Breakfast Fried Rice is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that combines hearty rice, crispy bacon (or ham or sausage), fluffy eggs, and colorful veggies for a morning meal that’s both comforting and endlessly customizable. It’s the answer to leftover rice and the desire for a breakfast that’s a little bit outside the box, but still quick enough for busy mornings. Whether you’re craving savory comfort or a creative way to start your day, this Breakfast Fried Rice is sure to win you over with every bite.

Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Breakfast Fried Rice such a delight is how each ingredient brings something special to the table—crunch, creaminess, a hit of umami, or brightness. The magic happens when these essentials come together right in your skillet, transforming simple staples into a wholesome breakfast you’ll crave again and again!

Cooked and chilled rice (2 cups; white or brown): Day-old rice works best, holding its shape and soaking up flavors beautifully without turning mushy.
Bacon, ham, or sausage (4 strips bacon or ½ cup diced): Adds savory depth and hearty texture—choose your favorite or mix it up!
Eggs (2, beaten): Lend silkiness and protein, plus that classic breakfast vibe everyone loves.
Butter or oil (1 tablespoon): Helps everything cook evenly, adding a touch of richness to the dish.
Diced onion (½ cup): Delivers sweetness and a gentle bite that rounds out the overall flavor.
Diced bell pepper (½ cup): Throws in pops of color and crunch—red, yellow, or green, whichever you fancy!
Frozen peas or spinach (½ cup): A burst of freshness and a sneaky way to add more greens to your morning.
Green onions (2, chopped): Sprinkle in a mild, oniony zing right at the end for max aroma and contrast.
Soy sauce or tamari (2 tablespoons): Gives the rice its lovely golden color and signature savory depth (opt for tamari if you’d like a gluten-free version).
Sesame oil (1 teaspoon, optional): Just a drizzle goes a long way to amp up the nuttiness and aroma.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances brightness and ties all the flavors together perfectly.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon or Sausage

Start with a large skillet over medium heat and get your choice of breakfast meat sizzling. Bacon, ham, or sausage all work wonders here—just cook them until golden and crisp. Once done, scoop them out and set aside, leaving a bit of that flavorful fat behind to work its magic on your veggies.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Snuggle in your butter or a splash more oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. The kitchen should already be smelling amazing at this point!

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Push the veggies aside to one half of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs onto the empty side. Gently scramble them, folding slowly until just set. Then go ahead and mix the eggs with the veggies so every bite gets a hint of creamy egg.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Meat

Add the cold, cooked rice and your cooked bacon or sausage to the skillet. Break up any clumps, then give it all a good, hearty stir to combine. Now’s where the dish gets hearty and it really starts to look like Breakfast Fried Rice!

Step 5: Finish with Peas, Seasonings, and Flavor

In go the peas or spinach, soy sauce (or tamari), and sesame oil (if you’re using it). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for another 3 to 4 minutes—the rice should be hot and evenly mixed, each grain glossy and tempting. Finally, add a shower of green onions just before serving.

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra green onions is classic, but you can also get fancy with toasted sesame seeds, a drizzle of chili crisp, or a fried egg on top for serious breakfast power. Chopped cilantro or even a squirt of Sriracha add a fun finishing touch if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

Breakfast Fried Rice is filling enough to shine on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple fruit salad, miso soup, or crisp cucumber salad for contrast. For a super-satisfying brunch spread, serve it alongside fresh-cut oranges or a small bowl of yogurt.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small bowls and let friends or family add their favorite toppings for a DIY breakfast bar. For a fun twist, scoop the hot fried rice into halved bell peppers, or pack leftovers in a thermos for a hearty grab-and-go meal. Breakfast Fried Rice easily adapts to any morning mood!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Breakfast Fried Rice in an airtight container and chill in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great candidate for quick weekday breakfasts or lunchboxes.

Freezing

Want to stash some away? Spread the cooled fried rice into a freezer-safe bag, press out excess air, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

For the tastiest leftovers, reheat Breakfast Fried Rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep things moist. You can also microwave it if you’re short on time—just cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

You can, but the texture may turn out a bit softer or stickier. Day-old, chilled rice is best for that perfectly separated, classic fried rice feel, so if possible, prep your rice the night before!

Is Breakfast Fried Rice gluten-free?

Yes—just be sure to use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep things gluten-free. Double-check your sausage or bacon as well, if using packaged varieties.

What other vegetables can I add?

Breakfast Fried Rice is a blank slate! Try adding diced zucchini, mushrooms, shredded carrots, or snap peas for extra color and crunch.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon, ham, or sausage. You can boost umami flavor with a handful of sautéed mushrooms or even some diced tofu for protein.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just use an extra-large skillet and avoid overcrowding—two batches will ensure everything stays crisp and doesn’t steam.

Final Thoughts

Give this Breakfast Fried Rice a try next time you’re after something warm, savory, and packed with flavor to start your day. It’s the kind of recipe that brings a little excitement to your breakfast routine—and it’s so simple, you’ll find yourself coming back to it morning after morning!

Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe