There's nothing quite like the combination of tender, juicy steak, fragrant garlic, and buttery rice sizzling together in a hot pan. This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together rich umami flavors with a satisfying, crispy bite.

I first made this recipe on a whim, using leftover steak from the night before. Little did I know, it would quickly become a family favorite. The way the garlic-infused butter coats every grain of rice, paired with the hearty, caramelized steak pieces, makes this dish irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice

Get ready to elevate your fried rice game with this mouthwatering recipe. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it also comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

First off, it's quick and easy. With just a handful of simple ingredients and about 20 minutes, you’ll have a complete meal ready to go. No need for takeout when you can whip this up in a flash!

Secondly, it’s a great way to use up leftovers. If you have some cooked rice and a bit of steak from a previous meal, this dish transforms them into something completely new and exciting.

Plus, the flavors are out of this world. The combination of garlic, butter, soy sauce, and tender steak creates an umami-packed bite that you’ll keep coming back to.

Finally, it’s highly customizable. Want to add veggies? Toss in some peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Prefer chicken or shrimp? Swap them in easily. This dish adapts to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering bold flavors and a perfectly textured dish.

Steak – The star of this dish! Ribeye, sirloin, or even filet mignon work beautifully. You want a cut that’s tender and flavorful, with a bit of marbling for extra juiciness. Slice it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is a must for this recipe. It infuses the butter with an irresistible aroma and deepens the savory flavors of the dish. Don’t skimp on it!

Butter – This adds richness and enhances the overall flavor. I recommend using unsalted butter so you can better control the seasoning.

Day-old rice – The secret to perfect fried rice! Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and sticky, so using rice that’s been refrigerated helps achieve that signature crispy texture.

Soy sauce and oyster sauce – These two provide the perfect balance of salty and slightly sweet umami flavors. You can adjust the amount to your taste preference.

For equipment, you’ll need a large skillet or wok to get that classic fried rice texture. A well-heated pan ensures the rice gets slightly crispy while staying fluffy inside.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice

Making this dish is incredibly simple, but a few key steps will help you achieve restaurant-quality results. Let’s dive in!

Start by preparing your steak. Slice it into small, bite-sized pieces and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, then add a bit of oil. Once the pan is hot, add the steak in a single layer and let it sear without stirring for a minute or two to develop a beautiful crust. Flip and cook for another couple of minutes until it’s just cooked through. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The aroma at this stage is absolutely incredible!

Next, add your cold, day-old rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and toss it in the garlicky butter. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute, then stir. This allows the rice to crisp up slightly, adding texture to the dish.

Once the rice is evenly coated and warmed through, pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir well to distribute the flavors. If you like a bit of heat, now’s the time to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

Finally, return the cooked steak to the pan and toss everything together. Let it cook for another minute to meld the flavors, then remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and color.

In just about 20 minutes, your Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is ready to serve. The combination of crispy rice, savory steak, and garlicky butter is pure perfection.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! This dish stores well and makes for an easy meal the next day.

To store, let the fried rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For freezing, place the fried rice in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.

To reheat, simply warm it in a hot skillet with a little oil or butter. This helps restore the crispy texture and freshens up the flavors. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rice too soft.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some ways to switch things up:

Swap the protein – Not a fan of steak? Try this recipe with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Add veggies – Boost the nutrition by adding peas, carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli. Just sauté them before adding the rice.
Use cauliflower rice – For a lower-carb alternative, swap regular rice for cauliflower rice. Just be sure not to overcook it!
Make it spicy – Love a little heat? Add sriracha, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
Try different seasonings – Instead of soy sauce, experiment with teriyaki sauce or gochujang for a different twist on flavor.

This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is a dish that never gets old. With its rich, savory flavors and endless customization options, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Try it out and let me know your favorite variations!