Breakfast Fried Rice is a flavorful and satisfying way to start the day, packed with crispy bacon (or sausage), scrambled eggs, and seasoned rice. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover rice while creating a hearty, protein-packed meal that comes together in just minutes. Whether you’re craving something savory in the morning or need a quick brunch idea, this dish is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Great for Leftovers – Uses leftover rice for a delicious next-day breakfast.
- Customizable – Add your favorite proteins, veggies, and seasonings.
- One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup required!
- Balanced & Hearty – Packed with protein, carbs, and veggies for a filling start to the day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- Bacon or sausage (chopped)
- Eggs
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Bell pepper (diced)
- Green onions (chopped)
- Soy sauce
- Butter or oil
- Salt & pepper
- Optional: Sriracha, cheese, or avocado for topping
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Protein
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon or sausage until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving some grease in the pan.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
- In the same pan, scramble the eggs until just set. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
- Add butter or oil if needed, then sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft.
Step 4: Fry the Rice
- Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add Flavor & Combine
- Drizzle in soy sauce, stir in cooked bacon/sausage and scrambled eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then stir in chopped green onions.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot, topped with sriracha, avocado, cheese, or extra green onions if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option – Use plant-based sausage or extra veggies like mushrooms and spinach.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or diced jalapeños.
- Cheesy Fried Rice – Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan at the end.
- Extra Protein – Add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
- Hawaiian Style – Mix in diced pineapple for a sweet-savory combo.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month, then reheat in a skillet.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Yes, but spread it on a tray to cool for 15 minutes before frying for better texture.
What’s the best protein for this dish?
Bacon, sausage, ham, or even tofu all work well!
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! Stir in shredded cheese at the end for extra creaminess.
How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
Use day-old rice and fry it over medium-high heat without stirring too often.
What vegetables go well in breakfast fried rice?
Bell peppers, onions, spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes all pair well.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use tofu instead of eggs and a plant-based sausage alternative.
Do I have to use soy sauce?
No, you can use tamari, coconut aminos, or skip it for a lighter flavor.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes! Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for easy reheating.
What kind of rice works best?
Jasmine, basmati, or long-grain white rice works best for fried rice.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! Just reheat in a skillet with a little oil before serving.
Conclusion
This Breakfast Fried Rice is a delicious, savory way to switch up your morning routine. Quick to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect use for leftover rice. Try it today and enjoy a breakfast that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of bold flavors!
Print
Breakfast Fried Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A savory and satisfying breakfast fried rice made with eggs, vegetables, and leftover rice for a quick morning meal that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably cold)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon or breakfast sausage, crumbled (optional)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Hot sauce or sriracha, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Transfer to a plate.
- Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add bacon or sausage, if using, and cook for another minute.
- Stir in rice, breaking up any clumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add peas and carrots and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
- Return scrambled eggs to the skillet. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and green onions. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with hot sauce if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old cold rice for the best texture.
- Swap bacon or sausage for diced ham or keep it vegetarian.
- Top with a fried egg for extra protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
