This easy beef fried rice is perfect for dinner when you’re short on time! Packed with tender beef, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s both tasty and filling.
What I love most is how quickly it comes together. Just stir-fry everything in one pan, and you’ve got a delicious meal! Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers. 🥡
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Day-old rice works best since it’s drier and won’t get mushy. If you forget to prepare it in advance, you can cook fresh rice, spread it out to cool, and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
Beef: I like sirloin for its flavor, but flank steak is also great. If you want a leaner option, you can use chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian take. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Vegetables: I use frozen peas and carrots for convenience. If you have fresh veggies like bell peppers or bok choy, feel free to chop them up and add instead. You can mix and match based on what you have!
Eggs: They add protein and texture. For a vegan option, you can skip the eggs or use scrambled tofu as a substitute to maintain some protein in the dish.
How Do I Make Sure My Fried Rice Isn’t Mushy?
A common problem with fried rice is ending up with a soggy mess. To avoid this, always start with day-old rice if possible. Here’s how to keep it fluffy:
- Ensure the rice is fully cooled as hot rice can turn mushy when cooked.
- When adding the rice to the skillet, break up any clumps gently with a spoon.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it really helps the rice fry evenly and not steam.
- Cook on high heat to give that nice slightly crispy texture.
Following these tips, you’ll have fried rice that’s perfectly fluffy and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Easy Beef Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 8 oz beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots mix
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for flavor)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy beef fried rice takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, making a total of around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef, lightly season it with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Scramble the Eggs:
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary, and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them gently for a minute or so until just cooked. Remove and place them with the beef for now.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 2 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, throw in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking until they are heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Mix in the Rice:
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking apart any clumps, and mix everything well to combine. This step is key to ensuring that all ingredients meld together nicely.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef and scrambled eggs back into the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly until well combined.
6. Add the Sauce:
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well to coat the rice evenly with the sauce. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes over high heat to allow the rice to get a little crispy on the bottom if you like. Yummy!
7. Taste & Serve:
Give your fried rice a taste and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, salt, or pepper if needed. Once it’s to your liking, remove it from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade beef fried rice! It’s quick, easy, and so satisfying!
Can I Use Leftover Rice for This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, using day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and less likely to become mushy when fried. If you have freshly cooked rice, let it cool down completely and spread it out on a baking sheet for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Beef?
If you prefer a different protein, chicken, shrimp, or even tofu are great alternatives! Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly for the proteins to ensure they are cooked through.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on the stove with a little splash of water or broth to help revive the flavors and moisture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini. Just chop them up and sauté them along with the onions before adding the rice. Mix and match based on your preferences!
