Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ground Beef Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This easy recipe combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a savory soy-based sauce. It’s a great way to use leftover rice and can be customized with your favorite add-ins for a delicious homemade meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- Eggs
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Carrots (diced)
- Peas
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce (optional)
- Sesame oil
- Green onions (chopped, for garnish)
- Vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain any excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and peas, sautéing until tender.
- Push the mixture to one side of the pan and scramble the eggs on the other side until fully cooked.
- Stir everything together, then add the cooked rice and mix well.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil, stirring until evenly coated.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
- Different Protein: Swap ground beef for chicken, pork, or shrimp.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in water chestnuts or chopped bell peppers for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Yes, but day-old rice works best to prevent mushiness. If using fresh rice, spread it out to cool before cooking.
What vegetables can I add?
You can add bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, or any veggies you prefer.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Use a non-stick pan and stir frequently while cooking.
Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, cook the beef using the sauté function, then stir in the other ingredients before serving.
Can I add cheese to this dish?
While not traditional, shredded cheese can add a creamy element to the dish.
How do I make it less salty?
Use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust to taste.
What type of ground beef should I use?
Lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) works best to avoid excess grease.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the beef and rice separately and assemble just before serving.
What can I serve with fried rice?
It pairs well with egg rolls, dumplings, or a side of steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Fried Rice is a simple and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and easy to customize. Try it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy a homemade takeout-style dish!
PrintGround Beef Fried Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
This hearty and savory fried rice is packed with seasoned ground beef, tender veggies, and fluffy rice—all stir-fried in a flavorful soy-based sauce. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and makes for an easy weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed veggies)
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, cold rice)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or more to taste)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp sesame oil (for finishing)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté Aromatics & Veggies: Push the beef to one side. Add the remaining oil, then sauté onion, garlic, and frozen veggies for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Scramble the Eggs: Push everything to the side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until fully cooked, then mix with the beef and veggies.
- Add Rice & Seasonings: Stir in the cold rice, breaking up any clumps. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and salt. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes until well combined.
- Finish & Serve: Drizzle with sesame oil, stir, and garnish with green onions. Serve hot!
Notes
- Make it spicy: Add Sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh rice carefully: If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet to cool for 15-20 minutes before frying.
- Extra protein: Add shrimp, chicken, or tofu for variety.
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
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