If you’re looking for a savory, satisfying dish that can be prepared quickly and easily, Bacon Fried Rice is the perfect solution. With its combination of crispy turkey bacon, tender rice, vegetables, and savory seasonings, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, preparing a meal for friends, or just craving a delicious one-pan meal, this Bacon Fried Rice will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make perfect Bacon Fried Rice, from the ingredients and instructions to some helpful tips and variations. Let’s dive into why this simple yet flavorful dish deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love Bacon Fried Rice

Bacon Fried Rice is an easy-to-make recipe that combines the best of both worlds: hearty bacon and a classic Asian fried rice dish. The turkey bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor to the rice, while the sautéed vegetables and scrambled eggs give it texture and a burst of flavor. The savory soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil tie everything together, making it a balanced and flavorful dish.

The beauty of Bacon Fried Rice lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover rice, veggies, or even proteins. Plus, it’s quick and can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Bacon Fried Rice

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Bacon Fried Rice. Most of these ingredients are staples in many kitchens, and they come together to create the perfect combination of flavors.

Main Ingredients:

6 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, chopped
The turkey bacon provides a savory, smoky flavor with a crisp texture. It’s a great alternative to traditional bacon and adds a lighter touch to the dish.
1/2 large onion, diced
The onion adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the dish. Its flavor becomes mellow and aromatic when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic brings depth and an irresistible fragrance that complements the other ingredients.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
These vegetables are essential in fried rice, adding a pop of color and a subtle sweetness. You can also swap these for other vegetables like bell peppers or corn if you prefer.
4 cups cooked and cooled long-grain rice (preferably day-old)
Cold, day-old rice works best for fried rice because it holds its shape better and gives the dish a nice texture. You can use jasmine or basmati rice for extra fragrance.
3 large eggs, beaten
Eggs are a key component of fried rice, adding richness and texture to the dish.
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Soy sauce is the key to bringing saltiness and umami to the dish. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you want to reduce the salt content.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
Oyster sauce adds a sweet and savory complexity that enhances the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Sesame oil imparts a nutty, aromatic flavor to the dish, giving it an authentic fried rice taste.
Salt and pepper to taste
Season to taste with salt and pepper for a balanced and well-seasoned dish.
2 green onions, chopped
Fresh green onions provide a bright, fresh flavor that adds a nice contrast to the richness of the bacon and rice.

How to Make Bacon Fried Rice

Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s break down the process of making this Bacon Fried Rice. It’s a simple, straightforward recipe that can be prepared in just a few easy steps.

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by cooking the chopped turkey bacon in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure that the bacon cooks evenly and becomes nice and crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. This crispy bacon will add a wonderful crunch and smoky flavor to your fried rice.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, using the leftover bacon grease, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them over medium heat until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. The garlic should also become fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Rice

Next, stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are heated through. Then, add the cooked and cooled rice. Break up any clumps of rice with a spatula and stir everything together. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure that the rice is evenly heated and absorbs the flavors from the bacon and vegetables.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

Once the rice and vegetables are nicely mixed, push everything to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the skillet and scramble them until they are fully cooked. Once the eggs are scrambled, mix them with the rice and vegetables. This will add a creamy texture and a light richness to the fried rice.

Step 5: Season the Rice

Now it’s time to season the fried rice. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure that the rice is evenly coated with the sauces. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix in the crispy bacon that you set aside earlier. Finally, add the chopped green onions for a burst of freshness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, your Bacon Fried Rice is ready to serve! This dish can be served on its own as a main course or paired with your favorite protein, such as chicken, shrimp, or beef.

Tips for Perfect Bacon Fried Rice

To make sure your Bacon Fried Rice turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

Use Day-Old Rice: For the best texture, use rice that’s been cooked and cooled, ideally leftover from the day before. Fresh rice tends to be too soft and sticky, while day-old rice is firmer and works better for fried rice.
Cook Bacon in Batches: If you want the bacon to stay crispy, cook it in batches. This will help ensure that it doesn’t become soggy in the pan.
Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap the peas and carrots for any other veggies you have on hand. Bell peppers, corn, or even broccoli would all work great in this recipe.
Add Protein: If you want to make this dish more filling, add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef. This will turn it into a complete meal.
Adjust the Seasoning: If you prefer a saltier dish, feel free to add more soy sauce. If you like it spicier, try adding some chili flakes or sriracha sauce.

Nutritional Benefits of Bacon Fried Rice

While Bacon Fried Rice is undeniably delicious, it’s also a relatively balanced meal. The turkey bacon provides protein, while the rice gives you a good amount of carbs for energy. The vegetables (peas and carrots) add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a well-rounded option for those who want something tasty and nutritious.

