There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming a simple ingredient into a hearty breakfast masterpiece. When I found myself with a fridge full of leftover rice and a craving for comfort food, my mind immediately went to the idea of Breakfast Fried Rice. This dish is a delightful medley of flavors, where crispy bacon meets fluffy scrambled eggs, and colorful veggies come together in a savory embrace.
With just a handful of ingredients, including those leftover grains begging for a purpose, this breakfast option packs a flavorful punch without the fuss. It’s the perfect solution for busy mornings or lazy weekends alike, offering a quick way to fuel your day. Whether you’re seeking a vegan twist or simply want to spice things up with sriracha, this Savory Breakfast Fried Rice can easily adapt to your taste.
Say goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to a plate full of sunshine! Join me in creating a dish that’s not just about convenience but also celebrates the joy of home-cooked flavors. Let’s get cooking!
Why is Breakfast Fried Rice Your Best Choice?
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and vibrant veggies creates a deliciously savory dish that will keep you coming back for more.
Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe takes only minutes to whip together, making it an ideal choice for any schedule.
Uses Leftover Rice: Say goodbye to food waste! Transform yesterday’s rice into a delightful breakfast treat that adds value to your meal planning.
Versatile Ingredients: Experiment with different proteins and veggies based on what you have on hand, or try a vegan version by swapping bacon for plant-based alternatives.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it up for family brunches or weekend get-togethers; there’s no doubt everyone will love this hearty and wholesome take on breakfast!
For more fun ideas, check out our guide on creative breakfast recipes.
Breakfast Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Base
- Bacon – Adds savory flavor and crunch; feel free to swap in turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Eggs – Provides protein and acts as a binder; you can use scrambled tofu for a vegan version.
- Cold Cooked Rice – The foundation of the dish; leftover rice is ideal for the best texture.
For Flavor
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall taste; if using table salt, adjust quantity accordingly.
- Ground Pepper – Adds spice and warmth; freshly cracked pepper is preferable for richer flavor.
- Soy Sauce – Infuses umami into the dish; use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Offers a nutty flavor boost; you can substitute with vegetable oil, but it won’t have the same depth.
For the Aromatics
- Butter – Contributes richness; you can replace it with olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- White Onion – Builds base flavor; sauté until translucent—yellow onion also works well.
- Garlic – Adds depth and aroma; fresh minced garlic brings more flavor than powdered.
For the Veggies
- Frozen Peas and Carrots – Add color and nutrients; feel free to use fresh vegetables if you prefer.
- Frozen Corn – Balances the dish with sweetness; can be omitted or swapped with diced bell peppers.
- Green Onions – Provides a fresh crunch for garnish; chives are a good alternative.
Now, you’re all set to create your Breakfast Fried Rice! Enjoy the process of bringing these delicious ingredients together.
How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice
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Cook Bacon: In a cold skillet, add chopped bacon and heat to medium until crispy, which should take about 10 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels to capture excess grease.
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Scramble Eggs: Whisk your eggs with a pinch of salt. Pour into the same skillet and swirl gently, cooking until set. Remove and set aside to keep fluffy.
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Sauté Aromatics: Increase the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once bubbly, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent (about 5-6 minutes).
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Add Rice: Incorporate your cold cooked rice into the skillet, spreading it evenly. Fry undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to achieve a crispy texture on the bottom!
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Flavor Rice: Drizzle in soy sauce and mix in the frozen peas, carrots, and sesame oil. Toss until everything is heated through and well combined.
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Combine Ingredients: Gently stir in the crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and green onions. Serve immediately for the best experience!
Optional: Add a splash of sriracha for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Savory Breakfast Fried Rice?
There’s nothing quite like a comforting breakfast that awakens your senses and sets a warm tone for the day ahead.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds refreshing brightness, balancing the savory fried rice perfectly.
- Light Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a crunchy contrast that complements the richness of the rice. The freshness makes every bite invigorating!
- Avocado Toast: Creamy, buttery avocado spread on toasted bread enhances the meal with healthy fats, making it a hearty yet delightful accompaniment.
- Spicy Sriracha Sauce: For those who crave a kick, a drizzle of sriracha elevates the dish, adding bold flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fried rice.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, indulgent dessert that rounds out the meal while keeping it light.
- Iced Herbal Tea: Refreshing and soothing, a glass of iced herbal tea brings a calming element that complements the savory aspects of breakfast.
