Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe

This Onion Beef Fried Rice is a quick and satisfying meal that combines tender beef, fragrant onions, and perfectly cooked rice stir-fried together with savory seasonings. It’s a one-pan dish that delivers rich flavors and a comforting texture, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or whenever I want something hearty and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet packed with layers of taste. The sweetness of the onions balances perfectly with the savory beef and the hint of soy sauce brings everything together. It’s incredibly versatile and comes together fast, which means less time cooking and more time enjoying the meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rice and customize with whatever vegetables or spices I have on hand.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)

• 8 oz beef sirloin, thinly sliced

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 2 green onions, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

3. In the same pan, add the sliced onions and sauté until they become soft and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Return the beef to the pan, then add the cooked rice. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

5. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), stirring constantly to evenly distribute the flavors. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through.

6. Drizzle the sesame oil over the rice and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Give everything one last stir and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2 to 3 people. It takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and convenient option for lunch or dinner.

Variations

I like to switch things up by adding different vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition. Using ground beef or leftover roast beef works well too if I don’t have sirloin on hand. For a spicy kick, I sometimes add a splash of chili sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes. And if I want to keep it vegetarian, tofu can easily replace the beef.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Onion Beef Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer to warm it up in a skillet over medium heat to keep the rice from becoming soggy, adding a little oil if needed. Microwaving works too but stirring occasionally helps it heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

I find that day-old rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky, which helps achieve the perfect fried rice texture. If I only have fresh rice, I spread it out to cool and dry for a bit before cooking.

What cut of beef is best for this recipe?

I prefer using sirloin or flank steak thinly sliced because they cook quickly and stay tender. Other cuts like ribeye or skirt steak also work well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives, this dish can easily be made gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Using a well-heated pan with enough oil helps prevent sticking. Also, using rice that’s been chilled overnight ensures it’s less sticky during stir-frying.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

I can prep the beef and slice the onions ahead, but I recommend cooking the fried rice fresh for the best texture and taste.

Conclusion

Onion Beef Fried Rice is one of those meals I return to when I want something fast, flavorful, and satisfying. The balance of tender beef, sweet onions, and savory rice makes it a comforting dish I enjoy making and eating. It’s flexible enough to tweak based on what I have in the kitchen, and it always comes together quickly. I’m sure once I tried this recipe, it’ll become a regular favorite too.

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