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Blog: Every Bite Counts

Master the Grill, and Your Leftovers

Barbecue season is finally here! There’s nothing quite like the smell of a grill fired up and a table full of food ready to be shared with friends and family. But as many of us know, a great BBQ can lead to a fridge full of leftovers. We’re going to help you become a master of the grill as well as a Leftover Legend.

Skewered and barbecued meats along side dipping sauces, flame roasted vegetables on a wooden table.

Grill Smarter, Waste Less

The best way to combat having too many leftovers is to start with a plan. Yes, we know that sounds simple, but a little bit of prep goes a long way. First, use our portion guide to help you figure out exactly how much you need to cook for your guests. We find it’s always easier to cook up a few more burgers if people are still hungry than it is to figure out what to do with ten extra patties!

Share the Wealth

If you do find yourself with extra food, a secret to becoming a true #LeftoverLegend is to influence others as well! Ask your guests to bring their spare containers and take home some bbq with them.

For BBQ specifically, you know there is bound to be some extra food to go around. This tip ensures your guests will have something to enjoy the next day and you all can take pride in reducing your food waste together!

Hot dogs and hamburgers lay spread across an open barbecue. Cheese is being applied to some of the burger paddies.

Give Your Grilled Ingredients Second Life

Leftovers aren’t just extra food; they’re often the best version of a meal! Last night’s grilled chicken can easily become today’s pulled chicken sandwich, and those roasted veggies are just waiting to be tossed into a frittata, summer salad or reheated as your next side dish.

Fire up that grill with confidence! With a little bit of planning, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of every single bite this summer.

Extra Pro Tips for BBQ Leftovers:

  • Meat: Let your grilled chicken, steak, or ribs cool down before popping them into an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious in the fridge for 3-4 days, but always use your senses when assessing your leftovers.
  • Vegetables: Grilled corn, peppers, and zucchini are perfect for adding to a grain bowl or a fresh salad. Store them separately to keep their texture crisp.
  • Buns: If you have extra buns, keep them in their original packaging or a sealed bag. In the summer months, save them from molding by popping them in the freezer until the day you’re consuming them.