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Closeup of homemade onion beef fried rice with tender beef strips, caramelized onions, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds in a cast iron skillet

Onion Beef Fried Rice

This Onion Beef Fried Rice recipe is an absolute game changer! With caramelized onions, tender beef, and savory rice, it’s comfort food taken to the next level. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving takeout-style food at home.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

  • Wok or Large Skillet

Ingredients
  

Beef Marinade

  • 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper

Fried Rice

  • 4 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain rice day-old and chilled
  • 2 large onions thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 large eggs beaten
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil divided
  • 2 green onions sliced, white and green parts separated
  • 1 tbsp butter

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine or sherry optional
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper

Optional Add-ons

  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots thawed
  • 1/2 cup bean sprouts
  • Sriracha or chili oil for serving
  • toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Add sliced beef, massage marinade in, and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
  • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and jammy. Set aside.
  • Turn heat to high. Add another tbsp oil and beef to the pan in a single layer. Sear undisturbed for 30 seconds, then stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
  • Add remaining oil. Sauté white parts of green onions and garlic for 30 seconds. Add beaten eggs, cook for 15 seconds, then scramble.
  • Add cold rice, break up clumps, and let it sit undisturbed for 1–2 minutes. Stir and repeat until crispy bits form.
  • Pour in sauce mixture. Toss to coat all rice grains. Add caramelized onions, beef, and optional veggies. Fold gently to combine.
  • Turn off heat. Add butter and green parts of green onions. Stir to combine and melt butter. Serve hot with optional toppings.

Notes

This dish can be customized with chicken, shrimp, tofu, or mushrooms. Use cold, dry rice to prevent clumping and achieve crispy texture. For make-ahead ease, marinate beef and caramelize onions in advance.
Keyword Beef, Comfort Food, Fried Rice