If you’re after a comforting, flavor-packed meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, look no further than this Beef Fried Rice Recipe. Tender strips of juicy beef, fluffy eggs, sweet peas and carrots, and aromatic garlic are all tossed with perfectly chewy, golden rice for a dish that tastes like your favorite takeout—only better and far fresher. Whether you’re craving something hearty on a weeknight or need a satisfying way to use up leftover rice, this Beef Fried Rice Recipe is a must-try for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newbies alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple, time-tested ingredients, each bite of this dish manages to pack in layers of taste and texture. Here’s why every element is absolutely essential for the best Beef Fried Rice Recipe at home:
- Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced (1 pound): Quick-cooking and tender for succulent beef bites every time.
- Soy sauce, divided (2 tablespoons): Brings savory depth and the essential salty kick to both the beef and rice.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle sweetness and rich umami flavor that sets this dish apart.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): A finishing touch for nutty aroma and authentic Asian flair.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the beef a gentle heat and enhances its deep flavor.
- Vegetable oil, divided (3 tablespoons): A neutral oil so everything cooks up golden and crisp without overpowering flavors.
- Cooked and chilled white rice (3 cups): Cold, day-old rice is the secret to grains that stay firm and separate—never soggy!
- Eggs, lightly beaten (2): Soft, wispy scrambled eggs give the rice creaminess and rich texture.
- Frozen peas and carrots, thawed (1 cup): Pops of color and a touch of sweetness make every forkful bright and appealing.
- Chopped green onions (1/2 cup): Added at the end for a fresh, zippy finish and splash of green.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): The aromatic foundation—don’t skip it!
- Salt to taste: The final seasoning to balance every bite—add as needed at the end.
How to Make Beef Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by tossing your sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper in a medium bowl. A quick 10–15 minutes is all it takes for those savory flavors to soak in and tenderize the meat while you prep everything else.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once shimmering, add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until it browns and just cooks through. Remove the beef to a plate so it stays tender while you build the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Still using the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble gently until just barely set—think soft curds rather than dry eggs. Remove and set aside; you’ll fold them back in at the end.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Veggies
Add your final tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in the thawed peas and carrots. Give them about 2 minutes to heat through and become vibrant.
Step 5: Fry the Rice
This step is where the fried rice magic happens! Push the veggies aside, add the chilled rice, and use the back of your spatula to break up any clumps. Pour over the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce and continue stir-frying everything together for 2–3 minutes until the rice is evenly coated and piping hot.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return the cooked beef and scrambled eggs to the pan, and toss everything together so the flavors meld. Sprinkle in the chopped green onions and give it another minute or two. Taste, season with a bit of salt if needed, and serve your Beef Fried Rice Recipe hot—dinner is ready!
How to Serve Beef Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your finished rice with extra sliced green onions for fresh crunch and color. For a touch of heat, add a few drops of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil just before serving can also add irresistible aroma and nuttiness.
Side Dishes
This Beef Fried Rice Recipe is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it truly shines with light and crisp sides like an Asian cucumber salad, steamed broccoli, or miso soup. A batch of crispy spring rolls or potstickers takes your meal to the next level for family-style feasts.
Creative Ways to Present
For an exciting twist, serve your fried rice in hollowed-out bell peppers or a carved-out pineapple half. Small bowls make it perfect for a party appetizer spread, while packing it into a bento box with extra veggies creates an Instagram-worthy lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any remaining Beef Fried Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let the rice cool to room temperature before refrigerating—it helps preserve texture and prevents sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, divide the cooled fried rice into freezer-safe bags. Flatten for faster thawing and pop in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thawed overnight in the fridge, it’s just as tasty as fresh-made!
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to a skillet and warm the rice over medium heat, stirring until heated through. You can also microwave it, just cover loosely and stir halfway to ensure even warming and prevent dry edges.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef?
Absolutely! Flank steak and sirloin are both wonderful, but you can also try ribeye, skirt steak, or even leftover roast beef. Just slice thinly and adjust cooking time as needed so it stays tender.
What’s the secret to non-soggy fried rice?
Day-old, chilled rice works best! Cold rice stays firm and allows each grain to fry up individually without turning mushy. Always fluff and separate the rice before adding to the pan for best texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, this Beef Fried Rice Recipe uses regular soy sauce and oyster sauce, which typically contain gluten. Simply swap in gluten-free versions and double-check all your sauces to make it safe for gluten sensitivities.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Toss in bell peppers, baby corn, bean sprouts, or even chopped spinach for extra veggies. Just be sure to sauté heartier vegetables a bit longer before adding the rice.
How can I make it spicy?
For a kick, add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or fresh diced chili peppers while stir-frying. Taste as you go so you get just the right level of heat for your family.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Beef Fried Rice Recipe enough! It’s quick, perfectly balanced, and downright craveable—plus, it’s a fantastic way to clear out your fridge and still end up with something completely satisfying. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when friends and family go back for seconds!
Print
Beef Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and satisfying Beef Fried Rice recipe that is quick and easy to make. Tender slices of beef, mixed with veggies, eggs, and flavorful seasonings, all combined with fluffy rice for a perfect one-pan meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce, divided
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cups cooked and chilled white rice
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Marinated Beef:
Other Ingredients:
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, toss sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Marinate for 10–15 minutes.
- Cook Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over high heat. Cook marinated beef for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Scramble Eggs: In the same pan, cook beaten eggs until just set. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Veggies: Add oil to the pan, stir-fry garlic for 30 seconds. Add peas and carrots, cook for 2 minutes.
- Add Rice: Stir in chilled rice, breaking clumps. Add remaining soy sauce, cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return beef and eggs to the pan, toss together. Stir in green onions. Cook for 1–2 more minutes.
- Serve: Hot.
Notes
- Chilled, day-old rice works best to avoid sogginess.
- Add hoisin or sriracha for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
