
Craving some all-in-one comfort? Bacon fried rice ticks every box. Bacon turns golden and nutty, eggs stay soft and fluffy, and sweet onions sneak in classic takeout vibes. Stir in whatever veggies you have—including leftovers! For me, this dish is the fix when the fridge looks sad and I want dinner that nobody complains about.
First time I cooked this after one of those extra-long weekdays? The house smelled amazing and there wasn't a single spoonful left. That’s how it became our family’s go-to cozy meal.
Irresistible Ingredients
- Chopped thick-cut bacon: Adds crunch and deep smoky taste. Pick thick slices for bigger bacon bites.
- Diced onion: Brings every bite a bit of sweet and savory flavor. Fresh, heavy onions are the best.
- Minced garlic: Makes things really fragrant. Fresh garlic cloves work way better than jarred.
- Frozen peas and carrots: Bright colors and a little sweetness. Just toss them in—no need to thaw first.
- Cold cooked long-grain rice: Old rice doesn’t go mushy and picks up all the flavor. Yesterday’s rice is perfect.
- Beaten large eggs: Eggs hold everything together and add body. Fresh eggs make a huge difference.
- Soy sauce: This sauce locks in the umami. Brewed soy sauce adds some serious depth.
- Oyster sauce: Boosts savoriness with a touch of sweet. Good oyster sauce is shiny and caramel-hued.
- Sesame oil: A drizzle gives a lovely roasted finish. Hold off till the end so it stays really flavorful.
- Salt and pepper: Good sea salt and fresh black pepper pop the seasoned taste right before serving.
- Chopped green onions: For a punch of fresh and zippy flavor. Toss over everything just before eating.
Simple Steps
- Finish It Off:
- Fire up the heat to high and splash in your soy, oyster, and sesame oil. Add the bacon back, stir well, and flavor to taste with salt and pepper.
- Egg Time:
- Pour the beaten eggs on the cleared side of your skillet. Scramble quick till set but still a bit soft, then mix that right into the rice pile.
- Toss in the Rice:
- Break up your cold rice and work it into the mix for two to four minutes. Let it heat and get a little bacon goodness in every bite. Push to the side to make space for eggs.
- Garlic and Veggies Go In:
- Chuck in garlic, peas, and carrots. Stir constantly. Let them heat for a couple minutes—just enough for the veggies to lose their chill and the garlic to mellow out.
- Cook Your Onions:
- Turn the heat to medium and drop in onion. Let it cook in bacon drippings until sweet and soft, about three to five minutes.
- Bacon Gets Crispy:
- Spread chopped bacon in a cold skillet, turn on medium heat. Let it slowly get crisp, stirring now and then. Scoop the pieces out and keep that tasty fat in the pan.
- Final Touch:
- Finish by scattering green onions over the skillet before serving. Eat right away.

Rice plus bacon? In my house, that’s unbeatable. That first bite—steamy rice and crunchy bacon—is my favorite, especially after seeing my kid’s big smile the first time they tried it!
Leftover Tips
Pop extra fried rice in a sealed container and stash in the fridge. It keeps tasty for three days. Take the chill off before reheating for the best texture. Use a pan with a splash of broth or water to refresh. Skip long microwaving—it dries things out.
Swap Ideas
Try turkey bacon, ham, or smoked tofu to change up the protein. Hoisin sauce steps in for oyster sauce. Any leftover or frozen veggies will work. Sub in brown or jasmine rice if you’re out of long grain.

Serving Ideas
It’s awesome as a main but pairs perfectly with cucumber salad, light soup, or steamed dumplings. Dress it up by adding a fried egg or showering on sesame seeds each bowl.
Cultural Insight
Fried rice comes from East Asian kitchens and was always about making old rice shine again. The smoky scent made in a super hot pan gets called wok hei in Chinese. Bacon’s the American spin for an old-school dish now bursting with new flavors.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Is it okay to use rice from yesterday?
Totally! Cold, cooked rice that’s been in the fridge is perfect. It’s less sticky and fries up just right.
- → How can I get bacon good and crispy?
Pop bacon into a cool pan, let it heat up slowly, and cook until it’s as crunchy and golden as you like.
- → What if I want to toss in more veggies?
Go for it! Things like bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn are awesome. They make it even tastier and super colorful.
- → Need something instead of oyster sauce?
Give hoisin or just an extra dash of soy sauce a try—they’ll give you a tasty twist and still keep it savory.
- → What else can I add for protein?
Try tossing in shrimp, tofu, or bits of cooked chicken. They’re all a great swap or addition with the bacon.