Homemade Bubble and Squeak | The Best Way to Use Leftovers

Bubble and squeak
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There’s something wonderfully thrifty and comforting about a pan of bubble and squeak. Born from the tradition of using up leftover vegetables from a Sunday roast, it turns odds and ends—potatoes, cabbage, sprouts, carrots, or whatever you have lingering in the fridge—into a golden, crispy‑edged dish that feels far more delicious than the sum of its parts. As everything sizzles together in the pan, the vegetables soften, the potatoes crisp, and those little caramelised bits form on the bottom, giving the dish its signature savoury crunch.

It’s quick, unfussy, and endlessly adaptable, whether you’re clearing out the fridge or planning ahead for an easy brunch. Proof that leftovers can be every bit as satisfying as the main event

Serving Suggestions with Bubble and Squeak

  • Fried or poached eggs — the runny yolk is perfect with the crispy edges of the bubble and squeak.
  • Grilled sausages — a hearty, classic pairing for breakfast or brunch.
  • Crispy bacon — salty, smoky and ideal with the soft veg.
  • Leftover roast meats — beef, pork or chicken all work beautifully.
  • Baked beans — a simple, comforting option that turns it into a full meal.
  • Smoked salmon — for a lighter, brunch‑style twist.
  • Sautéed mushrooms — earthy flavours that complement the cabbage and potatoes.
  • Tomato chutney or brown sauce — adds tang and sweetness.
  • Green salad — a fresh contrast if you’re serving it for lunch.
  • Gravy — especially if you’re using leftover roast dinner bubble and squeak

Variations for Bubble and Squeak

  • Cheesy Bubble and Squeak — Mix grated Cheddar into the potato mixture for a golden, cheesy crust and extra flavour.
  • Bacon Bubble and Squeak — Stir cooked bacon pieces through the vegetables for a smoky, savoury twist.
  • Black Pudding Bubble and Squeak — Add crumbled black pudding for a hearty variation that’s perfect for brunch.
  • Spring Onion Bubble and Squeak — Mix in sliced spring onions for a mild onion flavour and added freshness.
  • Mustard Bubble and Squeak — Stir a spoonful of wholegrain mustard into the mixture for a gentle tang.
  • Leek Bubble and Squeak — Add softened leeks for sweetness and a softer texture.
  • Christmas Leftovers Bubble and Squeak — Include leftover sprouts, carrots, parsnips, and stuffing for a festive version.
  • Bubble and Squeak Cakes — Shape the mixture into individual patties for easy serving and extra crispy edges.
  • Herb Bubble and Squeak — Add chopped parsley, chives, or thyme for a fresher flavour profile.
  • Spicy Bubble and Squeak — Mix in chilli flakes or a little smoked paprika for gentle warmth and depth.
  • Bubble and Squeak with Fried Egg — Top each portion with a fried egg for a simple and satisfying meal.
  • Sweet Potato Bubble and Squeak — Replace some of the potatoes with sweet potato for a sweeter flavour and vibrant colour.
  • Bubble and Squeak with Ham — Stir through diced cooked ham to make the dish more substantial and protein-rich.
  • Caramelised Onion Bubble and Squeak — Add caramelised onions for richness and subtle sweetness.
  • Bubble and Squeak with Corned Beef — Mix in chopped corned beef for a traditional, filling variation that’s ideal for using up leftovers

Bubble and squeak

Traditional bubble and squeak combines golden, crispy potatoes with tender vegetables, creating a comforting British favourite that's perfect for using up leftover roast dinner ingredients
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Breakfast, Lunch
Cuisine British
Servings 2 people

Equipment

  • Bowl
  • frying pan

Ingredients
  

  • 15 g unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or a few sprays of fry light)
  • leftover mashed potato
  • leftover cabbage
  • pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes and cabbage and season.
  • In a large frying pan, heat the oil and butter. When the butter has melted, add a large spoonful of potato and cabbage, flatten down a little, like a pancake but not too thin. NOTE: Depending on how big you want your bubble and squeak, you could fry two at a time.
  • Fry for around 5mins on each side, until warmed through and golden on both sides Serve immediately.