There's nothing quite like the combination of tender, juicy steak and the rich, savory goodness of garlic butter. When paired with perfectly fried rice, the result is a mouthwatering dish that's both satisfying and incredibly easy to make.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a way to use up leftover steak from a weekend barbecue. With a handful of pantry staples and a sizzling hot skillet, I transformed those leftovers into a dish that quickly became a family favorite. Now, it's a go-to meal when I need something quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to please.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that combines bold flavors with effortless cooking. This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is a total game-changer for busy weeknights or when you're craving takeout but want a homemade twist.

First off, it's incredibly quick and easy to make. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table, making it perfect for those hectic days when time is short.

It's also a great way to use up leftovers. Got some extra rice and steak sitting in your fridge? This recipe transforms them into something spectacular, minimizing food waste while maximizing flavor.

Another reason to love this dish is its rich, buttery taste. The combination of garlic butter, soy sauce, and seared steak creates an irresistible umami depth that makes every bite unforgettable.

Finally, this fried rice is completely customizable. You can swap out the steak for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu, and add in your favorite veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Steak is the star of this dish, and I recommend using ribeye or sirloin for their tenderness and marbling. However, if you have leftover steak, that works beautifully too. Just be sure to slice it thinly so it reheats quickly without becoming tough.

The garlic butter is what makes this fried rice truly special. Freshly minced garlic, combined with butter, creates a rich, aromatic base that infuses every grain of rice with deep, savory goodness.

Cold, day-old rice is key to achieving the perfect fried rice texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and sticky, while refrigerated rice firms up, allowing it to fry up beautifully without becoming mushy.

Soy sauce and oyster sauce bring essential umami flavor. The soy sauce provides a salty, savory backbone, while the oyster sauce adds a hint of sweetness and depth.

Finally, a handful of vegetables like peas, carrots, and green onions not only add color and crunch but also enhance the overall flavor profile. If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice

Making this dish is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step so you can get that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Start by prepping all your ingredients. Slice the steak into thin strips and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mince the garlic, chop your veggies, and measure out your sauces so everything is ready to go once you start cooking.

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the steak in a single layer, letting it cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until beautifully browned. Flip the pieces and cook for another minute before transferring the steak to a plate.

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then toss in your vegetables. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes until they’re slightly softened but still crisp.

Now, push the veggies to one side and add the cold rice to the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute before stirring to break up any clumps. Drizzle in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to coat every grain of rice with that incredible umami flavor.

Finally, return the seared steak to the pan, stirring everything together until heated through. If you like, finish with a bit more melted butter for extra richness. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this dish stores beautifully! Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra butter to revive the moisture. You can also microwave it, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the fried rice in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun ways to switch it up:

If you’re not a fan of steak, try using chicken, shrimp, or even tofu instead. Just follow the same cooking process, adjusting the cooking time based on the protein you choose.

Want to add more vegetables? Feel free to toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

For a spicy kick, stir in some sriracha, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños while cooking. The added heat pairs beautifully with the richness of the garlic butter.

Looking for a healthier version? Swap out white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice to make this dish lower in carbs but still just as delicious.

However you customize it, this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is a must-try. Experiment with different ingredients, find what works best for you, and enjoy every flavorful bite!