As I stood in my kitchen, the savory aroma of sizzling bacon filled the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy, comforting place. That’s the magic of Bacon Fried Rice—a dish that’s not just quick to whip up but also brings a delightful twist to your dinner table. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that perfectly blends smoky bacon with fluffy rice, tender onions, and colorful peas. This beginner-friendly recipe is perfect for those busy weekdays when you crave something satisfying without the hassle of extensive prep. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze! Are you ready to discover a simple way to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive in!

Why is Bacon Fried Rice a Must-Try?

Convenience at Its Finest: This one-pan dish comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights when you want homemade goodness without the fuss.

Bursting with Flavor: Each forkful delivers a delicious mix of smoky bacon, sweet onions, and vibrant peas, creating a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more.

Comfort Food Reinvented: Bacon Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort meal, combining the heartwarming flavors of your favorite fried rice with the irresistible crunch of bacon.

Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or swap the bacon for tofu, making it a flexible recipe that caters to various dietary preferences.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a quick family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table, just like Sticky Chicken Rice or a delicious Avocado Bacon Grilled twist.

Bacon Fried Rice Ingredients

For the Base
• Cold Cooked White Rice – Using day-old rice is key to prevent mushiness and ensures the best texture.
• Bacon (4 slices, chopped) – Provides savory richness; turkey bacon works as a lower-fat substitute.
• Large Eggs (2) – Adds creamy texture; omit for a vegetarian version.
• Small Onion (1, finely chopped) – Enhances sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent.

For the Veggies
• Frozen Peas and Carrots Mix (1 cup) – Adds color and nutrition; feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or corn.

For the Seasoning
• Soy Sauce (3 tablespoons) – Essential for that umami flavor in the Bacon Fried Rice; don’t skip this ingredient!
• Sesame Oil (2 tablespoons) – Infuses a nutty aroma to elevate the dish.

For the Garnish
• Green Onions (2, chopped) – Provides a fresh crunch; shallots can be used as an alternative.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Adjust to your taste for the perfect seasoning.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped bacon and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes crispy and golden. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen! Remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels while keeping the rendered fat in the pan.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, reduce the heat slightly. Crack the eggs directly into the pan and scramble them for about 2 minutes, until they are cooked through and creamy. Once ready, remove them from the pan and set aside, allowing the beautiful flavors from the bacon fat to remain in the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions
With the heat still set to medium, add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step builds a delicious flavor base for your Bacon Fried Rice, making it irresistible!

Step 4: Add Vegetables
Next, pour in the frozen peas and carrot mix and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally until the veggies are heated through and tender. Their vibrant colors will brighten your rice, creating a visually appealing dish that’s not only delicious but nutritious.

Step 5: Toast the Rice
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cold cooked white rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with a spatula and stir-fry the rice for about 2-3 minutes until it’s well combined with the vegetables and slightly toasted. This is the foundation of your Bacon Fried Rice, giving it that wonderful texture!

Step 6: Season the Dish
Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the savory seasoning. The colors will deepen, and the rich aroma will fill the air, signaling that you’re nearing the finish line of this delicious Bacon Fried Rice.

Step 7: Combine Everything
Return the crispy bacon and scrambled eggs back into the skillet. Gently fold everything together, mixing thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing everything to meld and heat through, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 8: Final Seasoning
Taste your Bacon Fried Rice and sprinkle in salt and black pepper as desired. Give it one last mix for about a minute on the heat, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned and perfect for serving.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped green onions over the finished dish. Serve your warm and comforting Bacon Fried Rice hot, delighting everyone with the enticing flavors and aromas of this quick masterpiece.

What to Serve with Easy Bacon Fried Rice?

Imagine the enticing aroma of crispy bacon mingling with a side dish that complements its rich flavors perfectly.

Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the bacon while adding a vibrant crunch to your meal.
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans seasoned with garlic bring a healthy and satisfying crunch that brightens the dinner table and complements the flavors of the fried rice.
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: The crispness of cucumbers in a light sweet and sour dressing creates a cooling sensation that wonderfully offsets the savory warmth of the Bacon Fried Rice.
Soft-Boiled Eggs: The creamy yolk of a soft-boiled egg drizzled atop the fried rice creates an indulgent touch, enhancing each bite with a rich, silky texture.
Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Thai dessert; its sweet coconut flavor pairs harmoniously with the salty bacon, making for a delightful contrast.
Chilled Herbal Tea: Refreshing herbal tea infused with mint or lemon is a perfect drink to cleanse the palate and provide a light, aromatic pairing to the hearty bacon dish.
Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites add a delicious touch to your dinner, and their soft, tender texture pairs beautifully with the crispy elements of the rice.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Tender pieces of chicken glazed in teriyaki sauce offer sweet and savory flavors that mesh seamlessly with the fried rice, creating a satisfying meal experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon Fried Rice portions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cold cooked rice and chopped vegetables up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, feel free to cook the bacon ahead of time; just let it cool and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your Bacon Fried Rice, simply heat a pan, sauté the onions, and combine all prepped ingredients in just a few minutes. This way, you’ll have a deliciously comforting meal ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

Storage Tips for Bacon Fried Rice

Room Temperature: Leftover Bacon Fried Rice is best enjoyed immediately, but can sit out for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s safest to refrigerate to prevent bacterial growth.

Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Before serving, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water for moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Bacon Fried Rice in individual portions using airtight freezer bags. It can last up to 2 months, making it a fantastic meal prep option!

Reheating: To reheat from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or use a microwave on defrost setting. Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Bacon Fried Rice Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to personalize your Bacon Fried Rice with these delightful twists that will elevate your dining experience!

Vegetarian Option: Swap bacon for smoked tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version, keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to boost nutrition and add vibrant colors to your meal. Experiment with different combinations and enjoy the fresh crunch!
Heat it Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick that makes every bite exciting. Spice lovers will appreciate this fiery upgrade!
Protein Boost: Include shrimp or cooked chicken for added protein; simply sauté them with the veggies for a heartier meal.
Soy Sauce Alternatives: Try tamari or coconut aminos if you’re looking for a gluten-free option but still want that umami flavor. It’s a small swap that makes a big difference.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of coconut milk at the end for a creamy texture—perfect for those richer flavor profiles.
Garnish Variants: Top with toasted sesame seeds or a sprinkle of furikake for a delightful crunch and unexpected flavor bursts. This simple addition can transform your classic fried rice into a gourmet dish!

Discover even more delicious ways to spice up your meals with other recipes like Chicken Bacon Ranch or Hot Honey Fried shrimp. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Expert Tips for Bacon Fried Rice

Use Day-Old Rice: Always use cold cooked rice from the fridge for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can lead to mushiness.
Crisp the Bacon: Be sure to cook the bacon until it’s crispy to maximize flavor. Keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning.
Sauté Extras: Enhance flavors by sautéing minced garlic or ginger along with the onions—this adds an aromatic depth to your Bacon Fried Rice.
Reheat Smartly: When reheating leftovers, do so in small batches and add a splash of water to maintain rice texture and prevent it from drying out.
Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins. This dish is highly versatile and can cater to various dietary preferences while keeping it delicious!

Bacon Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for Bacon Fried Rice?
Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture in your Bacon Fried Rice. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy and clump together during cooking. If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice onto a plate and let it cool in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using.

How should I store leftover Bacon Fried Rice?
Cool your leftover Bacon Fried Rice and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to help rehydrate the rice and avoid dryness; reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Can I freeze Bacon Fried Rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the cooled Bacon Fried Rice into airtight freezer bags or containers. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting before reheating.

What can I do if my fried rice is too sticky?
If your Bacon Fried Rice turns out sticky, it’s often because of using fresh rice or not breaking up the clumps before cooking. To avoid this, ensure you use day-old rice and break up any clumps as you add it to the skillet. If it’s too sticky while reheating, add a little water, and stir while heating.

Can this dish be modified for dietary restrictions?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and eggs, and consider adding smoked tofu for protein. You can also replace the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari if you have gluten restrictions. Feel free to experiment with a variety of vegetables to suit your preferences!

Is this recipe safe for pets?
While Bacon Fried Rice is a delightful human dish, it’s not advisable to share it with pets. Bacon, onions, and some seasonings can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always prepare separate meals or treats for your furry friends to keep them safe and healthy.