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Close-up of delicious Onion Beef Fried Rice, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Easy Onion Beef Fried Rice

This recipe recreates the amazing flavors of takeout fried rice at home. It features tender ground beef, sweet caramelized onions, and perfectly seasoned rice, all cooked together in a simple and satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups cooked and cooled rice day-old rice is best
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce optional
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • spatula
  • mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Baking sheet (optional, for cooling rice)
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet or wok, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook until softened and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
  3. Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until everything is well combined and fragrant. Remove the beef and onion mixture from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Wipe out the skillet or wok and heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and cook, stirring occasionally, until scrambled and cooked through. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.
  5. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cooked and cooled rice and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps. You want the rice to be heated through and slightly toasted.
  6. Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
  7. Return the beef and onion mixture and the scrambled eggs to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
  8. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and white pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for another minute, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  9. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use day-old rice. If using fresh rice, cook it a few hours in advance and spread it on a baking sheet to dry out. High heat is recommended for a smoky flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. Ground beef can be substituted with chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Add sriracha or chili oil for spice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.