This Easy Beef Fried Rice is a tasty meal that comes together in just one pan! With tender beef, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s perfect for busy nights.
I love making this dish when I want something delicious but quick. It’s so simple to toss everything in the pan and let it cook—plus, my family always loves it! 🍚🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked White Rice: Day-old rice is best because it’s dryer and less sticky. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice and spread it on a baking sheet to cool for about 30 minutes.
Beef: I like using flank steak for its tenderness, but you can also use sirloin or even ground beef. For a leaner option, try chicken or tofu instead!
Vegetable Oil: While any neutral oil works great, I prefer using sesame oil for an added nutty flavor. Just use less, as it has a stronger taste.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies are super convenient. You can also use fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to bring more crunch and flavor.
Eggs: For a vegetarian option, skip the eggs or substitute with scrambled tofu. It adds protein to the dish!
How Do I Get My Fried Rice Perfectly Stir-Fried?
Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking! Here’s how to nail it:
- Use a large skillet or wok to give everything enough space to cook evenly.
- Heat your oil before adding ingredients. This prevents sticking and promotes a nice sear.
- Keep everything moving in the pan to avoid burning. Use a spatula to toss and mix constantly.
- Adding cooked rice that’s been spread out helps separate the grains for that perfect fried rice texture.
- Don’t be afraid to let the rice sit a little longer in the pan to achieve that crispy texture.
With these tips and ingredients, your beef fried rice will be a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy! 🍽️
Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe for Quick Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fried Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 8 ounces beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
- 2-3 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick beef fried rice takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef to the hot pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Then, sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using) for about 2 minutes, or until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, throw in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re tender and heated through. Stir occasionally to keep everything cooking evenly.
4. Scramble the Eggs:
Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, pour in the beaten eggs. Let the eggs cook for a minute, then scramble them gently until they’re just set. Mix everything together when done.
5. Mix in the Rice and Beef:
Now, add the cooked rice along with the cooked beef back into the skillet. Stir everything together, breaking up any clumps of rice, to ensure it’s well mixed.
6. Season and Finish Cooking:
Pour the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Keep cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until everything is heated through and the rice starts getting crispy!
7. Season and Garnish:
Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot.
Enjoy your quick and delicious beef fried rice dinner! It’s a fun, flavorful dish that everyone will love! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Beef Fried Rice
Can I Use Leftover Rice for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is actually preferred because it’s firmer and less sticky, giving you that perfect fried rice texture. If using fresh rice, make sure to cool it completely before frying.
What if I Don’t Have All the Ingredients?
No worries! You can substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Similarly, any mix of vegetables you have on hand can work—just chop them up and throw them in!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce, often labeled as tamari. Ensure your mixed vegetables and any other sauces you use are also gluten-free for a complete dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or stir-fry it in a pan with a splash of water to bring back some moisture.
Feel free to try this handy recipe, and don’t hesitate to customize it based on your preferences! Enjoy! 🌟
