When you have leftover rice and need a quick, satisfying meal, onion beef fried rice is the perfect solution. It’s one of those recipes that proves how a few simple ingredients can create a delicious and hearty dish. Ground beef provides richness, onions bring a mild sweetness, and a mix of colorful vegetables adds both nutrition and texture. With the right sauces and seasonings, this fried rice comes together with bold, balanced flavor in just minutes.
What makes this dish so appealing is its flexibility. You can adapt it to suit what’s in your fridge—substitute veggies, swap the protein, or even make it spicy. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, lunch meal prep, or when you’re feeding a crowd on a budget. Using cold, day-old rice is the key to achieving that perfect fried texture without it getting mushy.
Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this meal satisfies without being complicated. It’s fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 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, such as carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Servings: 4
Instructions
Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them soften and release their aroma. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re just tender. Toss in the cold cooked rice, breaking up any clumps and stirring to combine with the beef and vegetables. Drizzle in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro if you like.
Nutritional and Dietary Information
This dish is a good source of protein thanks to the ground beef, while the rice provides energy-rich carbohydrates. The vegetables add fiber and important vitamins. If you’re watching sodium levels, consider using a low-sodium soy sauce or omitting the oyster sauce. For gluten-free needs, replace both sauces with gluten-free alternatives. It can also be made leaner by using ground turkey or chicken.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If this savory rice dish hit the spot, don’t keep it to yourself! Share the recipe with friends and family, or drop a comment with your own twist. Your feedback helps others discover new favorites, and your ideas might inspire someone else’s next delicious creation.