Steak fried rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together tender, juicy steak with perfectly seasoned rice. A fusion of Asian flavors and Western-style steak, this dish is quick to make and packed with umami goodness. Whether you’re craving a restaurant-style hibachi fried rice or looking for a way to use leftover steak, this recipe is a must-try.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best steak fried rice—from choosing the right cut of steak to cooking techniques, seasoning secrets, and expert tips to get that authentic fried rice taste. Let’s get started!

🥩 Steak Fried Rice – The Best Savory & Easy Homemade Dish

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• Author: JULIA
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

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Description

This Steak Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal made with juicy steak, perfectly seasoned rice, and bold umami flavors. A restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home and better than takeout! Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Steak:

• 8 oz flank steak, ribeye, or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp white pepper

For the Fried Rice:

• 2 cups cold, cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• ½ cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• ½ tsp sesame oil (for finishing)
• 2 green onions, chopped

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Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Steak:

• In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and white pepper.
• Add the sliced steak and marinate for 10-15 minutes.

2️⃣ Cook the Steak:

• Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
• Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

3️⃣ Scramble the Eggs:

• Lower heat to medium, add ½ tbsp of oil, and scramble the eggs. Remove and set aside.

4️⃣ Stir-Fry the Rice:

• Increase heat to high, add ½ tbsp of oil, and sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
• Add the cold rice, breaking up clumps, and cook for 2-3 minutes.

5️⃣ Combine Everything:

• Return steak and eggs to the pan.
• Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well.
• Toss in peas and carrots (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Drizzle with sesame oil and stir well.

6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:

• Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot!

💡 Optional: Add Sriracha, a fried egg, or sesame seeds for extra flavor!

Notes

• Best Rice for Fried Rice: Use day-old rice for the perfect texture.
• Tenderize the Steak: Marinate with cornstarch and soy sauce for a juicy, velvety texture.
• Use High Heat: A hot wok or skillet prevents soggy rice and enhances flavor.
• Store & Reheat: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pan for the best texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: LUNCH
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Asian, Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 170mg

Keywords: Steak Fried Rice, Hibachi Fried Rice, Easy Fried Rice Recipe, Homemade Fried Rice, Chinese Fried Rice, Beef Fried Rice

Why Steak Fried Rice is a Popular Dish

Steak fried rice is popular because it’s quick, flavorful, and versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, and it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and steak.

• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Easy to customize: Add vegetables, spice it up, or swap steak for chicken or shrimp.
• Better than takeout: Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and flavors.

The Origin and Cultural Influence of Fried Rice

Fried rice originated in China as a way to repurpose leftover rice. Over time, different cultures adapted their versions, such as Japanese hibachi fried rice and Thai basil fried rice. The addition of steak is a more Westernized twist, combining Asian cooking techniques with American steakhouse flavors.

Learn more about delicious stir-fry recipes: Fishcakes and Scallops Stir Fry

Choosing the Best Steak for Fried Rice

What Steak to Use for Fried Rice?

The right cut of steak makes all the difference in achieving tender, juicy bites in your fried rice. The best steak options for fried rice include:

1. Flank Steak – Lean yet tender when sliced thin against the grain.
2. Ribeye – Marbled with fat, making it rich and flavorful.
3. Sirloin – Affordable and still tender with great beefy flavor.
4. New York Strip – A premium choice for those who love a firmer texture.
5. Filet Mignon – Extremely tender, but less flavorful than other cuts.

💡 Pro Tip: Always slice the steak against the grain to ensure it stays tender in every bite.

Tender vs. Tough Cuts – What Works Best?

• Tender Cuts (Ribeye, Filet Mignon, Sirloin): Require minimal preparation and cook quickly.
• Tougher Cuts (Flank, Skirt, Hanger Steak): Benefit from marinating to break down the muscle fibers.

💡 Avoid Chuck or Brisket for fried rice, as they are too tough and require long cooking times.

