In an ideal world, I would cook a hot, fresh meal every night, but we all know that is just not reality! Leftovers fill in the gaps on busy nights and make home-cooked lunches possible. With the right recipe, leftovers mean opening your fridge for dinner isn't a drag. You'll actually look forward to several days of eating the recipes we have for you today. From vegetable lasagna and BBQ meatloaf, to slow cooker chicken tikka masala and pumpkin chili, these 17 dinner recipes are even better the next day.

Pasta and Rice

When I'm in the mood for carbs, lasagna, baked ziti, and fried rice top my list of leftovers I love. These big-batch recipes don't just lend themselves into many meals that are easily reheated, but each one also has a flavor that gets better and better.

Soup, Stew, and Curries

The next time soup, chili, and the like are in your meal plan rotation, it wouldn't be a bad idea to double the recipe. Not only do these hearty, warming meals hold up well in the fridge for several days (or in the freezer for several months), but these seasonal favorites are also easy to pack up and make a great lunch.

Meaty Mains

When these meaty mains are in your meal plan rotation, you are in for a real treat. Not only is dinner totally covered for a second night, but you can also be sure it will get rave reviews.