Beef fried rice is one of those simple yet incredibly satisfying dishes that captures the essence of comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious way to repurpose leftover rice, this dish has got you covered. The best part? It’s customizable with whatever ingredients you have on hand. I love whipping up this beef fried rice when I’m short on time but still want to impress my family with a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes beef fried rice such a staple in my kitchen? For one, it’s straightforward and quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a balanced meal that pleases everyone at the table. And let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a dish that’s loaded with tender beef, fresh veggies, and flavorful rice? It’s budget-friendly, especially if you use day-old rice, and it’s a fantastic way to get kids involved in cooking while they help with the chopping and stirring.
“I never thought fried rice could taste this good! I made it for my family last week, and they couldn’t get enough. Will definitely be a regular in our meal rotation!” — Jenna, happy home cook
The cooking process explained
Creating beef fried rice might seem a little daunting if you’re not an experienced cook, but fear not! The process is straightforward and can be broken down into easy-to-follow steps. You’ll first quickly stir-fry the beef, followed by sautéing the vegetables, and then combining everything together with that delicious cold rice. The key is to keep your ingredients prepped ahead of time for a seamless cooking experience.
What you’ll need
- 1 lb beef (sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced)
- 3–4 cups cooked rice (cold, preferably day-old)
- 1–2 tbsp oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut)
- ½–1 cup onion (diced)
- ½–1 cup carrots (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½–1 cup peas (frozen)
- 2–3 tbsp soy sauce
- Optional: splash of beef broth, black pepper, sesame oil
Feel free to switch out the vegetables based on what’s in your fridge or your personal preferences! Zucchini or bell peppers can easily take the place of carrots, and a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds can add an extra layer of flavor.
