There's nothing quite like the rich, savory flavors of Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice sizzling in your pan. The aroma of garlic-infused butter mingling with tender, juicy steak and perfectly seasoned rice is simply irresistible. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience—one that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your own kitchen.

I first whipped up this recipe on a whim, trying to use up leftover steak from the night before. What started as a quick experiment soon became a staple in my house, loved by everyone from kids to guests. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and completely customizable.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice

Get ready to fall in love with this mouthwatering, one-pan meal. It's everything you want in a quick, flavorful dinner.

First, it's incredibly fast and easy. With just a handful of ingredients and a single skillet, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is tight.

Second, it's budget-friendly. This recipe makes the most of simple pantry staples and leftover steak, stretching a small amount of protein into a full, hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Third, the flavors are out of this world. The combination of garlic butter, soy sauce, and sesame oil coats each grain of rice in an addictive umami-packed sauce, while the steak adds a rich, meaty bite.

Finally, it's versatile. Got some extra veggies in the fridge? Toss them in. Prefer chicken or shrimp instead of steak? Go for it. This recipe is all about making it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a key role in creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Steak – The star of the dish! I love using ribeye or sirloin because they stay juicy and tender, but flank steak also works if sliced thinly against the grain. Be sure to let it rest before cutting to keep the juices locked in.

Day-old rice – Leftover rice is essential for the perfect fried rice texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, leading to a mushy dish. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out on a tray and let it cool before using.

Garlic butter – The rich, aromatic foundation of the dish. Freshly minced garlic sautéed in butter adds incredible depth of flavor that sets this fried rice apart from others.

Soy sauce and oyster sauce – A dynamic duo that brings saltiness, umami, and a hint of sweetness. Oyster sauce adds a rich, slightly caramelized flavor that complements the steak beautifully.

Vegetables – I typically use a mix of frozen peas, carrots, and green onions, but you can throw in whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach would work great.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice

Cooking this dish is straightforward, and once you start, the process moves quickly, so be sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.

Start by preparing your steak. If it's raw, season it with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot skillet with a little oil. Let it develop a beautiful brown crust before flipping. Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the pan and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. This is where the magic happens! The butter will take on the garlic’s incredible aroma, creating the perfect base for the rice.

Next, add your vegetables and cook until tender. If using frozen peas and carrots, they’ll warm up quickly in the hot skillet. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Push the veggies to one side and crack in the eggs. Scramble them quickly, then mix everything together before adding the rice. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and ensure every grain is coated in the garlic butter mixture.

Finally, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together, letting the flavors meld. Add the sliced steak back in, along with a sprinkle of green onions, and give it all one last toss.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This dish stores beautifully for later meals.

Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making for an even more delicious meal the next day.

To freeze, let the rice cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat from frozen in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive the texture.

Reheating is easy—just warm it up in a hot skillet with a touch of butter or oil to bring back its freshly-cooked flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the rice rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is how adaptable it is. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Swap the protein – Not in the mood for steak? Try chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Make it spicy – A drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a fiery kick.
Use different veggies – Feel free to throw in bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Anything goes!
Try a different rice – While jasmine rice is traditional, you can use brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Add extra toppings – A fried egg on top, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a dash of furikake can take this dish to the next level.

The beauty of this recipe is that there are no hard rules—just delicious possibilities. So go ahead, experiment, and make it your own!