This Easy Beef Fried Rice is a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy weeknights! With juicy beef, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s a satisfying dish that comes together in no time.
I love how I can throw everything in one pan, and it’s done in a flash. Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family—who can resist that yummy flavor? 🍚🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Day-old cooked white rice is best for fried rice, as it’s drier and helps prevent clumping. If you don’t have day-old, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool and dry a bit before using. Brown rice can be a healthier option but will change the dish’s texture.
Beef: Sirloin and flank steak are great for this recipe thanks to their tenderness. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, ground beef or even chicken can work well too. For a meat-free meal, try tofu or tempeh!
Vegetables: Carrots and peas are traditional, but feel free to mix it up! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas add flavor and color. Just chop them into small pieces for quick cooking!
Eggs: Eggs add richness, but you can skip them if you’re avoiding animal products or want a lighter dish. Just add a bit more vegetables to keep it flavorful.
Sauces: Soy sauce adds the salty umami flavor typical in fried rice. Low-sodium soy sauce is a good substitute if you’re watching your salt intake. Skip the oyster sauce if you’re vegetarian or vegan.
How Do I Get My Fried Rice Perfectly Fluffy?
Achieving fluffy fried rice is all about preparation and technique. Here are my best tips:
- Use Cold Rice: Cold, day-old rice works best because it’s less sticky. If using fresh rice, spread it out to cool before frying.
- Cook in Batches: If you have a lot of ingredients, cook in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan – this ensures everything fries evenly.
- High Heat is Key: Cook on medium-high heat. This helps everything fry up quickly and prevents steaming, which can make your rice mushy.
- Keep It Moving: Stir the rice regularly to prevent burning and promote even cooking.
Follow these suggestions, and you’ll have perfectly fluffy beef fried rice every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Beef Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 8 oz beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small carrot, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Beef Fried Rice recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes of cooking time. So you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes total, making it a quick and effortless dinner solution for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Scramble the Eggs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re set. Once done, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
2. Cook the Beef:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Next, add the thinly sliced beef and stir-fry until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Using the same skillet, add the diced onion, the white parts of the green onions, and the minced garlic. Cook these ingredients for 1-2 minutes, stirring until the garlic is fragrant and the onions become translucent.
4. Add Vegetables:
Now, toss in the diced carrot and frozen peas. Stir-fry the mixture for about 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
5. Combine Rice and Ingredients:
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir everything together, breaking up any clumps of rice so it mixes well with the vegetables.
6. Add Beef and Eggs:
Return the cooked beef and scrambled eggs to the skillet, gently stirring to combine with the rice and vegetables.
7. Season the Dish:
Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir everything well to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauces.
8. Final Touches:
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Adjust if needed, then remove the skillet from heat.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with the green parts of the sliced green onions and serve your delicious beef fried rice hot. Enjoy this satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Enjoy your quick and savory beef fried rice that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
FAQ About Easy Beef Fried Rice
Can I Use Leftover Rice for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is actually best for fried rice because it’s drier and won’t clump together. If you only have freshly cooked rice, allow it to cool completely and spread it out on a baking sheet to dry slightly before using.
What Other Proteins Can I Use Besides Beef?
You can easily substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; chicken and shrimp may need a little more, while tofu can be cooked until heated through.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of water can help to prevent it from drying out!
Can I Make This Recipe More Veggie-Packed?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini. Just chop them into small, even pieces and sauté them along with the carrots and peas. This not only adds more nutrients but also enhances the color and flavor of the dish!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions while cooking! Happy frying!
