Ground beef Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food that combines the savory delight of ground beef with the satisfying texture of rice, all in one delicious dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying dish to impress your family, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and incorporate a variety of ingredients you may already have on hand.
Growing up, Ground Beef fried rice was a staple in our home. I can vividly recall watching my mother expertly toss rice in a hot pan, her face glowing from the steam as the enticing aroma filled our house. The delicious scent would draw us to the kitchen, where we’d eagerly wait for each spoonful, savoring the unique blend of flavors. Those memories haven’t just been preserved in nostalgia; this dish has evolved into a family tradition, creating new memories now, as I prepare it for my own family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ground Beef fried rice recipe combines simplicity with versatility, making it a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it perfect for picky eaters or those on dietary restrictions.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, this dish offers a filling meal that won’t break the bank.
- Satisfying Texture: The combination of tender beef and fluffy rice, seasoned to perfection, ensures every bite is a delight.
Ingredients Notes
Gathering the right ingredients will set you up for success with this recipe. Here’s what you need to know:
- Ground Beef: Go for quality ground beef with a good fat content to ensure rich flavor. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
- Rice: Day-old white rice works best as it fries more evenly. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook and cool fresh rice to allow it to firm up.
- Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add classics like peas, carrots, and bell peppers. These add color and nutritional value to each bite.
- Aromatics: Garlic and onion are essential for adding depth of flavor to the dish.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop onions, mince garlic, and cut your choice of vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside, ready to be thrown in the pan.
Step 2
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the Ground Beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and toss in the onions and garlic. Sauté them until they are soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4
Add your vegetables to the pan and sauté until they are just tender. Push everything to the side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs. Allow them to set slightly before scrambling them together with the vegetables.
Step 5
Finally, return the beef to the skillet and add the cooked rice. Pour the soy sauce over the top, and toss everything together thoroughly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the rice is hot and well mixed with all ingredients. Enjoy your savory Ground Beef fried rice!
Storage Options
To store any leftovers, let the fried rice cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion the fried rice into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm it in a skillet with a little oil until steaming hot. Microwaving is also an option, though skillet heating maintains the best texture.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dietary-friendly Options: Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version, or quinoa for added protein and texture. Both work beautifully in this dish.
- Add More Flavor: Spice up your fried rice with sriracha or crushed red pepper for a kick. A splash of sesame oil at the end enhances its nutty notes.
- Change the Protein: Swap out ground beef for shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile or vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions
This ground beef fried rice is perfect for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a dish for guests. Serve it with a side of steamed dumplings or egg rolls for a more complete meal. Pairing it with a crisp, green salad helps balance the dish’s richness, making for a nourishing and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use freshly cooked rice for this recipe? Yes, you can use freshly cooked rice if you haven’t planned ahead. To mimic the texture of day-old rice, spread the freshly cooked rice on a tray and let it cool in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps the grains firm up, preventing them from sticking together in the pan.
2. What type of oil is best for stir-frying the rice? When stir-frying, use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These are ideal as they won’t impart a strong flavor and can handle the high heat needed for this recipe. Avoid using oils like olive oil, which may have a low smoke point and can affect the flavor.
3. How can I make this dish less salty? To control salt levels, opt for a low-sodium soy sauce and taste as you season. Additionally, you can dilute the soy sauce with a bit of water or substitute it with coconut aminos, which are also lower in sodium. Always taste your dish before adding extra seasoning to keep saltiness in check.
Ground Beef Fried Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef lean
- 2 cups cooked rice preferably day-old
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 eggs beaten
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Push the beef and vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs on the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix with the beef and vegetables.
- Add the cooked rice and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir continuously until the rice is heated through. Drizzle with the remaining sesame oil before serving.
