Bacon Fried Rice – Crispy, Savory, and Comforting in Every Bite
Bacon Fried Rice is one of those dishes that instantly makes you feel at home. The smoky aroma of sizzling bacon, the gentle sizzle of rice hitting a hot wok, and the vibrant pops of color from fresh vegetables come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet flavorful enough to serve guests. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a hearty side, this dish will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Why You’ll Crave This Bacon Fried Rice
Bacon adds a rich, smoky depth that makes this fried rice unforgettable, while the combination of fluffy rice, crunchy vegetables, and savory soy sauce brings balance and texture. Unlike takeout versions, this homemade recipe allows you to control the saltiness, customize the veggies, and use day-old rice for the perfect fried rice texture. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup easy and keeping your dinner stress-free.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Bacon Fried Rice are simple, yet when combined, they create layers of flavor and texture. Using day-old rice is key for that slightly chewy, non-mushy consistency fried rice lovers crave. Fresh vegetables and the right seasonings give the dish its savory punch, while eggs add richness and a silky texture.
- 4 cups cooked, day-old rice
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (if needed)
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
🛒 Condensed Grocery Checklist
Planning to grab everything in one go? Here’s your quick shopping snapshot. Keep in mind, day-old rice works best, so consider cooking it a day ahead. You’ll also want to pick up your favorite soy sauce and possibly oyster sauce for an umami boost.
- Cooked rice
- Thick-cut bacon
- Eggs
- Carrots
- Peas
- Onion
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce (optional)
- Sesame oil
- Vegetable oil
- Green onions
- Salt & pepper
Nutritional Information
Knowing what’s in your meal is just as important as how it tastes. This recipe provides a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats while keeping portion sizes flexible. Bacon naturally adds sodium, so you can adjust the soy sauce to suit your preferences. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving.
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
Time Breakdown
Bacon Fried Rice is ideal for those nights when you want maximum flavor in minimal time. Most of the prep involves chopping veggies and bacon, and the cooking process is lightning-fast once your wok or pan is hot.
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Cooking fried rice is about timing and heat management. Prepping all your ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth, stress-free process. Here’s how to make Bacon Fried Rice like a pro.
- Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add onion, carrots, and peas to the pan. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Push vegetables to one side and pour beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble until just set.
- Add the rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir everything together.
- Return bacon to the pan, then pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Toss well.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Fried rice is endlessly adaptable, and bacon plays well with many flavors. You can make small adjustments to suit your taste or dietary preferences without losing the heart of the recipe.
- Swap bacon for diced ham or shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Use corn, bell peppers, or broccoli instead of peas and carrots.
- Add a little chili paste for a spicy kick.
- Try cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon Fried Rice can shine as a stand-alone dish, but it also pairs beautifully with other mains. Think of it as your versatile dinner base that works in many different meals.
- Serve alongside grilled teriyaki chicken.
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad for contrast.
- Top with a fried egg for extra richness.
- Serve in lettuce cups for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers, Bacon Fried Rice keeps its flavor and texture well when stored properly. Cool it down before storing, and make sure to use an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a hot skillet for the best texture.
- Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent sogginess.
Kid-Friendly Adjustments
Kids often love fried rice, especially with the addition of crispy bacon. A few small tweaks can make it even more appealing to little eaters.
- Use less soy sauce to keep it milder.
- Chop veggies very small for easier bites.
- Skip the green onions if kids aren’t fans.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
Fried rice is simple, but a few tricks take it from good to outstanding. These little adjustments make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
- Cook over high heat for a slight smoky “wok hei” flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if necessary.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Bacon Fried Rice is the perfect marriage of smoky, savory bacon and fluffy, flavorful rice. It’s quick, customizable, and satisfying for any meal of the day. Once you’ve made it at home, you may never order fried rice from a restaurant again. Try this recipe tonight and save it to your Pinterest board for future weeknight inspiration.