Ingredients Needed for Steak Fried Rice

To make the best steak fried rice, you need the right balance of flavors and textures. Below is a list of essential ingredients, along with optional add-ons to customize your dish.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Steak Fried Rice

Optional Add-ons for Extra Flavor

Want to take your steak fried rice to the next level? Try these additions:

• Sriracha or Chili Flakes – For a spicy kick.
• Butter – Adds richness, commonly used in hibachi-style fried rice.
• Frozen Peas, Carrots, or Corn – Adds sweetness and crunch.
• Mushrooms or Bell Peppers – For an earthy, smoky depth.
• Hoisin Sauce or Teriyaki Sauce – For a touch of sweetness.

💡 Pro Tip: Use day-old rice that has been refrigerated overnight. This prevents the rice from turning mushy when stir-frying.

Cooking Techniques for the Best Steak Fried Rice

The secret to restaurant-quality steak fried rice is proper cooking techniques. Let’s break it down step by step.

How to Cook Steak Perfectly for Fried Rice

1. Season the Steak – Before cooking, season your steak with salt, pepper, soy sauce, and a touch of cornstarch to lock in moisture.
2. Preheat the Pan – Use a wok or large skillet over high heat. Let it get smoking hot before adding oil.
3. Sear the Steak – Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms. Remove and let it rest before slicing.
4. Slice Against the Grain – Once rested, slice the steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the steak! Aim for medium-rare to medium so it stays juicy when mixed with the rice.

Discover great ideas for rice-based dishes: Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe

Best Rice to Use for Fried Rice

Not all rice is the same! The best options for fried rice are:

💡 Pro Tip: Never use freshly cooked rice. Day-old rice is best because it’s drier and firmer, which prevents mushiness.

What Gives Chinese Fried Rice Its Signature Flavor?

Chinese fried rice is famous for its savory, umami-packed taste. The secret lies in the right combination of seasonings, sauces, and cooking techniques.

Key Seasonings and Sauces

💡 Pro Tip: Use a combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce to get that perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors.

Traditional Cooking Methods

To get that authentic restaurant-style flavor, follow these key cooking methods:

1. Cook on HIGH Heat – A hot pan is crucial for achieving the classic “wok hei” (smoky charred flavor).
2. Use a Wok (or Large Skillet) – The larger the pan, the better the rice fries without steaming.
3. Cook Ingredients Separately – Cook steak, eggs, and veggies individually, then combine everything at the end.
4. Keep Stirring but Not Too Much – Let the rice sit for a few seconds between stirs to develop slight crispiness.
5. Add Sauces Last – Prevents rice from getting soggy; mix quickly over high heat.

💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t have a wok, use a cast iron skillet to achieve a similar high-heat sear.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Steak Fried Rice

Now that you know the best ingredients and techniques, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making the perfect steak fried rice.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 8 oz flank steak, ribeye, or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch (for tenderness)
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp white pepper

For the Fried Rice:

• 2 cups cold, cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• ½ cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• ½ tsp sesame oil (for finishing)
• 2 green onions, chopped

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and white pepper.
2. Add the sliced steak, mix well, and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

💡 Pro Tip: Cornstarch helps tenderize the meat, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Once the pan is smoking hot, add the steak in a single layer.
3. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but still juicy.
4. Remove from the pan and set aside.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed to get a nice sear.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

1. In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add ½ tbsp of oil.
2. Pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling gently until just set.
3. Transfer eggs to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Rice

1. Add the remaining ½ tbsp of oil and turn heat back to high.
2. Add garlic and ginger, stirring quickly for 30 seconds.
3. Toss in the cold rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula.
4. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.

💡 Pro Tip: Press the rice down for a few seconds before stirring to create those delicious crispy bits!

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked steak and scrambled eggs back into the pan.
2. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well.
3. Toss in the frozen peas and carrots (if using), cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Drizzle with sesame oil for an aromatic finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped green onions for freshness.
• Serve immediately while hot.

💡 Optional: Add a drizzle of Sriracha or Japanese mayo for extra flavor.

Quick Summary of Cooking Steps

1️⃣ Marinate steak for 10-15 minutes.
2️⃣ Sear the steak over high heat and set aside.
3️⃣ Scramble eggs, then remove.
4️⃣ Stir-fry rice with garlic, ginger, and sauces.
5️⃣ Combine everything back into the pan.
6️⃣ Finish with sesame oil & green onions.

Variations of Steak Fried Rice

Steak fried rice is versatile, and you can customize it to match different flavor profiles and dietary preferences. Below are some delicious variations to try!

Hibachi-Style Steak Fried Rice 🍽️

Want that Japanese steakhouse experience at home? This version is inspired by hibachi restaurant-style fried rice, commonly cooked on a teppanyaki grill.

Key Differences:

✅ Butter instead of vegetable oil – Adds a rich, silky flavor.
✅ Garlic Butter Sauce – Mix minced garlic, melted butter, and soy sauce for extra umami.
✅ Yum Yum Sauce on the Side – A creamy, tangy sauce made with mayo, ketchup, and a hint of paprika.

💡 Pro Tip: Instead of soy sauce, use a mix of soy sauce and teriyaki sauce for a sweeter taste.

Spicy Steak Fried Rice 🌶️🔥

Love heat? This spicy version is perfect for those who enjoy a bold kick in every bite.

How to Make It Spicy:

✅ Add 1 tbsp Sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the rice.
✅ Toss in red pepper flakes for extra heat.
✅ Use spicy marinated steak—coat your steak in a mix of soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste), and garlic before cooking.

💡 Pro Tip: For a smoky heat, try adding a teaspoon of chipotle powder to your seasoning mix.

Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice 🧄🧈

For extra richness, this version uses garlic-infused butter to coat the rice and steak.

How to Make It:

✅ Melt 2 tbsp butter in a pan, then sauté 4 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant.
✅ Stir-fry the rice in the garlic butter before adding the steak.
✅ Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for balance.

💡 Pro Tip: This version pairs amazingly with a fried egg on top! 🍳

Low-Carb & Keto Steak Fried Rice 🥦🍚

Trying to cut carbs? Cauliflower rice makes a fantastic low-carb alternative!

How to Make It Keto-Friendly:

✅ Replace white rice with cauliflower rice.
✅ Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to reduce sodium.
✅ Add extra steak and eggs for more protein.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overcook cauliflower rice—stir-fry for only 2-3 minutes to prevent mushiness.

Teriyaki Steak Fried Rice 🍯🍛

If you love sweet-savory flavors, this version adds a teriyaki glaze for a delicious twist.

How to Make It:

✅ Toss steak in teriyaki sauce before searing.
✅ Stir in pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
✅ Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro.

💡 Pro Tip: Use homemade teriyaki sauce (soy sauce + honey + garlic + ginger) for the best flavor.

Thai-Inspired Basil Steak Fried Rice 🌿🍜

Aromatic and flavorful, this Thai-style version uses fresh basil and fish sauce for an authentic Southeast Asian taste.

How to Make It:

✅ Replace soy sauce with fish sauce + oyster sauce.
✅ Add Thai basil (a must for its slightly spicy, anise-like flavor).
✅ Serve with a fried egg on top for extra richness.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t skip the fish sauce! It gives an incredible depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts on Variations

• For a Japanese-style hibachi experience, use butter and Yum Yum sauce.
• If you love spicy food, go for the Spicy Steak Fried Rice.
• For a creamy twist, try the Garlic Butter version.
• Low-carb? Swap rice for cauliflower rice in the Keto version.
• Teriyaki and Thai Basil versions bring unique, bold flavors.

Check out this Asian-inspired recipe: Chinese Orange Chicken

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Steak Fried Rice

Making restaurant-quality steak fried rice at home is easier than you think! Follow these pro tips to ensure your dish turns out flavorful, crispy, and perfectly cooked.

1. How to Tenderize Beef for Fried Rice 🥩

Tender steak is key to great fried rice. Here’s how to achieve melt-in-your-mouth steak:

✅ Marinate with cornstarch & soy sauce – This technique, called “velveting”, creates a protective layer to keep the beef juicy.
✅ Slice against the grain – Cutting the steak thinly opposite to the muscle fibers ensures tenderness.
✅ Use baking soda (optional) – A tiny pinch of baking soda (½ tsp per pound of meat) can further break down proteins.

💡 Pro Tip: Let your steak marinate for at least 10-15 minutes for the best results!

