Name: Better Than Takeout Bacon Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 6 strips of bacon, chopped; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix; 3 green onions, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 eggs, beaten; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Additional vegetables (bell peppers, corn, etc.)

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Introduction

This Better Than Takeout Bacon Fried Rice is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines crispy bacon, savory soy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s a quick and easy recipe that elevates a classic comfort food to a whole new level, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special treat.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
6 strips of bacon, chopped
1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
3 green onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 eggs, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Additional vegetables (bell peppers, corn, etc.)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet or wok, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon drippings and stir briefly to release its aroma. Then add the frozen peas and carrots, cooking until heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 3: Increase the heat to high and add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and allow the rice to fry for 3 to 4 minutes, letting it get crispy on the bottom.
Step 4: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 5: Mix the scrambled eggs into the rice, then add back the crispy bacon and the sliced green onions.
Step 6: Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil evenly over the rice mixture. Stir well to coat all ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat once everything is combined and heated through. Serve your Better Than Takeout Bacon Fried Rice immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra texture, use day-old rice as it fries better and prevents sogginess.
Add diced bell peppers or corn for more colorful vegetables and sweetness.
Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty dish.
If you want a vegetarian version, swap bacon for smoked tofu or mushrooms.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the fried rice in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water before reheating can help maintain moisture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with fried rice that has several layers of small round green peas, bright yellow corn kernels, and small cubes of crispy brown bacon and ham mixed throughout the light brown rice grains. The rice looks slightly oily and shiny, with scattered finely chopped green herbs on top. The background shows a blurred white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

While fresh rice can be used, day-old rice is preferred because it is drier and fries better, preventing the dish from becoming mushy.

Can I add other proteins to this fried rice?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu along with or instead of bacon to customize the dish to your liking.