Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is the kind of one-pan wonder that brings together comfort, bold flavor, and quick execution in a single, satisfying dish. With juicy, tender bites of steak, buttery garlic rice, crispy vegetables like green beans and sweet peas, and fluffy scrambled eggs, this recipe is a fusion of Asian-inspired fried rice and Western-style steakhouse richness. The key to its deep umami flavor lies in the tenderized beef, which is marinated in soy, oyster sauce, and a hint of baking soda to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture you usually only get in restaurants. Combine that with the richness of garlic butter and the balance of fish sauce and oyster sauce in the rice, and you have an explosive flavor profile that’s hard to beat.
Perfect for using up leftover rice and customizable with whatever veggies you have on hand, this recipe turns simple ingredients into something truly crave-worthy. It’s hearty enough to serve as a standalone dinner, quick enough for weeknights, and impressive enough to feed guests. And if you’re a fan of meal prep, it holds up beautifully for next-day lunches. Whether you’re a fried rice fanatic or just want a reliable, flavor-packed meal in under 30 minutes, Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, Umami-Rich Flavor: Steak, garlic, butter, and a perfect sauce blend create an unforgettable taste.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: Tenderizing the beef makes it incredibly soft and juicy, just like your favorite takeout.
- One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Great for Leftovers: Ideal for using leftover rice and reheats like a dream.
- Highly Customizable: Swap veggies, sauces, or even proteins to fit your taste or fridge contents.
Ingredients
- Rump beef steak (or other suitable cut)
- Dark soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Water
- Garlic
- Sugar
- Baking soda
- Canola or peanut oil
- Green onion
- Cooked, day-old long grain white rice
- Green beans
- Peas
- Fish sauce
- Eggs
- Sesame oil
- Salt and pepper
Variations
- Change the Protein: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef for a different spin.
- Swap the Veggies: Try bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, or corn instead of green beans and peas.
- Add Heat: Stir in chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Different Rice: Use jasmine, basmati, or even brown rice—just make sure it’s cold and dry.
- Low-Sodium Version: Reduce the soy and fish sauce or use low-sodium versions.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1
Marinate the sliced beef in dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, garlic, sugar, and baking soda. Let it sit for at least 15–20 minutes to tenderize.
Step 2
Scramble the eggs with sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Cook in a hot pan until just set. Remove and set aside.
Step 3
Heat oil in a wok or large skillet. Sear the marinated beef over high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4
Add more oil to the pan, then sauté the white parts of the green onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
Step 5
Add the green beans and peas and stir-fry until just tender.
Step 6
Add the cold, day-old rice to the pan. Break it apart with your spatula and toss to combine with the vegetables.
Step 7
Pour in the fried rice sauce (fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar). Mix thoroughly to coat the rice.
Step 8
Return the steak and scrambled eggs to the pan. Add the green parts of the onions and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Step 9
Finish with a little extra butter or sesame oil if desired. Serve hot.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture and separation.
- Don’t skip the baking soda in the beef marinade—it’s key to tenderizing.
- High heat is essential for quick searing and great flavor.
- Prep all ingredients ahead—fried rice comes together fast.
- Let the beef sit undisturbed in the pan to get a nice sear.
How to Serve
Serve Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice hot, garnished with extra green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil. It pairs perfectly with pickled vegetables, a fried egg on top, or a light Asian salad. It’s filling enough to be a meal on its own but can also be served as part of a multi-dish dinner spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Portion the fried rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil, stirring frequently. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until hot.
FAQs
1. Can I use freshly cooked rice?
Fresh rice tends to be too moist and sticky. It’s best to use cold, day-old rice for proper texture.
2. What cut of beef works best?
Rump (top sirloin) is ideal, but flank, skirt, or ribeye also work well if sliced thinly.
3. Can I skip the fish sauce?
You can substitute with soy sauce, but fish sauce adds a unique depth of flavor.
4. Why is my beef chewy?
You may have skipped the tenderizing step or overcooked it. Thin slices and quick cooking over high heat are key.
5. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding.
6. Is this dish spicy?
Not by default, but you can add chili or hot sauce for heat.
7. Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely. This dish keeps well and is great for batch cooking.
8. What’s the best oil to use?
Canola or peanut oil are ideal due to their high smoke point and neutral flavor.
9. How do I keep the rice from sticking?
Use a non-stick pan, cold rice, and stir continuously during cooking.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam rather than fry the ingredients.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is the perfect balance of comfort and flavor—rich, garlicky, and incredibly satisfying. With tender steak, crispy vegetables like green beans and peas, and deeply savory rice, it’s a dish that feels indulgent but is quick and easy enough for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or craving a hearty stir-fry, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Keep it in your rotation for a guaranteed weeknight win.
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Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A savory one-pan meal combining tender garlic-butter steak, crisp green beans, fragrant garlic, and fluffy day-old rice—all tossed in a flavorful sauce for a simple yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Steak and marinade:
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300g (10 oz) rump beef steak (top sirloin), thinly sliced (3–5 mm thick, ~1.5 cm squares)
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½ tsp dark soy sauce
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2 tsp oyster sauce
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2 tbsp water
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1 garlic clove, minced
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¼ tsp sugar
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⅜ tsp baking soda (heaped ¼ tsp)
Fried rice:
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2½ tbsp canola or peanut oil, divided
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4 green onions, cut into 1.25 cm lengths (separate white and green parts)
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2 garlic cloves, finely minced
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520g (1 lb / 4 cups) cooked, day-old long grain white rice, refrigerated overnight
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200g (7 oz, ~2 heaped cups) green beans, cut into 1.25 cm pieces
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½ cup peas (optional)
Fried rice sauce:
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2 tbsp fish sauce
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1½ tbsp oyster sauce
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½ tsp sugar
Scrambled eggs:
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2 eggs
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½ tsp sesame oil
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Pinch salt and pepper
Instructions
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Marinate steak slices with dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, garlic, sugar, and baking soda. Let sit 15–20 minutes to tenderize.
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Whisk eggs with sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Scramble in a hot pan until just set, then set aside.
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Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add white parts of green onions and marinated steak. Stir-fry until browned and cooked through, 2–3 minutes. Remove steak and set aside.
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Add remaining oil, garlic, green beans, and peas. Stir-fry 1–2 minutes until veggies are just tender.
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Add day-old rice, breaking up any clumps. Toss to combine with vegetables.
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Stir in fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar until rice is evenly coated.
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Return steak and scrambled eggs to the pan. Add green parts of green onions and toss everything until heated through.
- Optionally finish with a splash of sesame oil or a pat of butter. Serve hot.
Notes
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Use day-old rice for best texture and separation.
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Baking soda tenderizes the beef and is essential for soft, juicy steak.
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High heat is key for searing and flavor development.
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Prep ingredients before cooking, as stir-frying goes quickly.
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Swap veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for variety.
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Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu as alternate proteins.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers; refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water or oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired