Beef Fried Rice

Beef fried rice
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There’s something magical about a sizzling pan of fried rice, it’s warm, flavorful, and so easy to make! Beef fried rice is one of those dishes that can turn an ordinary day into something special.

Whether you’re rushing to put dinner on the table or looking for a way to use up leftover rice, this recipe has you covered.

I remember the first time I tried making fried rice. It was a rainy evening, and the smell of soy sauce and garlic filling the kitchen made everything feel so cozy.

With beef fried rice, you get the perfect mix of hearty protein, fresh veggies, and fragrant rice, all tossed together in one amazing dish.

This recipe is perfect year-round, but it’s especially great in January when many of us are looking for quick, satisfying meals after the holiday rush. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or spice it up to suit your taste.


Why You’ll Love It

Beef fried rice isn’t just delicious—it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights! Here are some reasons you’ll adore this recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you need something fast but still homemade.
  • Customizable: You can add whatever veggies or sauces you love, making it easy to use what you already have in your fridge.
  • Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients like leftover rice, ground beef, and soy sauce, it’s a meal that won’t break the bank.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your meal!
  • Packed with Flavor: Each bite is a perfect combination of savory beef, tender rice, and crunchy vegetables.

Ingredient List

For the Fried Rice:

  • 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably cold)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed vegetables)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds

This recipe keeps it simple but packs in all the flavor you could ask for. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, you’re ready to create a meal the whole family will love!

More Recipes >>>>>> Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe


Kitchen Tools Needed

To make beef fried rice, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:

  • Large skillet or wok: Perfect for stir-frying everything together.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and tossing the ingredients.
  • Cutting board and knife: To chop the vegetables and onion.
  • Mixing bowls: To beat the eggs and prepare other ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons and cups: For precise ingredient measurements.

Cooking Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • If you haven’t already, cook the rice and let it cool completely (cold rice works best for fried rice).
    • Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop any fresh vegetables you’re using.
  2. Cook the Beef:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
    • Add the ground beef or beef strips and cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
    • Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
    • Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables.
    • Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender.
  4. Scramble the Eggs:
    • Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet.
    • Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and cook, stirring gently, until scrambled.
    • Mix the eggs with the veggies.
  5. Combine Everything:
    • Add the cooked beef back to the skillet, followed by the cold rice.
    • Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and black pepper.
    • Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated and heated through.
  6. Finish and Serve:
    • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
    • Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.
    • Serve hot and enjoy!

More Recipes >>>>>> Easy Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe

hot skillet of beef fried rice

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Use Cold Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to clump together. For the best texture, use rice that has been refrigerated for a few hours or overnight.
  • Prep Before You Cook: Stir-frying happens quickly, so make sure all your ingredients are chopped and ready before you start cooking.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet is too small, cook the ingredients in batches to ensure everything gets evenly cooked.
  • Customize to Your Taste: Swap out beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini.
  • Control the Saltiness: Soy sauce and oyster sauce are salty, so taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Turn Up the Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about beef fried rice is how adaptable it is! Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

  • Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • Beef: Use chicken, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh as a protein alternative.
  • Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and variety.
  • Soy Sauce: If you’re avoiding soy, use tamari or coconut aminos for a similar flavor.
  • Egg-Free: Skip the eggs for a vegetarian or vegan version. You can also use chickpea flour batter as a substitute for scrambled eggs.
  • Spices and Sauces: Add ginger, chili flakes, or a splash of fish sauce for extra depth of flavor.

Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand—this dish is incredibly forgiving!

More Recipes >>>>>> Cajun Shrimp And Rice Skillet


Serving Suggestions

Beef fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to make it even more special:

  • With a Side Dish: Serve with egg rolls, spring rolls, or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • As Part of a Feast: Pair it with sweet and sour chicken, sesame broccoli, or miso soup for an Asian-inspired dinner.
  • Toppings: Garnish with chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flavor.

This dish is versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings with friends!

a plate of beef fried rice

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage:

  • Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze the fried rice in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

  • On the Stove: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Stir-fry the rice until it’s warmed through.
  • In the Microwave: Place a portion of rice in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Frozen Rice: Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from the freezer using the methods above.

Tip: Add a little water or soy sauce while reheating to keep the rice from drying out.

More Recipes >>>>>> Tasty Chicken And Rice Skillet Recipe


FAQ

Q: Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of cold rice?
A: Yes, but freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky. Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before using.

Q: What type of beef works best?
A: Ground beef is quick and easy, but thinly sliced steak (like flank or sirloin) adds a more luxurious touch.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: It can be! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and make sure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Use tofu or tempeh instead of beef, skip the eggs, and use plant-based sauces.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use a large wok or skillet to ensure even cooking. You might need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Beef fried rice is simple, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again!

This dish is a good source of protein, but the sodium level can be high due to the soy sauce. You can adjust the sodium by using a low-sodium soy sauce if preferred. It provides a balanced combination of carbs, protein, and fat, making it a satisfying meal.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

Beef fried rice

Beef Fried Rice

This recipe is perfect year-round, but it’s especially great in January when many of us are looking for quick, satisfying meals after the holiday rush. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or spice it up to suit your taste.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Wok
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Cutting Board and Knife
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups

Ingredients
  

For the Fried Rice:

  • 3 cups cooked white rice preferably cold
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots or any mixed vegetables
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce optional
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ingredients:

  • If you haven’t already, cook the rice and let it cool completely (cold rice works best for fried rice).
  • Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop any fresh vegetables you’re using.

Cook the Beef:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef or beef strips and cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
  • Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender.

Scramble the Eggs:

  • Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet.
  • Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and cook, stirring gently, until scrambled.
  • Mix the eggs with the veggies.

Combine Everything:

  • Add the cooked beef back to the skillet, followed by the cold rice.
  • Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and black pepper.
  • Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated and heated through.

Finish and Serve:

  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

This dish is a good source of protein, but the sodium level can be high due to the soy sauce. You can adjust the sodium by using a low-sodium soy sauce.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400-450 kcal
  • Protein: 25-30g
  • Carbohydrates: 45-50g
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugar: 3-5g
  • Sodium: 700-900mg
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword beef fried rice, ground beef recipes

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