Ground Beef Fried Rice

This Ground Beef Fried Rice is a quick, easy, and flavorful one-pan meal, packed with tender beef, fluffy rice, eggs, and savory seasonings. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, made in just 20 minutes, using ingredients you probably already have!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy – Ready in 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Budget-friendly – Uses ground beef and pantry staples.
• Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or spice it up!
• Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
• One-pan meal – Less cleanup, more flavor!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups cooked rice (cold, day-old rice works best)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula (about 5 minutes).
3. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics & Veggies

1. Push the beef to one side of the pan.
2. Add onion and garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in frozen vegetables and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

1. Push everything to the side and pour in the beaten eggs.
2. Scramble until fully cooked, then mix with the beef and veggies.

Step 4: Add the Rice & Seasonings

1. Add cold, cooked rice to the skillet and stir everything together.
2. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, letting the rice absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with green onions.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Beef Fried Rice – Add 1 tbsp Sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
• Teriyaki Version – Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce.
• Extra Protein – Add shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
• Vegetable-Packed – Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Low-Carb Option – Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of soy sauce, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

Yes, but day-old rice is best because it’s drier and won’t turn mushy.

What’s the best ground beef for fried rice?

Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to avoid excess grease.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

How do I prevent my rice from sticking to the pan?

Use cold rice and a hot pan, and stir frequently.

Can I make this without eggs?

Yes! Just skip the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu.

What’s the best oil for fried rice?

Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or sesame oil for great flavor.

How do I make it extra crispy?

Let the rice sit undisturbed for 1-2 minutes before stirring to get crispy bits.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes! Try adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy twist.

What can I serve with this fried rice?

Pair with spring rolls, dumplings, or an Asian-inspired salad.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just use a large skillet or wok to prevent overcrowding.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Fried Rice is a quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal, packed with savory flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you make it spicy, cheesy, or loaded with veggies, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Try it today and enjoy homemade takeout in minutes!

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