There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of smoky bacon and tender vegetables, especially when all of it comes together in a single pan of Bacon Fried Rice. This dish is my go-to comfort meal, perfect for reviving those leftover grains after a chaotic week. The moment the garlic hits the hot skillet, releasing its warm aroma, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day or looking for a dish to satisfy unexpected guests, this easy recipe has your back. It’s a beautiful blend of flavors—savory, slightly sweet, and oh-so-satisfying—while also being incredibly versatile. You can easily swap in turkey bacon for a leaner version or load it up with seasonal veggies for a fresh twist.
With just a few simple ingredients and a handful of minutes, you can whip up a hearty meal that feels indulgent yet remains an everyday option. Join me in creating this perfect blend of comfort food and culinary creativity!
Why is Bacon Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Bursting with flavor: The irresistible combination of smoky bacon, savory garlic, and rich sauces creates a taste explosion you won’t forget.
Quick and easy: Perfect for those busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just minutes—ideal for a last-minute meal!
Customizable: Whether you prefer turkey bacon or a veggie-packed twist, it’s easy to tailor this recipe to your dietary needs.
Leftover hero: Utilize day-old rice and other fridge staples, turning yesterday’s meals into today’s scrumptious comfort food.
Satisfying and filling: Each bite of hearty rice, crispy bacon, and wholesome veggies provides a delightful balance, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Bacon Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Rice Base
• Cooked long-grain rice – Day-old, chilled rice is essential for the perfect texture; it prevents a mushy dish.
• Frozen peas and carrots – Add vibrant color and nutrition; you can swap these for fresh vegetables like bell peppers for extra crunch.
For the Flavor
• Bacon – Provides a smoky richness; turkey bacon or tofu can replace it for a lower-fat or vegetarian option.
• Onion – Use a yellow onion for its natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for the best punch; don’t skip this step to elevate your dish’s taste!
• Soy sauce – Choose low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option while still enjoying that umami goodness.
• Oyster sauce – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness that’s essential for authentic flavor.
• Sesame oil – Imparts a distinct nutty aroma; substitute with another oil if there are allergy concerns.
• Salt and pepper – To taste; adjust to ensure the perfect flavor balance.
For Adding Creaminess
• Eggs – Large eggs are perfect for creaminess; beat them well before adding to the pan.
For Garnishing
• Green onions – Chopped for a fresh, vibrant finish; they can be omitted if you don’t have them on hand.
How to Make Bacon Fried Rice
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Cook bacon: Place chopped bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat; cook until crispy. This will release the delicious bacon fat that we’ll use later. Remove the bacon and reserve the fat in the pan.
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Sauté onions: In the same skillet, add diced yellow onion to the reserved bacon fat. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
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Add garlic and vegetables: Toss in the minced garlic along with frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and bright in color.
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Stir in rice: Add the chilled, day-old rice to the skillet. Gently break up any clumps and stir everything together for about 2-4 minutes, until heated through.
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Scramble eggs: Push the rice mixture aside and pour the beaten eggs into the cleared space. Scramble them quickly until fully cooked, then mix them into the rice.
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Add sauces and bacon: Raise the heat to high and add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and the previously cooked bacon. Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve your Bacon Fried Rice hot and enjoy every last bite!
Optional: Drizzle with extra sesame oil for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bacon Fried Rice?
Transform your hearty bacon dish into a memorable feast with these delightful pairings.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, bok choy, and broccoli adds crunch and nutrition, creating a balanced plate.
The vibrant flavors of sautéed vegetables contrast beautifully with the savory fried rice, making each bite a delight. -
Teriyaki Chicken: Juicy, glazed teriyaki chicken complements the umami-rich bacon while adding a lovely sweetness.
This duo packs a flavor punch that’s perfect for satisfying appetites. -
Crispy Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls stuffed with savory fillings serve as a fantastic finger food addition.
The crispy exterior and warm filling make a delightful textural contrast to the soft bacon fried rice. -
Miso Soup: A light and comforting bowl of miso soup brings warmth to your meal, balancing the richness of the fried rice.
It’s the perfect way to start or finish your dining experience on a cozy note. -
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing slices of cucumber tossed in a tangy dressing add crispness and brightness to the meal.
This salad acts as a palate cleanser, bringing life to the overall dining experience. -
Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles create a delightful and refreshing accompaniment, offering nutty flavors to complement the bacon.
They provide a perfect contrast, ensuring your meal remains tantalizingly diverse. -
Sautéed Shrimp: Sweet, succulent sautéed shrimp add a touch of elegance while integrating seamlessly with the rice’s flavors.
