There's something magical about the combination of sizzling steak, fragrant garlic, and rich butter. This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is the perfect blend of hearty protein, fluffy rice, and umami-packed flavors, all tossed together in one pan. Whether you're craving a quick weeknight meal or looking to use up leftover rice, this dish delivers comfort in every bite.

I first made this recipe on a whim, using leftover grilled steak from the night before. One bite in, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The buttery garlic infusion paired with perfectly seared steak and crisp-tender vegetables makes this a go-to dinner in my household.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice

If you're a fan of quick, flavorful meals, this recipe is about to become a staple in your kitchen.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. You can have this dish ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is short but you still want something delicious.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using leftover steak or an affordable cut like sirloin ensures you get all the flavor without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose day-old rice into something new and exciting.

The garlic butter sauce takes it to another level. The rich, savory depth of butter, garlic, and soy sauce gives every grain of rice a boost of umami-packed goodness.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Want to add extra veggies? Go for it. Prefer chicken or shrimp instead of steak? No problem. This dish is adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The key to this dish is using the right ingredients to enhance its bold flavors. Here’s what makes it shine:

Steak: I love using sirloin or ribeye for their tenderness and rich flavor. If you’re using leftover steak, simply dice it up and toss it in at the end to warm through.

Rice: Day-old rice works best. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and can turn mushy when stir-fried. If you only have fresh rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool for 15–20 minutes before using.

Garlic Butter Sauce: A mix of butter, garlic, and soy sauce creates a luscious coating for the rice. The butter adds richness, the garlic provides aroma, and the soy sauce deepens the savory taste.

Vegetables: Classic fried rice ingredients like onions, peas, and carrots add color and texture. Feel free to customize with bell peppers, corn, or even spinach.

Eggs: Scrambled eggs bring in a subtle creaminess and help bind the rice together while adding extra protein.

No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet or wok to get that signature fried rice texture!

How To Make This Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice

Making this dish is simple and rewarding, with just a few key steps to ensure maximum flavor.

Start by preparing your steak. If using fresh steak, season it well with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot skillet with a bit of oil until it develops a rich, brown crust. Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the pan and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

In the same skillet, add a little more oil and toss in your diced onions, carrots, and peas. Sauté until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Push the veggies to one side of the pan and add beaten eggs to the other side. Let them cook undisturbed for a few seconds, then gently scramble them and mix with the vegetables.

Now, it’s time for the star ingredient—garlic butter. Melt butter in the pan, then add minced garlic, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once fragrant, toss in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps as you stir it into the buttery garlic mixture.

Return the sliced steak to the pan and drizzle everything with soy sauce. Stir well to ensure the flavors coat each grain of rice, then let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two to develop a slightly crispy texture.

Total cook time is about 30 minutes, making this an ideal weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! This fried rice stores beautifully for quick meals later.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled rice to an airtight container and store it for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or butter to revive its texture.

If you’d like to freeze it, portion the fried rice into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Protein Swap: Not a steak fan? Try chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different take on this fried rice.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Extra Spice: Love heat? Add a dash of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
Saucy Twist: Stir in a bit of hoisin sauce or oyster sauce for extra depth and a hint of sweetness.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some Parmesan or shredded mozzarella on top for a melty, indulgent finish.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice is sure to be a hit. Give it a try tonight and savor every flavorful bite!