Name: Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 1 pound lean ground beef; 2 eggs, whisked; 4 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari, divided; 2 teaspoons honey; Salt, pepper, and additional soy sauce to taste; 3 tablespoons butter or avocado oil, divided; 1/2 small white onion, small diced; 2 large carrots, small diced; 4 green onions, thinly sliced; 3/4 cup frozen green peas; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 4 cups cooked and cooled jasmine rice (preferably day-old)

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 13 reviews

If you’ve ever wanted to whip up a satisfying, flavorful meal that feels like a takeout favorite but comes together in your own kitchen with ease, this Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe is an absolute game changer. Loaded with tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, it’s a dish that brings comforting, savory goodness to your table in just about 40 minutes. The balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors makes each bite irresistible, and best of all, it’s simple enough for any home cook to master.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view shows various ingredients placed separately on a white marbled texture. There are two whole eggs in a small white bowl at the top left, bright orange diced carrots in a white bowl next to the eggs, and finely chopped white onion in a white bowl below the eggs. Beside the onions, three small yellow butter cubes rest on a small beige plate. A large brown bowl filled with fluffy white jasmine rice sits near the bottom center. Bright green frozen peas are in a white bowl to the bottom left of the rice. In the middle, there is a small beige bowl holding a yellowish paste labeled ginger and garlic. A small white jug containing dark sesame oil is next to the ginger and garlic bowl. To the right of the sesame oil, there is a small bowl with dark soy sauce and a smaller dish with honey beside it. Chopped green onions fill a patterned small bowl at the bottom right. A gray plate holding a square form of raw ground beef is near the top right. A tiny beige bowl with salt and pepper is above the beef. All items are neatly arranged with clear labels above or beside each. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe hinges on a handful of straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to build layers of flavor and texture. Each component—from the nutty sesame oil to the fresh green onions—plays a crucial role in turning humble staples into a vibrant, crowd-pleasing meal.

2 teaspoons sesame oil: Adds a distinct, toasty aroma that elevates the entire dish.
1 pound lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a satisfying, meaty bite.
4 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari, divided: Infuses the rice and beef with deep umami saltiness.
2 teaspoons honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
3 tablespoons butter or avocado oil, divided: Used for cooking and adding richness throughout.
2 eggs, whisked: Lightly scrambled to deliver moisture and silkiness.
1/2 of a small white onion, small diced: Offers a subtle crunch and sharpness.
2 large carrots, small diced: Brings a pop of color and natural sweetness.
4 green onions, thinly sliced: Adds freshness and mild onion flavor.
3/4 cup frozen green peas: Bursts of sweetness and vibrant green contrast.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: Infuses a fragrant savory kick.
4 cups cooked and cooled jasmine rice: The foundation—day-old rice is key for perfect texture.
Salt, pepper, and additional soy sauce to taste: For seasoning and tweaking flavors to your liking.

How to Make Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Begin by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even browning. Lightly season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. As the beef browns and cooks through, be sure to drain any excess grease for a cleaner, less oily dish. Then, introduce 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and the honey, allowing them to simmer and soak into the beef for 2 to 3 minutes. This step creates that rich, savory-sweet backbone that makes this recipe shine.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

Lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter or avocado oil to the empty skillet. Pour in the whisked eggs, gently stirring to scramble them just until set. These soft, fluffy eggs will add a luscious texture to the final dish. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside with the beef for later.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Carrots

Next, toss in another tablespoon of butter or oil and sauté the diced onion and carrots. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften nicely but still retain a slight bite. This step not only enhances their natural sweetness but also adds essential color contrast and crunch.

Step 4: Fry the Rice with Veggies

Add the last tablespoon of butter along with the green onions, frozen peas, minced garlic, and cooked jasmine rice to the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the rice fries evenly and picks up all those delicious flavors. This is where the rice gets that desirable slightly crispy texture that makes fried rice so addictive.

Step 5: Combine Beef, Eggs, and Seasonings

Return the cooked beef and eggs to the pan. Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and toss everything together gently but thoroughly. Heat everything through until steaming hot. Taste and adjust with additional soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed. Now you have a perfectly balanced, easy-to-love meal bursting with texture and flavor.

How to Serve Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe

A white pot filled with a mix of ingredients, showing four main layers: at the bottom left, small chopped orange carrots and light tan onions; on top of that, a small yellow pat of butter and a dollop of pale yellow minced garlic; on the right, a large layer of fluffy white rice covering about half the pot; and in the center, a mound of bright green frozen peas topped with chopped bright green scallion slices. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra sliced green onions or a few toasted sesame seeds on top before serving to add an extra layer of freshness and crunch. For a little heat, a drizzle of chili garlic oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes really kicks things up.

Side Dishes

This Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp Asian cucumber salad or steamed edamame. A bowl of miso soup or some quick pickled veggies would also complement the rich flavors and keep the meal feeling light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the fried rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or lettuce cups for a great finger-food option. Alternatively, topping it with a fried egg or crispy shallots gives your presentation a special touch that’s sure to impress guests or family alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making next-day reheating even tastier.

Freezing

This Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe freezes well if you want to keep portions for longer. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to revive the texture. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce can help keep the rice moist and flavorful. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Absolutely! While jasmine rice is recommended for its aroma and texture, you can use basmati or even brown rice. Just make sure it’s cooked and ideally cooled or day-old to prevent mushiness.

Is ground beef the best meat choice for this fried rice?

Ground beef works great here because it cooks quickly and mixes well with the rice, but feel free to swap it out for ground chicken, pork, or even diced steak based on what you prefer or have on hand.

How important is day-old rice?

Day-old rice is key to achieving that perfect fried rice texture. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and tends to clump together, whereas day-old rice dries out slightly, allowing it to fry up beautifully without getting mushy.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the beef and increase the veggies or add tofu for protein. Using vegetable broth when cooking rice and soy sauce ensures you keep all the savory goodness.

What can I add to boost flavor?

Adding a splash of oyster sauce or a dash of fish sauce can boost umami flavors. Fresh ginger or a squeeze of lime at the end can also brighten up the dish wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Beef Fried Rice Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels both comforting and exciting every time you make it. With straightforward ingredients and approachable steps, it’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Grab your skillet and dive in—you’re about to discover your new favorite go-to meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.