- Mimosa: Celebrate your morning with a sparkling mimosa for a festive touch. The orange juice’s sweetness beautifully enhances the savory flavors!
- Breakfast Smoothie: Blend bananas, spinach, and almond milk for a nutritious drink that adds a cool and creamy texture, enhancing your breakfast experience.
- Baked Cinnamon Apples: Sweet, warm apples baked with cinnamon create a lovely dessert that feels cozy while perfectly contrasting the savory rice dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Breakfast Fried Rice bowls are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bacon and sauté the aromatics (onions and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, measure out your cooked rice and frozen veggies, so all ingredients are ready to go when you’re set to cook. To maintain the dish’s delicious quality, refrigerate the components separately until you’re ready to finish it. When it’s time to serve, just heat the skillet, add the rice and veggies, then incorporate your prepped bacon and eggs for a quick, satisfying breakfast that tastes freshly made!
Expert Tips for Breakfast Fried Rice
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Use Leftover Rice: Opt for day-old rice as it has a drier texture ideal for frying, preventing a mushy dish.
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Don’t Rush Cooking: Sauté onions and garlic slowly to develop depth; rushing can lead to an unbalanced flavor.
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Separate Ingredients: Cook bacon, eggs, and vegetables separately before combining to enhance flavors and prevent overcrowding in the skillet.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; the amount of soy sauce can vary based on your rice and personal preference.
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Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition and add color to your breakfast fried rice!
How to Store and Freeze Breakfast Fried Rice
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if you must leave it out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves the flavors and maintains quality.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Breakfast Fried Rice in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, tossing until heated through, ensuring the rice regains its delightful texture without becoming mushy.
Breakfast Fried Rice Variations
There’s no limit to how you can make this dish your own and tantalize your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter for a rich, dairy-free version that maintains all the flavors.
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Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with scrambled tofu, and swap bacon for plant-based bacon to create a hearty, vegan-friendly dish.
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Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a colorful nutrient boost, making your breakfast even healthier and vibrant.
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Spicy Kick: Drizzle in sriracha or chili oil while cooking to spice things up, turning your breakfast fried rice into a fiery morning treat.
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Nutty Flavor: Try replacing sesame oil with peanut oil for a different twist; this will provide a unique nuttiness to the dish.
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Fruity Touch: Mix in some diced mango or pineapple for a surprising sweet burst that beautifully balances the savory flavors.
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Protein-Packed: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra source of protein, turning this into a filling breakfast to fuel your day.
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Global Flavors: Use different sauces like hoisin or teriyaki instead of soy sauce for a fun international flair that tweaks the taste profile.
Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best rice for breakfast fried rice?
Absolutely! Day-old rice works wonders for this recipe. It’s drier and less sticky, allowing for that perfect fry without turning mushy. If you’re strapped for time, use freshly cooked rice and let it cool in the fridge for an hour before frying to achieve a similar effect.
How should I store leftover breakfast fried rice?
Great question! Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make the rice soggy.
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Can I freeze breakfast fried rice, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze it! Portion the cooled fried rice into freezer-safe bags, pushing out as much air as possible. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and deliciously crispy once again!
What if my breakfast fried rice ends up mushy?
Very! If that happens, it may be because the rice was too wet before cooking. To fix this, make sure to use cold, leftover rice. If it seems too sticky, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it air dry in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying to reduce moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! For gluten-free needs, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. If you or anyone you’re serving has allergies, double-check ingredient labels. For a vegan option, swap out the bacon for scrambled tofu and the eggs with chickpea flour mixed with water.
How can I add more flavor to my breakfast fried rice?
Want even more flavor? Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for a fresh twist. You can also drizzle a bit of sriracha or scallion oil for an extra kick. Experimenting with different veggies or proteins can elevate the dish to your liking!
Savory Breakfast Fried Rice to Kickstart Your Morning Right
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a cold skillet, add chopped bacon and heat to medium until crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Whisk eggs with a pinch of salt. Pour into the same skillet and cook until set. Remove and set aside.
- Increase heat, add butter and toss in chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
- Incorporate cold cooked rice, spread evenly, and fry undisturbed for 4-5 minutes for crispy texture.
- Drizzle soy sauce, mix in peas, carrots, and sesame oil, and toss until heated through.
- Gently stir in crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and green onions. Serve immediately.