🍚 Fried Rice with Ground Beef and Vegetables
Easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor — this is fried rice reimagined with a comforting twist!
Fried rice doesn’t have to be fancy to be delicious. This version with savory ground beef, crisp-tender vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice is the ultimate fridge-cleanout meal — and a total crowd-pleaser. Even better? It comes together in under 30 minutes using ingredients you probably already have on hand.
🧂 Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and cold for best texture)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, corn — fresh or frozen)
- 2 eggs, beaten (optional, for extra protein and richness)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but adds depth)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Green onions or sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
🔥 Instructions:
1. Brown the beef:
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil and cook the ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat if needed and push the beef to one side of the skillet.
2. Cook aromatics:
Add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Add vegetables:
Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender (if using frozen, thaw slightly before adding).
4. Scramble the eggs (optional):
Push everything to one side and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan. Scramble gently until just set, then mix into the beef and veggies.
5. Add rice and sauces:
Add the cold, cooked rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with a spatula and mix everything together. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
6. Serve and garnish:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Best rice: Use day-old rice straight from the fridge — it fries better without becoming mushy.
- Vegetable swap: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli — whatever you have!
- Make it spicy: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili oil for heat.
- Low-carb option: Substitute with cauliflower rice!
📌 Quick Facts:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: ~420 kcal per serving (varies with ingredients)
This Fried Rice with Ground Beef is everything we love in a comfort meal — fast, flavorful, filling, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or cleaning out your fridge, this dish hits the spot every single time!
