese, beans, olives, guacamole and other fan-favorite ingredients. Some other ingredient ideas include sour cream, jalapeños, corn, ground beef, avocado, chili, salsa, lettuce, hot sauce, peppers and onions.  

 

2. Breakfast Tacos  

Fill your taco shell with breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs, salsa, hot sauce and bacon. This will be a quick and easy dish to start your day with, especially before a long day in class or work.  

 

3. Salad Topping 

Break the taco shells and use them on your salad for added crunch. This would be the perfect addition to a homemade taco salad using lettuce, red onions, sour cream, medium salsa, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, beans and your choice of meat.  

 

4. Chicken Quesadillas  

If you have leftover flour tortillas, use the wraps to make chicken and cheese quesadillas. Fill the tortillas with cheddar cheese, pinto or black beans, canned chicken, and other ingredients that will give you an explosion of southwest flavor. Heat until your ingredients are warmed and melted to your liking. 

 

5. Tortilla Pinwheels  

Use your flour tortillas to make pinwheel snacks for any occasion. Here are five recipe ideas to try this week:  

  • Ham & Cheese Pinwheels = Ham + Swiss Cheese + Spinach + Cream Cheese + Onions 
  • Turkey Ranch Pinwheels = Turkey + Ranch Dressing + Chopped Lettuce + American Cheese + Cream Cheese  
  • Pizza Pinwheels = Tomato Sauce + Mozzarella + Pepperoni + Garlic Salt  
  • Veggie Pinwheels = Cream Cheese + Garlic Powder + Black Pepper and Salt + Bell Pepper + Green Onions + Broccoli + Carrots + Spinach + Cheese 
  • Southwest Pinwheels = Sour Cream + Taco Seasoning + Garlic Powder + Olives + Salsa + Cheddar Cheese + Green Onions 

 

6. Tortilla Pizza

Spread salsa over your flour tortilla, rather than pizza sauce. Then, top the dish with Mexican-Style cheese and your favorite pizza toppings. Bake for approximately 12 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

 

7. Cinnamon And Sugar Tortilla Chips 

Cover your flour tortilla with melted butter and sprinkle with a generous helping of cinnamon and sugar. Bake in the oven until the tortilla chips are brown and crisp.

 

What is your favorite way to use your leftover tortilla shells? Share your recommendations with us.