Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe – The Ultimate One-Pan Weeknight Dinner

Looking for a quick, satisfying meal that packs in flavor without spending hours in the kitchen? This Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe checks all the boxes. It’s hearty, savory, loaded with texture, and the best part—it all comes together in just one pan. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a week of lunches, this dish is your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Onion Beef Fried Rice

Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile and budget-friendly. The use of cold, day-old rice is a genius way to repurpose leftovers, and ground beef adds richness and protein to keep you full. The sautéed onion and garlic deliver a mouthwatering base, while soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil blend together to create that authentic takeout flavor you crave—right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into making this comforting fried rice dish:

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and cold for ideal texture)

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, or a frozen mix work great)

• 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

1. Prepare the Rice

Make sure your rice is cold and has had a chance to firm up overnight in the fridge. This helps it fry up beautifully without getting mushy.

2. Cook the Ground 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 you go. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Stir and cook until the onions are translucent and aromatic—about 2–3 minutes.

4. Add the Vegetables

Toss in your mixed vegetables and stir-fry until they’re tender-crisp. This adds color, crunch, and nutrients to your fried rice.

5. Combine with Rice

Add the cold rice to the skillet and mix it in well with the beef and vegetables. Break up any clumps as you go to ensure even frying.

6. Season to Perfection

Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything thoroughly so the rice is evenly coated with the rich, savory flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

7. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot and fresh out of the pan. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a pop of color and an herby finish.

Customization Ideas

• Add eggs: Scramble a couple of eggs in the pan before adding the rice for extra protein and a boost of flavor.

• Make it spicy: Stir in a bit of chili paste or a dash of sriracha for a kick.

• Go low-carb: Swap rice for riced cauliflower for a lighter version.

• Switch the protein: Try ground turkey, diced chicken, or even tofu.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights

This recipe hits all the marks: it’s fast, flavorful, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s also a fantastic way to reduce food waste by repurposing leftover rice and fridge veggies.

Final Thoughts

This Onion Beef Fried Rice is more than just a delicious dinner—it’s a lifesaver on those hectic days when you need something satisfying in a hurry. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, this one-pan wonder is destined to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out! Share your creations on social media and tag us—because nothing makes us happier than seeing your kitchen triumphs.

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