Garlic butter steak fried rice is a bold, satisfying dish that combines tender steak, fragrant garlic butter, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings into one irresistible bowl. It brings together the richness of a steakhouse-style meal with the comfort and convenience of fried rice, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something hearty and flavorful.
This recipe transforms simple leftovers into something special. Cold, day-old rice becomes beautifully crisp in a hot pan, while juicy steak and aromatic garlic butter infuse every grain with deep, savory flavor. The result is a well-balanced dish that feels indulgent without being complicated.
If you enjoy meals that highlight the magic of garlic butter and tender beef, you’ll also love Garlic Butter Steak Cubes, a popular favorite that delivers big flavor in a fast and approachable way.
Garlic butter steak fried rice is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again because it’s versatile, satisfying, and incredibly easy to customize.
Table of Contents

Garlic Butter Steak Fried Rice – 20-Minute High-Protein Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1 – Prep the Steak: Cut steak into small cubes and season with soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

- Step 2 – Sear the Steak: Heat butter in a skillet and sear the steak cubes for 2–3 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.

- Step 3 – Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant.

- Step 4 – Add the Rice & Veggies: Stir in the cooked rice and vegetables. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing well.

- Step 5 – Add Eggs & Steak: Push rice to the side, scramble the eggs, then mix everything together and add the seared steak back in.

- Step 6 – Serve: Top with green onions and extra butter if desired. Serve hot.

Notes
- Cold rice works best and prevents clumping.
- Use high heat for a real fried rice texture.
- Ribeye gives maximum flavor but sirloin works great too.
- Add chili flakes if you want it spicy.
Why this garlic butter steak fried rice works
Great fried rice starts with the right technique. Using cold, leftover rice prevents mushiness and helps each grain stay separate. Cooking the steak first builds flavor and creates browned bits in the pan that later season the rice.
Garlic butter forms the heart of this recipe. As it melts and sizzles, it coats the rice and steak, creating a rich, savory base. Soy sauce and optional oyster sauce add depth and umami, while eggs bring softness and balance.
This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can add vegetables you have on hand, adjust the seasoning to taste, and easily scale it up or down. The end result is a dish that tastes better than takeout and comes together in under 30 minutes.
If you enjoy quick beef stir-fries with bold flavor, Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is another excellent option that delivers similar satisfaction.
Ingredient notes (what truly matters)
Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card, but these notes help ensure great results.
Steak
Sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak work well. Slice thinly against the grain.
Rice
Day-old jasmine or long-grain rice is ideal.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is essential for strong flavor.
Butter
Adds richness and helps coat the rice.
Eggs
Provide softness and protein.
Soy sauce
Adds salt and umami.
Vegetables
Peas, carrots, green onions, bell peppers, or frozen mixed vegetables all work well.
Tips for the best results
- Use cold rice
- Cook steak quickly over high heat
- Do not overcrowd the pan
- Taste and adjust seasoning
- Finish with green onions or sesame oil
Variations you can try
- Add shrimp or chicken
- Make it spicy with chili paste
- Use brown rice
- Add pineapple for sweetness
- Use garlic chili oil
Serving ideas
Garlic butter steak fried rice is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs well with simple sides like cucumber salad, steamed broccoli, or egg rolls.
If you’re in the mood for another creamy, comforting rice-based meal, Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo makes a great cross-cluster choice.
Storage and reheating
Storage
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use fresh rice?
Yes, but texture is better with cold rice.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes.
What steak cut is best?
Sirloin or ribeye.
Final thoughts
Garlic butter steak fried rice is a perfect fusion of comfort food and bold flavor. It’s quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.
For general background on fried rice, you can consult Wikipedia – Fried rice.