Amid the rush of life, when all you crave is a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug, Bacon Fried Rice swoops in as the quick and easy answer. In just 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder combines crispy bacon with fluffy scrambled eggs and a colorful array of frozen vegetables to create a dish that’s undeniably better than takeout. Not only is it customizable to fit your taste buds, but it also expertly transforms leftovers into a delightful dinner that makes the weeknight hustle a little brighter. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe invites you to create something special. Want to learn how to make your own mouth-watering version?
Why is Bacon Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Flavorful twist on takeout: This Bacon Fried Rice serves up all the rich flavors you love from your favorite restaurant, but homemade and better!
Quick and easy recipe: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable to your taste: Whether you’re in the mood for bacon, chicken, shrimp, or even a Hawaiian spin, this recipe invites creativity and can help use up leftovers too!
One-pot convenience: Skip the mess! Everything cooks together in a single pot, which makes clean-up a breeze while retaining maximum flavor.
Perfect sidekick for servings: Pair this savory fried rice with an Asian Cucumber Salad for a refreshing contrast alongside your meal. Make your weeknights easier and more delicious with this easy and indulgent dish!
Bacon Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Base
• Bacon – Provides rich flavor and crunchy texture; substitute turkey bacon for a healthier option or veggie bacon for a vegetarian version.
• Sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma and depth of flavor; this should not be omitted as alternatives like vegetable oil lack the same impact.
• Onion – Builds the base flavor of the dish; finely chopped yellow or green onions work best.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor profile with a strong, aromatic quality; fresh minced garlic is preferred.
• Frozen vegetables – Offers convenience and variety in texture; a mix of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans is recommended.
• Eggs – Adds protein and creaminess; use lightly beaten eggs and cook them until fully scrambled.
• Jasmine or white rice – Acts as the main body of the dish; day-old cooked rice is optimal for maintaining texture and preventing clumping.
For Seasoning
• Soy sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; adjust the quantity to taste.
• Sriracha sauce – Adds a touch of heat; optional, based on your spice preference.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning to taste, ensuring the dish is balanced.
Let the delightful adventure of creating your own Bacon Fried Rice begin!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Fried Rice
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Begin by heating a nonstick pot over medium-high heat. Add your diced bacon to the pot, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until it’s crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you want that perfect crunchy texture. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate, leaving the irresistible bacon fat in the pot for added flavor in your Bacon Fried Rice.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pot, drizzle in about a tablespoon of sesame oil while the pot is still hot. Next, add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Toss in a mix of frozen vegetables and continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot, creating space to add your lightly beaten eggs. Pour in the eggs and stir gently with a spatula, scrambling them for about 2-3 minutes until they are fully cooked through and no longer runny. Once scrambled, mix everything in the pot together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in your Bacon Fried Rice.
Step 4: Incorporate Rice and Seasonings
Now it’s time to add your day-old cooked rice to the pot. Make sure to break up any clumps as you stir it in along with the crispy bacon, soy sauce, and a splash of Sriracha if you like some heat. Stir everything together thoroughly for 2-3 minutes until well combined and heated through, letting each grain of rice soak up the delicious flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your Bacon Fried Rice is ready, remove it from heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish the top with additional crispy bacon pieces and freshly sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. This lovely presentation makes your dish even more inviting and enjoyable. Now it’s ready to be served hot, giving you a delightful meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Fried Rice bowls are a fantastic meal prep option! You can cook the bacon, sauté the vegetables, and scramble the eggs, then cool and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare your cooked rice ahead of time (day-old rice is ideal). When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply reheat the bacon, vegetables, and eggs in a pot, add the rice, soy sauce, and Sriracha, then mix everything well for a quick, delicious meal that maintains its flavor and texture. This method not only saves you time during busy weeknights but ensures your Bacon Fried Rice is just as delightful.
Bacon Fried Rice Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to bring your own touch to this Bacon Fried Rice recipe with these fun and flavorful variations!
-
Chicken Twist: Add small cubes of sautéed chicken at the end for a protein-packed twist. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken too!
-
Shrimp Delight: Stir in sautéed shrimp for a seafood spin that beautifully complements the dish’s savory flavors. The shrimp provides a burst of sweetness!
-
Hawaiian Style: Incorporate pineapple chunks and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a delightful sweet and spicy combination. This variation takes your taste buds on a tropical adventure!
-
Kimchi Kick: Toss in some kimchi while sautéing the vegetables for an extra tangy flavor boost. The fermentation adds depth and creates a different twist on traditional fried rice.
