If you’ve ever dreamed of turning humble fried rice into a restaurant-quality feast at home, this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe is the answer you didn’t know you needed. Juicy, perfectly seared steak cubes mingle with rich garlic butter and fragrant sauces to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. It’s comfort food elevated—uncomplicated to make but full of those savory notes that make each bite unforgettable. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be making it for every occasion that calls for something quick, tasty, and downright satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe means gathering a few simple, everyday ingredients, each playing a key role in layering the flavors and delivering that perfect balance of richness and freshness.
- Ribeye or sirloin steak (10 oz / 280g): Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful steak cubes that will shine in the dish.
- Soy sauce (2 total tablespoons): Adds umami depth both in marinating the steak and seasoning the rice perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the steak marinate and gives a subtle fruity undertone.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a subtle heat kick that complements the garlic beautifully.
- Cooked rice (3 cups, chilled): Day-old rice is best as it’s dryer and won’t clump, delivering perfect fried rice texture.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): The star for that luscious garlic butter base that coats the rice delightfully.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh and fragrant, garlic infuses the whole dish with a mouthwatering aroma.
- Sesame oil (2 teaspoons): Just a little for that nutty, toasty flavor that makes the dish sing.
- Oyster sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle sweetness and richness that perfectly balances the savory notes.
- Green onions (1/2 cup, chopped): Provides a fresh, crisp bite and lovely color contrast to the dish.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): To finish and fine-tune your flavor profile just right.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Start by tossing those tender steak cubes with soy sauce, olive oil, and black pepper in a bowl. Letting them soak up those flavors for 15 minutes makes all the difference—this step ensures each bite of steak is juicy and packed with savoriness that complements the fried rice perfectly.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat your skillet or wok over medium-high and add the marinated steak. Sear the cubes for about 2 to 3 minutes—just until they’re browned on the outside but still tender inside. This quick sear locks in flavor and texture. Once done, set the steak aside; you’ll bring it back into the mix later.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base
Lower the heat a bit and add butter to the same pan—this is where the magic starts. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant, that delicious smell filling your kitchen in about a minute. This buttery garlic goodness forms the heart of the dish, infusing the rice with irresistible flavor.
Step 4: Crisp Up the Rice
Turn the heat back up high and add your chilled cooked rice. Toss it thoroughly with the garlic butter so every grain is well coated. Spread the rice flat in the pan to allow some of it to crisp up slightly—that little bit of char adds texture and a deeper flavor.
Step 5: Season the Rice
Next, pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce, stirring everything together. These sauces bring a perfect balance of salty, nutty, and sweet flavors that make this fried rice stand out. Keep tossing until the rice looks shiny and evenly mixed.
Step 6: Combine Steak and Rice
Return the seared steak cubes to your skillet, tossing them gently with the rice. Stir in the chopped green onions for that bright, fresh pop. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Now your Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe is nearly ready to delight.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer everything to a serving bowl or plate. The rich aroma and vibrant colors make it a feast for the senses before your first bite. Your savory, garlic butter steak fried rice is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even more, consider sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. A few toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and a nutty accent that complements the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. A crisp cucumber salad can add refreshing contrast to this rich and hearty fried rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the garlic butter steak fried rice in little lettuce cups for a handheld option. Alternatively, top it with a fried egg or drizzle some spicy sriracha mayo to amp up the flavors and make the meal even more satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover garlic butter steak fried rice keeps especially well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more after resting overnight, making your next meal even tastier.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely too. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until hot and fresh, or microwave covered for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye or sirloin are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, flank or skirt steak can work too. Just be sure to slice them thinly or cut into small cubes for quick searing.
Is day-old rice necessary for fried rice?
Day-old chilled rice is best because it’s drier and will fry up nicely without becoming mushy. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and chill it to remove moisture before frying.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can swap steak for firm tofu or mushrooms and use vegan butter along with soy and oyster sauce substitutes. Just adjust cooking times to suit your chosen ingredients for an equally delicious version.
How spicy is this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe?
This recipe is mild and savory, with no added chili heat by default. You can personalize it by adding chili flakes or hot sauce if you like a bit of a kick.
What is the best oil to use for frying the rice?
Traditional fried rice often uses vegetable or canola oil, but this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe relies on butter for richness and sesame oil for flavor. Olive oil is used only lightly in the steak marinade.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe is a brilliant way to turn simple ingredients into a spectacular meal full of flavor, texture, and comforting warmth. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and tastes like you put in hours. Give it a try—you’ll soon find this recipe becoming one of your absolute favorites!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A delicious and savory Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice featuring tender marinated ribeye steak cubes seared to perfection, combined with fragrant garlic butter-infused rice, enhanced by a flavorful blend of soy, sesame, and oyster sauces. This quick and satisfying stir-fry is perfect for a hearty weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 10 oz (280g) ribeye or sirloin steak, cubed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Fried Rice
- 3 cups cooked rice, chilled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, toss the cubed ribeye or sirloin steak with soy sauce, olive oil, and black pepper. Allow it to marinate for 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Steak: Heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak cubes and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes until browned on the outside but still tender inside. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Garlic Butter: Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring continuously until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
- Fry the Rice: Increase the heat to high and add the chilled cooked rice to the skillet. Toss the rice with the garlic butter, then spread it evenly to let it crisp slightly for added texture.
- Add Sauces: Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated and heated through thoroughly.
- Combine Steak and Green Onions: Return the cooked steak to the skillet and toss with the rice mixture. Stir in the chopped green onions and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Transfer the garlic butter steak fried rice to a serving bowl and enjoy this flavorful and comforting dish.
Notes
- For best texture, use day-old chilled rice to prevent clumping and achieve crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce based on your salt preference.
- Feel free to substitute ribeye or sirloin with any preferred tender steak cut.
- Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can add color and nutrition.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the sodium content if desired.
