Create the Ultimate Onion Beef Fried Rice for Dinner Tonight!

Onion Beef Fried Rice is a classic Asian dish that’s quick, satisfying, and packed with savory flavors. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender ground beef, aromatic onions, and fresh vegetables with fluffy, flavorful rice for a meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or meal prep friendly option, Onion Beef Fried Rice hits the spot every time.

Table of Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and cold)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, or frozen mix)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet or wok, heat a bit of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Onions and Garlic

Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Vegetables

Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through and slightly tender.

Add Rice

Add the cold, cooked rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps and stir everything together evenly.

Season

Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together for 3–5 minutes, letting the rice absorb the sauces and get a bit crispy in spots.

Taste and Finish

Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Give it one final toss and serve hot.

This Onion Beef Fried Rice is a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or easy meal prep. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic onions, and flavorful sauces makes it a family-friendly dish that’s sure to satisfy.

Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Onion Beef Fried Rice, follow these tips:

• Use Cold, Cooked Rice: Day-old, refrigerated rice works best as it’s drier and less prone to clumping.
• Cook at High Heat: Stir-fry the rice over high heat to get that coveted crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Work in batches if needed to ensure the rice gets a good sear.
• Add Sauces at the End: Pouring in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil at the end helps the flavors shine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Steer clear of these common pitfalls for the best Onion Beef Fried Rice:

• Using Freshly Cooked Rice: Warm, freshly cooked rice will become gummy and clump together.
• Overcrowding the Pan: This steams the rice rather than searing it, resulting in a softer texture.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Be generous with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and seasonings to ensure maximum flavor.
• Skimping on the Vegetables: Adding a variety of veggies provides color, texture, and nutritional value.

Variations of Onion Beef Fried Rice

While the classic Onion Beef Fried Rice is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it to your liking:

• Chicken Fried Rice: Substitute ground chicken or diced chicken breast for the beef.
• Shrimp Fried Rice: Use peeled, deveined shrimp instead of beef.
• Vegetarian Fried Rice: Omit the beef and use a variety of fresh or frozen vegetables.
• Fried Rice with Eggs: Cook scrambled or fried eggs and fold them into the fried rice.
• Spicy Fried Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for some heat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Onion Beef Fried Rice is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments:

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, snow peas, or a medley of roasted veggies make great side dishes.
• Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: These crispy, savory appetizers complement the fried rice perfectly.
• Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled cucumbers, carrots, or radishes can add a refreshing crunch.
• Grilled or Teriyaki Chicken: Pair the fried rice with your protein of choice for a complete meal.
• Beverages: Serve with hot tea, cold beer, or a refreshing fruit smoothie.

FAQs

How long is beef fried rice good for?

Properly stored, beef fried rice will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for 2-3 months.

What are some interesting facts about fried rice?

Fried rice originated in China and is a staple dish throughout Asia. It’s a great way to repurpose leftover rice, and the high-heat cooking method helps develop delicious savory flavors. Fried rice is also highly versatile, allowing you to customize it with a variety of proteins, vegetables, and seasonings.

What onions do they put in fried rice?

For Onion Beef Fried Rice, a medium yellow or white onion is typically used. The onion adds depth of flavor and a slightly sweet, aromatic component to the dish.

What kind of beef for beef fried rice?

Ground beef works best for this recipe, as it cooks quickly and incorporates evenly into the fried rice. You can use lean ground beef or a blend of ground beef and pork for extra richness.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice
• Vegan Fried Rice
• Keto Sheet Pan Jambalaya
• One Pot French Onion Pasta

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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