Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both comforting and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! This Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful twist on the classic fried rice dish, perfect for those busy mornings or lazy weekends where you want something quick yet full of flavor. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftover rice while delivering a hearty meal that everyone in the family will love.

What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. You can make this savory dish in no time, and it always leaves me feeling happy and energized for the day ahead. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your go-to breakfast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This Breakfast Fried Rice comes together in less than 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy this colorful and delicious meal—perfect for any breakfast table!
• Leftover Friendly: If you have some cold cooked rice lying around, it’s the perfect opportunity to whip this up.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh veggies creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have at home—it’s versatile and fun!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will make your Breakfast Fried Rice shine! Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store.

For the Base

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Veggies and Rice

• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Breakfast Fried Rice is its flexibility! You can easily make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try using turkey bacon or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the seasoning: Want a spicy kick? Add some chili flakes or sriracha to spice things up!
• Make it dairy-free: Replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil to keep it dairy-free but still delicious.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels. Add the chopped bacon to a cold skillet. As you heat it over medium heat, this allows the fat to render slowly and helps achieve that crispy texture we all crave. Once it’s cooked perfectly—about 10 minutes—remove it with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon is cooking, crack those lovely eggs into a bowl. Season them with salt and pepper before giving them a light beat with a fork. This step is crucial because well-seasoned eggs add another layer of flavor to your fried rice!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

After draining most of the bacon fat (keeping just 2 tablespoons), increase the heat slightly. Add butter until it melts and foams—this indicates it’s ready for those diced onions! Sauté them until they turn translucent; this process enhances their natural sweetness. Toss in minced garlic next; its aroma will fill your kitchen wonderfully!

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Now comes the fun part—add your cold cooked rice into the skillet! Mix everything well so each grain gets coated in that buttery goodness. Flattening it out into an even layer helps achieve that delightful crispy texture as we let it fry undisturbed for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Mix in Soy Sauce and Veggies

Pour soy sauce over your rice mixture like an artist adding finishing touches to their masterpiece! Stir gently while loosening any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Then add frozen peas, carrots, and sesame oil; toss everything together until warmed through.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, remove your skillet from heat. Stir in that crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions until everything is combined beautifully. Serve immediately with additional soy sauce on hand if desired—it’s truly irresistible!

Enjoy your homemade Breakfast Fried Rice—you deserve every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Making the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice is a breeze with just a few handy tips to keep in mind!

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using cold, day-old rice helps prevent your fried rice from becoming mushy. Freshly cooked rice contains more moisture, which can lead to clumping instead of that beautiful, fluffy texture we all love.

• Prep All Ingredients Ahead: Chop your veggies and whisk the eggs before you even turn on the stove. This will make your cooking process smoother and faster, allowing you to enjoy your meal without any stress.

• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Give each ingredient its time to shine. Sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re perfectly fragrant adds depth to the dish, while letting the rice fry undisturbed creates that desired crispy texture.

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand! Bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach can add color and nutrition while keeping it exciting each time you make this dish.

• Finish with Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end gives a bright flavor boost. It’s an easy way to elevate your breakfast fried rice from good to absolutely fantastic!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it beautifully can enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle additional sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful nuttiness and a touch of elegance to your dish.
• Sriracha or Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, drizzling some hot sauce can elevate the flavors even further.

Side Dishes

• Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple cucumber salad with vinegar dressing complements the fried rice perfectly.
• Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the fried rice. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins!
• Miso Soup: This comforting soup is a classic pairing that offers warmth and umami richness alongside your breakfast.
• Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread adds healthy fats, making for a well-rounded meal that keeps you full longer.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Breakfast Fried Rice in no time! Enjoy every bite of this satisfying dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is not only a delightful meal but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Cool the fried rice completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated rice, heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For frozen rice, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot.

FAQs

Have questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries about this Breakfast Fried Rice recipe:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds additional fiber and nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since brown rice takes longer to prepare.

How can I make my Breakfast Fried Rice vegetarian?

You can easily substitute bacon with plant-based options like tempeh or mushrooms for that savory flavor. Also, replace eggs with tofu scramble for a delightful vegetarian twist!

What is the best way to serve Breakfast Fried Rice?

Breakfast Fried Rice is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by adding toppings like sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick!

Can I customize the vegetables in Breakfast Fried Rice?

Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you love or have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas are great additions that will enhance both flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare Breakfast Fried Rice?

From start to finish, expect about 45 minutes—10 minutes for prep and 35 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for any busy morning!

Final Thoughts

This Breakfast Fried Rice recipe is truly special because it combines comfort food with convenience. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for those mornings when you want something hearty yet simple. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients; make it your own! Happy cooking!