Do you ever wish you had something to do with all the odds and ends in your refrigerator and freezer? You may think that a ½ cup of sour cream, some leftover chicken, and a handful of vegetables aren't good for anything, but think again! In fact, these few ingredients are the perfect beginning to a delicious casserole. Casseroles are not only a wonderful way to use up leftover ingredients, but they can save you a lot of money in the kitchen as well. This week, let's discuss turning those ingredients you would normally throw away into a delicious meal.

Anytime you prepare a whole chicken, roast, turkey breast, or even a ham, there's usually leftovers. You may not think there are enough left to do anything with, but just a few cups of chopped up meat are perfect for casseroles. The same goes for vegetables and other side dishes. The truth is that just about any type of leftovers can be turned into a delicious casserole. Take Mexican, for example.

Mexican Shepherd's Pie
Serves 4

4 large tortillas
2 cups of leftover taco meat
2 cups of leftover beans
2 cups of leftover Spanish rice
1 cup of salsa
1 cup of nacho cheese
1 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese

1. Line an 8 inch nonstick baking dish with two of the large tortillas.
2. In a large bowl, mix the meat, beans, rice, salsa, and nacho cheese until well combined.
3. Top with remaining tortillas and shredded cheese.
4. Bake at 350 degrees until the tortillas start to brown and the filling is hot, about 30 minutes.

It's just that simple. All you have to do is be creative. Instead of throwing away useful ingredients or serving your family the same meal two nights in a row, you can turn leftovers into something new and delicious. This is the perfect way to use up holiday leftovers, but why wait for the holidays? Open your fridge and freezer and see what's waiting to be used. Who knows, you may create a new family favorite.