2. Avoiding Common Mistakes in Fried Rice Cooking 🚫

Even experienced cooks can make mistakes when stir-frying rice. Here’s what NOT to do:

❌ Using Fresh Rice – Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice is too soft and will turn mushy.
❌ Overcrowding the Pan – Too many ingredients at once will steam your food instead of stir-frying it. Cook in batches!
❌ Adding Sauce Too Early – Soy sauce should be added at the end to prevent the rice from becoming too wet.
❌ Skipping High Heat – A smoking hot pan is essential for that signature smoky, slightly crispy texture.

💡 Pro Tip: If your rice clumps together, wet your hands slightly and break it apart before adding it to the pan.

3. Best Cooking Order for Maximum Flavor 🔥

To achieve authentic fried rice texture and taste, cook the ingredients in the following order:

1️⃣ Cook the steak first, then remove it from the pan.
2️⃣ Scramble the eggs, then set them aside.
3️⃣ Sauté aromatics (garlic, ginger) for fragrance.
4️⃣ Add cold rice and stir-fry until slightly crispy.
5️⃣ Return the steak and eggs, then add sauces.
6️⃣ Finish with green onions and sesame oil.

💡 Pro Tip: Press the rice into the pan for 30 seconds before stirring to get that delicious, crispy texture.

4. How to Achieve That “Wok Hei” (Smoky Flavor) 🌫️

“Wok Hei” is the smoky, charred aroma found in authentic restaurant-style fried rice.

🔥 How to Get It:
✅ Use a carbon steel wok (or cast iron skillet) for high heat retention.
✅ Let the pan get smoking hot before adding oil.
✅ Cook in small batches so ingredients fry instead of steam.
✅ Stir-fry quickly—don’t let ingredients sit for too long.

💡 Pro Tip: If using a non-stick pan, you won’t get true “wok hei”—but you can still achieve great flavor by using high heat and a bit of butter.

5. Make It Even Better with These Finishing Touches ✨

Want to take your steak fried rice to next-level deliciousness? Try these:

⭐ Add a fried egg on top for extra creaminess.
⭐ Drizzle with sriracha or spicy mayo for a spicy kick.
⭐ Garnish with sesame seeds & crispy garlic chips for crunch.
⭐ Use a squeeze of lime for a fresh, zesty contrast.

💡 Pro Tip: For extra umami, try a dash of fish sauce or a pinch of MSG (yes, that’s what makes takeout fried rice taste so good!).

Final Thoughts on Steak Fried Rice Tips

✅ Marinate the steak properly for ultimate tenderness.
✅ Use high heat & cook in batches to avoid steaming.
✅ Day-old rice is essential for the best texture.
✅ Sauces go in last to prevent soggy rice.
✅ Finish with sesame oil, green onions, or a fried egg for extra flavor.

Serving and Storing Steak Fried Rice

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making perfect steak fried rice, let’s talk about how to serve it for maximum enjoyment and how to store leftovers properly.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Steak Fried Rice 🍽️

Steak fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with other dishes. Here are some great side options:

💡 Pro Tip: Want a complete hibachi experience? Serve with Japanese Yum Yum Sauce or garlic butter on the side.

How to Store and Reheat Steak Fried Rice 🥡

Fried rice is one of the best meals for leftovers, but storing and reheating it correctly is key to maintaining its texture and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers Properly:

✅ Cool the rice quickly – Don’t leave it at room temperature for too long. Let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container.
✅ Use within 3-4 days – Fried rice stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✅ Freeze for long-term storage – Store in portion-sized zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months.

💡 Pro Tip: Spread the rice out on a baking sheet to cool before refrigerating—it helps prevent clumping.

How to Reheat Steak Fried Rice (Without Drying It Out)

💡 Pro Tip: Add a splash of water or chicken broth before reheating to restore moisture.

Final Thoughts on Serving & Storing

✔️ Serve with sides like egg drop soup, gyoza, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
✔️ Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 3 months.
✔️ Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.

FAQs About Steak Fried Rice

Conclusion 🎉

Steak fried rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s easy to make at home. By choosing the right steak, using day-old rice, and following proper cooking techniques, you can achieve restaurant-quality results every time.

Now that you have all the expert tips and variations, it’s time to fire up your pan and enjoy this delicious, umami-packed dish!