I’m definitely no food critic, but if I know anything, it’s that the best part of eating is having leftovers. With leftovers, it’s like having two meals in one. It’s almost like I purposely try not to finish a meal because then I can have the satisfaction of knowing that I'll find leftovers in the fridge tomorrow afternoon. With that being said, there are some foods that reign supreme in the leftover department. Here is the definitive list of foods that are great the first day, but even better the next:

8. Barbecue ribs.

It’s nearly impossible to eat an entire rack of ribs by yourself, so pack up whatever you don't finish in the first attempt. Ribs have the unique quality to be eaten again during the same day, or saved for the next day, so this leftover option shows a lot of versatility.

Recommended reheat: Make sure to use the oven and steer clear of the microwave, as it may make the ribs soggy. Grab a napkin and enjoy!

Leftover rating: 6/10

7. Chili/stew.

Sometimes bowls of chili/stew at restaurants are big enough to feed an entire village, so your server should not be surprised when you ask for a to-go cup. Although it may be difficult to transport home, the journey will be worth it.

Recommended reheat: Pour the chili/stew out of the to-go receptacle and pour into your own bowl. Microwave until hot, but not too hot.

Leftover rating: 6.5/10

6. Meatloaf.

Meatloaf isn’t for everyone, but it should be. This is one of the few home-cooked meals that made the list, so obviously it's pretty special. I’m perfectly aware that meatloaf can be a nightmare for some people, but don’t judge it until you try it on day two.

Recommended reheat: Put in the microwave for about a minute. Grab a hamburger bun and make yourself a meatloaf sandwich. You’re welcome.

Leftover rating: 7/10

5. Pad Thai.

Pad Thai is once again served in a portion that is way too big for human consumption, and I feel like Thai restaurants know this. It's especially important to keep in mind when ordering that this meal will be your meal for the next two days, so make it a good one. Pad Thai will never fail you. Trust me.

Recommended reheat: About one or two minutes in the microwave should do the trick. Feel free to add sauce if it’s too dry. Chopsticks are encouraged, but a fork works too.

Leftover rating: 7.5/10

4. Chinese take-out.

Chinese take-out makes for killer leftovers because no matter what you order, it’s going to be delicious the next day. Chinese restaurants are always open when nothing else is, and this aspect does not go unnoticed. The prime-time for Chinese food/leftovers is around the holidays. I can always count on my close friend, Panda Express, to be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Recommended reheat: Microwave all the way. Don’t waste time on the oven or stove.

Leftover rating: 8/10

3. Italian food in general.

If you’ve never had leftover lasagna, you haven’t lived. Lasagna is one of those foods that’s arguably better on the second day. Spaghetti, a close cousin of lasagna, is also a star in the leftover world, and shouldn’t go without recognition. Essentially, all Italian leftover food tickles the taste buds.

Recommended reheat: A minute in the microwave should do it. Any longer than that and you are at risk of watery sauce and sad looking pasta. Also, make sure to eat it the second day, because any time after that is pushing the limits.

Leftover rating: 8.5/10

2. Pizza.

When asking around as to what food makes a great leftover, pizza always comes in as a top contender, and I can’t disagree. I purposely order a size larger of my desired pizza so that I can save some for later. Leftover pizza makes for a great dinner, lunch, snack or for some, breakfast. Leftover pizza is like a friend; it’s comforting and is always there for you. It holds a special spot in my heart and is there for me in the hardest of times.Recommended reheat: I recommend 30 seconds in the microwave, but if you’re really hard-core, you can eat it cold. Leftover rating: 9/10

1. Thanksgiving food.

This crème de la crème of leftovers only comes once a year. I think Macy’s should not throw the parade in honor of Thanksgiving, but in honor of its leftovers. My favorite part of Thanksgiving dinner is when it’s over because this means that the food can start taking its perfect form and preparing for the next four times I'm going to eat it. Thinking about leftover turkey and mashed potatoes makes me want to shed a tear. If the refrigerator had a throne, Thanksgiving leftovers would sit in it and look upon its peasants.

Recommended reheat: This one's all up to you. Some prefer it cold, some prefer it hot and some prefer it in a sandwich. No matter how you do it, it’s the right way.

Leftover rating: 11/10

And that concludes the list of leftovers. Did I miss your favorite? Comment below.