Together, they create a harmoniously satisfying dish for special occasions or weeknight dinners. -
Asian-Inspired Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing brings freshness and a satisfying crunch, balancing the heartiness of the fried rice.
The zesty elements make your meal vibrant and revitalizing.
Bacon Fried Rice Variations
Customize your Bacon Fried Rice with these delightful twists that enhance flavor and cater to your preferences!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap in turkey bacon for a leaner version that still packs a smoky punch.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Omit the bacon entirely and replace it with tofu or tempeh for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free without losing flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or leafy greens to amp up the nutrition and color—mixing textures makes it even more appealing.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha for an extra layer of heat that’ll tantalize your taste buds!
- Brown Rice: Choose brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a whole grain twist that boosts fiber content.
- Coconut Infusion: Add a splash of coconut milk when sautéing for a unique, tropical flavor depth that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
- Seasoning Boost: Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika or five-spice powder to create a distinctive flavor profile that intrigues every palate.
Every variation invites you to explore new tastes while embracing the comforting essence of Bacon Fried Rice!
Expert Tips for Bacon Fried Rice
- Day-Old Rice: Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture; freshly cooked rice can become mushy when stir-fried.
- Crispy Bacon: For maximum crunch, make sure to render the bacon fat over medium heat before adding other ingredients; undercooked bacon won’t give the desired texture.
- High Heat Cooking: Raise the heat toward the end of cooking to achieve a slight crispness on the rice; this prevents steaming and promotes a delightful finish.
- Season Gradually: As you add soy sauce and oyster sauce, do so gradually, tasting along the way to avoid oversalting your Bacon Fried Rice.
- Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to load up on more seasonal veggies; bell peppers or spinach not only enhance nutrition but also add a fresh pop of color.
- Rethink Leftovers: Turn this dish into a leftover hero by incorporating bits of chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different flavor profile, keeping it exciting!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Fried Rice
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container; they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet to maintain that delicious texture.
- Freezer: Portion Bacon Fried Rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—just remember to label them with the date!
- Thawing: To defrost, place the frozen portion in the fridge overnight or use the microwave on low settings. For best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or oil to keep it moist.
- Reheating: When reheating, ensure the dish is heated through to 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Enjoy delicious homemade comfort even after it’s been stored!
Make Ahead Options
Bacon Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the vegetables and cook the bacon up to 3 days in advance for a quicker cooking process later on. Simply chop the onions, mince the garlic, and freeze or refrigerate the frozen peas and carrots. Store the cooked bacon in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Bacon Fried Rice, just heat the bacon fat, sauté the prepped veggies, and stir in the rice and other ingredients. This way, you’ll still have that delightful taste and texture, making mealtime a breeze!
Bacon Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Bacon Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old, chilled long-grain rice is ideal for this dish. It prevents the rice from becoming mushy during frying, ensuring a delightful texture. If you can’t find day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice out on a baking sheet to cool it quickly before using.
How do I store leftover Bacon Fried Rice?
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing, which helps maintain freshness. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to revitalize the dish’s moisture.
Can Bacon Fried Rice be frozen?
Yes! Portion out Bacon Fried Rice into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will remain delicious for up to 2 months. Make sure to label each bag with the date. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight, or use the microwave on low, then reheat in a skillet, adding a dash of water to prevent drying out.
What are some common substitutions if I have allergies?
If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily swap bacon for turkey bacon or tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce. Always check ingredient labels for allergens if you’re serving others!
How can I ensure my Bacon Fried Rice doesn’t become too salty?
Very good question! Start by adding smaller amounts of soy sauce and oyster sauce gradually, tasting as you go. You can always add more seasonings, but it’s hard to reduce the saltiness once it’s in! You can also balance flavors by incorporating more vegetables, which add natural sweetness.
What should I do if my fried rice is too dry?
If your Bacon Fried Rice turns out dry, don’t worry! You can add a splash of water or broth while reheating it in a skillet to steam it slightly and restore moisture. Stir it well while reheating to distribute the moisture evenly throughout the dish. Enjoy!
Delicious Bacon Fried Rice for Quick Homemade Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place chopped bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat; cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and reserve the fat in the pan.
- In the same skillet, add diced yellow onion to the reserved bacon fat. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until translucent and fragrant.
- Toss in minced garlic along with frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2-3 minutes until tender and bright.
- Add the chilled, day-old rice to the skillet. Gently break up clumps and stir for about 2-4 minutes, until heated.
- Push rice aside and pour beaten eggs into the space. Scramble until fully cooked, then mix into the rice.
- Raise heat to high and add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and bacon. Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve hot.