-
Veggie Power: Swap the bacon for veggie bacon and use all manner of delicious fresh vegetables. This is a fantastic option for a colorful and satisfying vegetarian meal!
-
Flavored Rice: For a fragrant twist, use coconut rice instead of jasmine for a creamy, tropical flavor in every bite.
-
Spicy Heat: Add fresh chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil to amp up the spice level. Adjust according to your heat preference for a fiery rendition!
When you’re ready for another delightful dish, don’t forget to check out the Than Takeout Fried rice recipe for inspiration, or try the Teriyaki Turkey Rice bowl for an Asian-inspired treat! Enjoy customizing this fun dish!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Fried Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your Bacon Fried Rice fresh and ready for quick meals.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to revive moisture and prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Bacon Fried Rice for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s fully cooled before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
Thawing: To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm through in a skillet, stirring frequently for even heating.
What to Serve with Bacon Fried Rice
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes and drinks that complement the warm flavors of this one-pot meal.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch to counterbalance the savory richness of the fried rice; it’s light, crisp, and utterly invigorating.
- Steamed Edamame: These tender, lightly salted soybeans add protein and a pleasant pop of color. Enjoy them as a snack to nibble on between bites!
- Sweet Chili Chicken Wings: Sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy, these wings make a perfect finger food pairing that will leave you craving for more.
- Sesame Broccoli: This dish adds a nutritious, colorful element to your meal. Lightly sautéed with sesame oil, it’s a delightful way to round out flavors.
- Hot and Sour Soup: A mainstay in many Asian restaurants, its tangy yet spicy broth will complement the fried rice beautifully and add depth to your meal.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this Thai classic offers a sweet finish, balancing the savory notes of your feast while bringing a tropical twist.
- Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and lightly caffeinated, a glass of iced green tea can enhance the meal and offers a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of fried rice.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits could bring a light sweetness to the table; opt for juicy melon, pineapple, or berries to cleanse the palate.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies and shrimp or tofu make for a delicious appetizer that adds texture and flavor variety to your meal.
Tips for the Best Bacon Fried Rice
Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice is key! It prevents mushiness, ensuring your Bacon Fried Rice has the perfect fluffy texture, making cleanup easier.
Keep the Bacon Fat: Don’t discard the bacon fat; it adds a rich flavor that elevates your dish. This is a common mistake, so be sure to use it!
Choose Fresh Ingredients: When using frozen vegetables, opt for a colorful mix for more visual appeal. Fresh is great, but ensure everything is chopped.
Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious with the vegetables and eggs. Overcooking them can lead to loss of texture and flavor, so sauté until just tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Personalize the seasoning with soy sauce and Sriracha. Remember, you can always start with less and add more to taste in your Bacon Fried Rice!
Bacon Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Standard pork bacon is the classic choice, giving rich flavor and crunch. However, if you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works wonderfully too. For vegetarian alternatives, consider using veggie bacon which can mimic the texture quite well.
How should I store leftovers?
For optimum freshness, store your Bacon Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep your dish ready for quick meals. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat or a microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive any lost moisture.
Can I freeze Bacon Fried Rice?
Most definitely! You can freeze your Bacon Fried Rice for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight, then reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What if my rice is clumpy?
No worries! If your rice ends up too clumpy during cooking, simply use a fork or a wooden spatula to gently break apart the clumps as you heat it. Also, using day-old rice is key as it prevents excessive moisture—which helps keep your Bacon Fried Rice fluffy and light! Remember, avoid overcooking it to maintain a wonderful texture.
Can my pets eat this dish?
It’s better to be safe! While bacon is safe for some pets in small amounts, most ingredients in Bacon Fried Rice could upset their stomachs, especially onions and garlic which are toxic to dogs and cats. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing your delicious food creations with your furry friends!
How do I customize my Bacon Fried Rice?
The more the merrier! You can easily personalize your Bacon Fried Rice by adding proteins like sautéed chicken or shrimp, or switching out vegetables for whatever you have on hand. For a Hawaiian twist, toss in pineapple chunks for added sweetness, or include kimchi for a spicy kick. Let your creativity shine!
Bacon Fried Rice: Quick and Easy One-Pot Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the bacon in a nonstick pot over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Transfer bacon to a plate, leaving bacon fat in the pot.
- Add sesame oil to the pot, then sauté onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add frozen vegetables and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Push vegetables aside, add lightly beaten eggs, and scramble for 2-3 minutes until fully cooked. Mix everything together.
- Add day-old rice, breaking up clumps. Stir in bacon, soy sauce, and Sriracha if desired. Stir for 2-3 minutes until well combined.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with crispy bacon and green onions, and serve hot.
