Beef Fried Rice
⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 15 minutes
There’s something magical about the smoky, savory aroma of fried rice hitting a hot pan. This steak fried rice is my throwback to those giant takeout containers I used to devour as a kid—when every bite had just enough egg, soy sauce, and crispy rice. This version brings all those cozy vibes back, but with even more flavor and a little more steak.
Tender beef strips, fluffy egg, sweet peas and carrots, and perfectly seasoned rice
I don’t know about you, but when I was a kid, fried rice was the comfort food. It didn’t matter if it came with chopsticks or a plastic fork — the smell alone meant dinner was going to be amazing. This recipe takes all the best parts of that classic dish and upgrades it just a bit. I like to use day-old jasmine rice (super important for that fluffy, non-mushy texture!) and thinly sliced flank or skirt steak marinated just long enough to soak in the flavor.
One trick that makes a huge difference? Cooking each part separately before tossing it all together at the end. It keeps everything from getting soggy and lets the veggies stay crisp, the eggs stay fluffy, and the rice get those glorious crispy bits. A splash of sesame oil and a whisper of garlic? Chef’s kiss. And don’t skip the green onions — they bring it home with just the right hit of freshness.
This is the kind of meal that comes together fast but tastes like it took a lot more effort. It’s great for weeknights, or even better as leftovers (if you somehow don’t eat it all in one sitting). Whether you’re feeding your family or just craving a big bowl of something satisfying and familiar, this steak fried rice brings all the warm, takeout-style nostalgia right to your kitchen.
🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 520
Ingredients
2 cups cold cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
8 oz flank or skirt steak, thinly sliced into strips
1 tbsp soy sauce (for marinating steak)
½ tsp sesame oil (for marinating steak)
2 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or vegetable), divided
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
½ cup frozen peas, thawed
½ cup diced carrots
½ cup yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce (for rice)
1 tsp oyster sauce (optional, but recommended)
½ tsp sesame oil (for finishing)
¼ tsp white pepper (or black pepper)
2 green onions, chopped
Steps
Step 1
In a small bowl, toss steak strips with 1 tbsp soy sauce and ½ tsp sesame oil. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Step 2
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large wok or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak and cook for about 2-3 minutes until just browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 3
In the same pan, add the beaten eggs and scramble quickly until just set. Remove and set aside with the steak.
Step 4
Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the pan. Sauté the onions, carrots, and peas for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 5
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 6
Add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Let it sit for a minute or two to crisp slightly.
Step 7
Return the steak and eggs to the pan. Add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp oyster sauce, ½ tsp sesame oil, and white pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
Step 8
Stir in the chopped green onions right before serving.
Make it your own!
🥩 Try a different protein
Swap the steak for shrimp, chicken, or tofu — same method, same deliciousness.🍳 Boost the umami
Add a dash of fish sauce or a spoonful of miso paste to deepen the savory flavor.🥕 Veggie boost
Toss in diced bell peppers, bean sprouts, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.🌶️ Crank the heat
Add a chopped chili or a drizzle of chili oil if you like it spicy!🍚 No day-old rice?
Spread fresh rice on a baking sheet and chill it in the fridge or freezer for 20–30 minutes before cooking.
Try it with…
Did you make this recipe?
Did you add a unique twist? Did your family enjoy it? Share your thoughts and any customizations you made in the comments below.
Don't forget to tag me on Instagram @chompionsblog and use the hashtag #chompions
