This freakin’ fantastic fried rice comes together in about 30 minutes and is made all in one pot for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that your family will love! Switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or use it as a “clean out the fridge” meal to get rid of leftovers and odds and ends that are hiding in your refrigerator. Seriously, it’s one of those recipes that you can throw together with what you have on hand, and it’ll still come out delicious and flavorful!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s chat about the stars of this fried rice show. Here’s what you’ll need:
4 cups cold, cooked rice: Day-old rice works best! Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky.
3 tablespoons butter: Because everything is better with butter! You could also use oil if you’re looking for a lighter option.
1 onion, diced: The base of flavor, don’t skip this!
12 oz frozen peas and carrots: A quick and simple way to get some veggies in. Plus, it saves washing and chopping!
1/2 cup soy sauce: This adds that signature salty umami flavor (feel free to use low-sodium).
3 eggs, beaten: A great way to add protein and a nice fluffiness to the dish.
And hey, if you want to switch it up, toss in some leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu for even more yumminess!
Let’s Get Cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your 3 tablespoons of butter. You want it to bubble but not brown, just until it gets fragrant.
Sauté the Onion: Toss in your diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll want to give it a little stir here and there because you know, the yummy bits are gonna form at the bottom of your skillet.
Add the Veggies: Once your onion is looking good, stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re heated through. Think vibrant colors and that “fresh out of a garden” aroma.
Stir in the Rice: Now, introduce your cold, cooked rice! Break up any clumps as you mix it in with the veggies and onion, then fold in the 1/2 cup of soy sauce. Let it all mingle for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Oh, and this is the moment to scrape all those yummy bits off the bottom for maximum flavor!
Scramble the Eggs: Push the fried rice to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and cook until they’re scrambled, about 2-3 minutes, then mix them into the rice mixture. Honestly, the smell of eggs cooking is just heavenly!
Season and Serve: Take a moment to taste and season with a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Give it one last stir, and then serve it hot. Garnish with some chopped green onions or sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy!
Enjoy your freakin’ fantastic fried rice! Seriously, this dish is loaded with flavor and just so darn comforting!
Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite
Let me tell you, this freakin’ fantastic fried rice is my absolute go-to recipe when our evenings get a bit crazy! It’s comforting, quick, and oh-so-easy to whip together. I’m a real sucker for meals that allow me to use whatever I’ve got lingering in the fridge, and this dish is no exception. Plus, my kids love it, which let’s be real, makes my life a million times easier during those busy weeknights. The best part is, even my picky eater devours it and often asks for seconds!
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my Louisiana Red Beans and Rice, my Cajun Rice, or my Crispy Rice Bites! Trust me; you’ll love those just as much!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This dish comes together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for when you’re racing against the clock after a long day. Less stress and more time to kick back with your family at the dinner table!
One Pot Wonder
You heard me right, this meal comes together all in one pot, which means minimal cleanup afterward. You just have to wash your cutting board and the skillet. Easy peasy!
Budget-Friendly
We’re talking about using leftover rice and any odds and ends hiding away in your fridge. It’s an affordable meal that still feels fancy! You’ll get plenty of flavor without breaking the bank.
Customizable
One of my favorite parts? You can use whatever ingredients you have on hand, maybe some bell peppers, leftover meat, or even other frozen veggies. It’s like a blank canvas for your creativity!
Comfort Food
This fried rice is loaded with tons of flavor and is seriously the definition of comfort food. It’s warm, filling, and makes you feel all cozy inside. Perfect for a chilly evening!
Serving and Storage Tips
What to Serve With This
Pair this fried rice with some crispy egg rolls, a nice side salad, or a simple serving of steamed broccoli for a well-rounded meal. Seriously, the options are endless!
How Long It Keeps
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s completely cool before sealing it in an airtight container. You don’t want any funky smells lingering around!
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, pop it in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Or, you can heat it in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Easy!
Freezer Friendly:
Yes, you can freeze it! Just let it cool entirely, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat it as mentioned above.
Is there anything better than a quick yet satisfying meal that you can whip up in a hurry? I think not! This freakin’ fantastic fried rice is a crucial addition to the rotation of your weeknight meals. It’s easy, loaded with delicious flavors, and your family will love every single bite!
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this fantastic fried rice! It’s flexible, flavorful, and a lifesaver for busy nights when you need something quick and satisfying. So gather those ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Your taste buds (and family) will thank you! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.
Print
30-Minute Freakin’ Fantastic Fried Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and delicious one-pot meal that the whole family will love, made with cold, cooked rice, veggies, and eggs.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cold, cooked rice
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 12 oz frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 3 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until fragrant.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the frozen peas and carrots and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cold, cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing thoroughly and scraping the bottom for flavors, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Push the rice to one side, pour in the beaten eggs on the other side, scramble them for 2-3 minutes, and mix them into the rice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot garnished with green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
Feel free to customize with any leftover vegetables or proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