Of course, like any dish, Bacon Fried Rice should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you’re looking to reduce the calories, you can easily swap out some of the ingredients, such as using less bacon or opting for a lower-sodium soy sauce.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you love Bacon Fried Rice, you’ll enjoy these delicious, savory recipes that also feature bacon or similar cooking methods:

Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes – These crispy roasted potatoes are made with sweet honey and savory bacon, perfect as a side dish or snack.
Seven-Layer Chicken Burritos – A satisfying and flavorful burrito layered with chicken, cheese, and all your favorite toppings.
One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini – A hearty, cheesy one-pot meal featuring chicken, sausage, and rotini pasta in a ranch-seasoned sauce.

FAQs About Bacon Fried Rice

1. What are some interesting facts about fried rice?

Fried rice is a beloved dish around the world, and there are several interesting facts that make it even more fascinating:

Originating in China: Fried rice was originally invented in China over 1,000 years ago as a way to use leftover rice and reduce food waste. It has since become a staple in many cultures.
It’s versatile: Fried rice can be customized with different meats, vegetables, and sauces, making it one of the most adaptable dishes out there.
Best with day-old rice: The texture of fried rice is best when using rice that’s been cooked and cooled, preferably the day before. The grains are firmer and less sticky, making it easier to fry.
Global popularity: While fried rice is most commonly associated with Chinese cuisine, many other countries have their own versions, including Thailand, Japan, and even the United States, where it’s become a popular comfort food.
Fried rice in high-end restaurants: Some high-end restaurants serve gourmet versions of fried rice, often incorporating luxurious ingredients like truffle oil or foie gras.

2. How long does bacon fried rice last in the fridge?

Bacon Fried Rice can typically last up to 4-5 days in the fridge if stored properly. To ensure its freshness:

Store the rice in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
Always let the fried rice cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Reheat thoroughly before consuming. For best results, reheat it in a skillet to restore the texture or use a microwave.

3. Is bacon fried rice healthy?

Bacon Fried Rice can be a relatively healthy dish, but it depends on the ingredients and portion size. Here are some things to consider:

Moderation: While turkey bacon is a leaner alternative to regular bacon, it still contains fat and sodium. The rice, while providing energy from carbohydrates, can add to your calorie intake.
Nutrient-rich vegetables: The peas and carrots in the recipe provide essential vitamins, fiber, and minerals, contributing to the dish’s overall nutritional value.
Eggs for protein: The eggs in the dish add a good amount of protein and healthy fats.
Customization: You can make the dish healthier by using brown rice for more fiber, reducing the amount of bacon, or adding more veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli.
Balance: If you’re watching your calorie intake or sodium levels, consider using less soy sauce or opting for a low-sodium version to make it healthier.

4. What makes fried rice stick together?

Fried rice can stick together due to several factors:

Moisture content: Freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and sticky, which makes it clump together when fried. For the best fried rice, it’s ideal to use day-old rice that has been cooled and dried out a bit. This helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy and allows it to fry properly without sticking.
Overcrowding the pan: If you try to fry too much rice at once, the ingredients don’t have enough room to cook evenly, causing them to stick together. It’s best to fry the rice in batches.
Excessive stirring: Stirring the rice too much while cooking can cause it to break apart and stick together. Stir gently and only as needed to prevent clumping.
Adding liquids: Too much soy sauce, oyster sauce, or other liquids can make the rice sticky. Use just the right amount of seasoning to keep the rice from becoming too wet.

By following these tips, you can ensure your Bacon Fried Rice turns out fluffy, light, and not too sticky!

Conclusion

Bacon Fried Rice is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe has you covered. The combination of crispy turkey bacon, savory soy sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love.

With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. So, the next time you have some leftover rice or a craving for something savory, give this Bacon Fried Rice recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Bacon Fried Rice Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Quick to Make

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Bacon Fried Rice recipe is a savory and satisfying twist on a classic favorite! With crispy turkey bacon, scrambled eggs, colorful veggies, and fragrant seasonings, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Quick and easy to make, this dish brings the best flavors together in every bite. A delicious way to enjoy fried rice, packed with flavor and texture!

Ingredients

Scale

6 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, chopped
1/2 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
4 cups cooked and cooled long-grain rice (preferably day-old)
3 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

Cook Bacon: In a large skillet or wok, cook chopped turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened.
Add Veggies & Rice: Stir in peas, carrots, and rice. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until the veggies are heated through and rice is fried.
Scramble Eggs: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked, then mix into the rice.
Season & Serve: Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together. Toss in the crispy bacon and chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

Notes

Best with Day-Old Rice: For optimal texture, use leftover rice that’s been cooled for at least an hour. This helps prevent the rice from becoming too sticky during cooking.
Customize: Feel free to add extra vegetables or protein, such as bell peppers, chicken, or shrimp, for added variety and flavor.
Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce to control the salt content if preferred.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stir-fry
Cuisine: Asian fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 900mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Bacon Fried Rice, Fried Rice Recipe, Turkey Bacon Fried Rice, Easy Fried Rice, Quick Fried Rice, Bacon Rice, Comfort Food, Asian Fried Rice, Stir-fry Bacon Rice, Healthy Fried Rice, Bacon Rice Recipe