We’ve all done it—you fire up the grill for a backyard BBQ, flipping juicy burgers, piling them high with toppings, and wrapping everything up in soft, fluffy buns. But then when the party comes to a close, you’re left staring at a double stack of leftover hamburger buns with no matching burgers left. What now?
Before even think about throwing them away, STOP! Those buns aren’t reserved only for burgers; they’re a blank canvas for all kinds of seriously tasty dishes. There are countless ways to turn those buns into a quick snack, a creative dessert or a comforting meal.
Are you ready to get the most out of your leftovers? Sure leftovers can be boring — but here are 10 inspired ways to use those extra hamburger buns for something delicious.
1. Garlic Bread Bombs
If you enjoy garlic bread, this one’s a no-brainer. A few basic ingredients can take those buns straight to golden, buttery, garlicky perfection.
How to Make It:
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the mixture over the buns, covering them all.
- Sprinkle in the 10- to 15-minute of baking in 375 °F oven until edges become golden and crispy.
- Great side for those pasta, soups or salad!
2. Bread Pudding
Need to fix your sweet tooth? Turn stale hamburger buns into a warm, custardy bread pudding that brings comfort with every bite.
How to Make It:
- To make bread pudding, tear the buns into bite-sized pieces, place them in a buttered baking dish.
- Combine eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon and vanilla extract in a large bowl, and whisk until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture over the buns, and let soak for 10 minutes.
- Pour into pie crust, and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes golden brown and set.
- Finish with caramel sauce, powdered sugar, or like a scoop of ice cream for the really ultimate dessert!
3. Homemade Croutons
Croutons give an irresistible crunch to soups and salads, and homemade ones are cheaper and tastier than store-bought.
How to Make It:
- Slice the buns into small cubes.
- Toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Roast at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Keep it in a sealed jar and toss them over your favorite salads or creamy soup.
4. French Toast Sticks
Transform stale buns into French toast sticks that both kids and adults will happily dip in syrup.
How to Make It:
- Cut the buns into thick strips.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, sugar and vanilla.
- Pour some of the mixture into a bowl and add the bun strips one at a time, coating them completely.
- Cook in a buttered skillet over medium heat until deep golden brown all over.
- Top with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for the ultimate breakfast!
5. Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs are necessary for breading chicken, for topping casseroles, for crunching the top of pasta. Instead of purchasing them, make them from leftover buns!
How to Make It:
- Tear the buns into pieces and leave them to dry out overnight.
- Pulse in a food processor to the desired texture.
- Keep in an airtight container for months!
- Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder or grated Parmesan for additional flavor before you stow it away.
6. Mini Pizzas
No pizza dough? No problem! Hamburger buns are perfect pizza-bases in mini form for a quick lunch or snack.
How to Make It:
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- Lightly toast the buns.
- Spread with pizza sauce, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and your favorite toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, veggies, etc.)
- Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- It’s quick and dirty, but kid-friendly and delicious!
7. Savory Bread Soufflé
Make a cheesy, fluffy soufflé out of those buns that’s a showstopper if you serve it for brunch.
How to Make It:
- Break the buns into pieces no larger than 1 or 2 inches.
- Beat eggs with milk, shredded cheese, salt, pepper and herbs.
- Pour over the buns and let soak 10 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Pair with a salad or some roasted veggies to make it gourmet!
8. Stuffed Buns
Both feature the same steamed buns, but they’ve been stuffed full, making them a meal on their own.
Filling Ideas:
- Pulled pork & coleslaw
- Scrambled eggs & cheese
- Buffalo chicken & ranch
- Tuna salad & lettuce
Wrap the buns in foil, heat them in the oven and you’ve got a handheld feast!
9. Bread and Butter Pudding
Next Level: It’s bread pudding, but in buttery, cozy, pudding shape.
How to Make It:
- Tear the buns into pieces and put in a buttered dish.
- Sprinkle in raisins or chopped nuts.
- Pour to combine with a simple custard treatment (eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla).
- Bake until golden and set, about 35-40 minutes at 350°F.
- Serve with whipped cream, and/or drizzle with honey for extra indulgence!
10. Crispy Fish or Chicken Sandwiches
Use your leftover buns to make crispy, golden chicken or fish sandwiches!
How to Make It:
- Then bread your protein in flour, egg and homemade breadcrumbs.
- Fry or bake until crispy.
- Toast the buns and assemble with lettuce, tomato and sauce.
- Take your sandwich to new heights with a restaurant-quality sandwich at home!
FAQs
Can I freeze leftover hamburger buns? Yes! Put them in the freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature or lightly toast before using.
How long will hamburger buns be fresh? They will stay fresh for 5-7 days in a cool, dry location. Store in a zip-top bag to prevent drying out.
How do I rehydrate stale buns? Sprinkle them with a little water and bake in the oven for a few minutes.
Can I use gluten-free buns in these recipes? Yes! All of these creative recipes work with gluten-free buns just fine.
Final Thoughts
The next time you want to throw away extra hamburger buns, DON’T! These 10 simple recipes transform them into savory snacks, sweet treats and satisfying meals.
You’ll save on food waste and find new family-favorites along the way. So, get your hands dirty and have fun — your taste buds (and your bank account) will thank you!
