Name: Beef Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or flank steak, thinly sliced; 2 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn); 2 eggs, lightly beaten; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and seasoned rice, all cooked in one pan. It’s a versatile meal that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and sauces. Whether you’re using leftover rice or cooking fresh, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef or flank steak, thinly sliced
2 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

directions

Prepare the Beef: If using flank steak, marinate the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and a pinch of salt for about 10 minutes. If using ground beef, season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Scramble the Eggs: In the same skillet, add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside with the beef.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Cook until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
Add Beef and Eggs: Return the cooked beef and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Spicy: Add chili garlic sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Additional Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of soy sauce or water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

Yes, but day-old rice works best as it’s drier and less likely to become mushy.

Can I freeze beef fried rice?

Yes, allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What type of beef is best for this recipe?

Flank steak or sirloin are great choices due to their tenderness and flavor.

Can I add other sauces?

Feel free to experiment with hoisin sauce, fish sauce, or teriyaki sauce for different flavor profiles.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh and ensure the sauces are vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

Beef Fried Rice is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together tender beef, flavorful rice, and a medley of vegetables. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover rice and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire