As the sun sets and the comforting aroma of sizzling bacon wafts through the kitchen, there’s a moment of pure joy. It’s in these cozy evenings that I find myself craving a harmony of flavors, and what better way to satiate that urge than with a warm, hearty bowl of Bacon Fried Rice? This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful combination of crispy bacon, tender veggies, and fluffy scrambled eggs all enveloped in perfectly seasoned rice—a fusion of textures and tastes that warms the soul.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its flavor, but its versatility. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice, sneak in some extra veggies, or even swap out bacon for a healthier option like tofu or turkey bacon, this dish adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, my Ultimate Bacon Fried Rice is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to dive into a bowl of comfort? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Bacon Fried Rice a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect solution for hectic weeknights.
Flavor Fusion: The unique combination of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and tender vegetables creates a taste sensation that’s both savory and satisfying.
Customizable: Whether you prefer turkey bacon or want to boost the veggie content, this dish adapts to your dietary needs and ingredient availability.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it as a main dish or a side, and watch it disappear—everyone loves a delicious bowl of fried rice!
Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers can be easily stored and reheated, making it a great option for meal preppers. For additional inspiration, check out my tips for customizing flavors!
Bacon Fried Rice Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious dish.
For the Rice
- Rice – Long-grain rice works best for a fluffy texture, and using leftover rice ensures it doesn’t get mushy. You can substitute with brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition.
For the Bacon
- Bacon – Perfect for adding that savory, smoky flavor; try swapping for turkey bacon or tofu for a healthier alternative!
For the Vegetables
- Onions – Base for flavor; they caramelize beautifully when cooked.
- Carrots – Add sweetness and color; feel free to add any veggies like bell peppers or broccoli based on what you have!
For the Eggs
- Eggs – Essential for creaminess; for a vegan option, use scrambled tofu instead!
For Seasoning
- Soy Sauce – Infuses the dish with umami; use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
- Sesame Oil – A small amount adds a lovely nutty aroma; you can substitute with olive oil in a pinch.
Enjoy gathering these ingredients as you prepare to create your own comforting bowl of Bacon Fried Rice!
How to Make Bacon Fried Rice
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Prepare Ingredients: Gather your ingredients and chop all veggies. Cook bacon until crispy in a large skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
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Cook Eggs: Push the bacon to one side of the skillet and scramble the eggs in the empty space until just set, about 2-3 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked rice to the pan, mixing it well with the bacon and scrambled eggs. Incorporate the chopped vegetables and stir everything together for another 3-4 minutes.
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Season: Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle sesame oil over the rice mixture, stirring well to combine flavors and heat through for 2 more minutes.
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Finish: Allow everything to heat through until the veggies are tender and the rice is slightly crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Serve hot!
Optional: Garnish with fresh green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Fried Rice
Fridge: Keep leftover Bacon Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Ensure to label them for easy identification later!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to moisten if needed. Enjoy a satisfying bowl of Bacon Fried Rice again!
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep Bacon Fried Rice out for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain freshness.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Bacon Fried Rice ahead of time is a clever way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can cook the bacon and chop the vegetables up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also combine the rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil mixture, keeping it separate until you’re ready to cook. For best results, refrigerate the prepared ingredients and make sure to reheat them together in a hot skillet, stirring well to heat thoroughly. When ready to serve, simply scramble the eggs in the pan, add your prepped ingredients, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that’s just as delightful as if it were made fresh!
Bacon Fried Rice Variations
Customize your dish and treat your taste buds with delightful twists that elevate your Bacon Fried Rice to new heights!
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Turkey Bacon: Swap out traditional bacon for turkey bacon for a leaner, equally flavorful option.
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Tofu Scramble: For a vegetarian version, replace bacon with scrambled tofu seasoned with soy sauce for a savory kick.
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Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, peas, or zucchini to enhance flavors and nutrition while maintaining a lovely crunch.
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Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of white for added fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor, making your dish even more wholesome.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate sriracha or chili oil into the mix for a fiery punch that awakens the senses and adds an exciting layer to each bite.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions just before serving for a burst of freshness that brightens the dish beautifully.
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Coconut Aminos: For a gluten-free alternative, replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter twist while retaining depth of flavor.
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Pineapple Addition: Add small chunks of pineapple for a tropical touch that introduces a sweet contrast to the savory bacon.
Each of these variations can transform your Bacon Fried Rice into a unique culinary adventure, letting you savor something new every time!
Expert Tips for Bacon Fried Rice
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Rice Prep: Use cold, day-old rice for a better texture; fresh rice tends to be mushy, ruining the dish.
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Bacon Crispiness: Cook bacon slowly to render out excess fat and achieve that perfect crispy texture, which enhances the overall flavor of your bacon fried rice.
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Veggie Variety: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or peas to add color and nutrition while using whatever you have on hand, making it truly customizable.
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Seasoning Balance: Remember to taste your dish as you go; adjust soy sauce to your preference to prevent it from becoming too salty while ensuring the delicious umami flavor shines through.
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Serving Hot: Bacon fried rice is best enjoyed right after cooking; the flavors meld beautifully when served hot and fresh from the skillet.
What to Serve with Bacon Fried Rice?
As you savor the delightful blend of flavors in this comforting dish, it’s time to consider what side dishes can enhance this meal experience.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots brings freshness and crunch, perfectly contrasting the savory richness of the fried rice.
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Teriyaki Chicken: The sweet and sticky glaze of teriyaki chicken elevates this meal, creating a delightful balance with the smoky bacon and umami in the rice.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber slices, tossed with a tangy dressing, provide a refreshing palate cleanser amidst the hearty flavors of the fried rice.
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Egg Drop Soup: Light and comforting, this classic soup offers a warm contrast to the richness of bacon fried rice, making it a comforting pairing for any occasion.
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Spring Rolls: These crispy delights filled with fresh vegetables make for a perfect appetizer, adding delightful crunch and a burst of freshness before your main course.
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Szechuan Green Beans: With their tender-crisp texture and a hint of spice, these beans complement the savory notes in the rice and add a pop of color to your plate.
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Miso Soup: A soothing bowl of miso soup loaded with seaweed and tofu enhances the cozy feel of your meal, making it a satisfying addition to any dinner.
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Refreshing Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade cuts through the richness of the bacon fried rice, providing a zesty brightness that refreshes your senses.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a warm, molten chocolate lava cake provides an indulgent end to your meal, balancing the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
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Green Tea: The earthy notes of green tea help cleanse the palate, making it an excellent beverage choice that complements the meal beautifully.
Bacon Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Bacon Fried Rice?
Absolutely! For the best texture, long-grain rice is ideal—it remains fluffy and less sticky during cooking. Leftover rice is preferred since it’s slightly dried, preventing it from getting mushy. If you’re looking for healthier options, consider using brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.
How should I store leftover Bacon Fried Rice?
Very good question! You can keep leftover Bacon Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s important to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat. If it feels dry, add a splash of water to help rehydrate the rice!
Can I freeze Bacon Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option for longer storage. Divide your Bacon Fried Rice into portions, placing them in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the containers with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet, adding a bit of water if needed.
How do I customize the flavor of my Bacon Fried Rice?
The more the merrier! To customize the flavor, start by adjusting the amount of soy sauce to suit your taste preferences, ensuring the umami flavor shines through without being overly salty. You can also include fresh herbs like green onions or cilantro as garnishes just before serving for an extra burst of flavor. Additionally, adding a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can spice things up if you’re looking for a bit of heat!
Is this recipe suitable for various dietary needs?
Very much so! If you have dietary considerations, this Bacon Fried Rice can be easily tailored. You can opt for turkey bacon or even tofu as a meat substitute. For gluten-free lovers, just swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or broccoli to accommodate different dietary needs while enhancing nutrition. This dish truly adapts beautifully to your preferences!
Savory Bacon Fried Rice: Quick Comfort with Custom Flavor!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather your ingredients and chop all veggies. Cook bacon until crispy in a large skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Push the bacon to one side of the skillet and scramble the eggs in the empty space until just set, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan, mixing it well with the bacon and scrambled eggs. Incorporate the chopped vegetables and stir everything together for another 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle sesame oil over the rice mixture, stirring well to combine flavors and heat through for 2 more minutes.
- Allow everything to heat through until the veggies are tender and the rice is slightly crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Serve hot!