Kielbasa Fried Rice
Kielbasa Fried Rice
This easy Kielbasa Fried Rice is a quick and satisfying one-pan dinner that’s packed with smoky sausage, fluffy fried rice, tender vegetables, scrambled eggs, and savory Asian-inspired flavors. It’s the perfect way to use leftover rice and comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal for busy families.
Loaded with crispy bites of kielbasa, sweet peas and carrots, sautéed onions, and scrambled eggs, every bite is full of flavor. Finish it with soy sauce and a drizzle of sesame oil for a homemade fried rice recipe everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Great way to use leftover rice
- One-pan dinner
- Family-friendly
- Packed with protein and vegetables
- Better than takeout
- Perfect for meal prep
Ingredients
- 1 (14-ounce) kielbasa sausage, diced
- 4 cups cooked and chilled white rice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
How to Make Kielbasa Fried Rice
Step 1
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the diced kielbasa and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and lightly crispy.
Transfer the kielbasa to a plate.
Step 2
Add the butter to the skillet, then stir in the diced onion. Cook for about 4 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3
Push the onions to one side of the skillet and pour in the beaten eggs.
Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then stir them into the onions.
Step 4
Add the frozen peas and carrots and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
Step 5
Stir in the chilled cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice begins to lightly fry.
Step 6
Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet.
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then season with black pepper.
Stir everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
Step 7
Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Fried Rice
- Use day-old cold rice for the best texture.
- Let the kielbasa brown well for extra flavor.
- Cook over medium-high heat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Add extra soy sauce to taste.
Variations
- Add broccoli
- Stir in mushrooms
- Add diced bell peppers
- Use smoked sausage instead of kielbasa
- Make it spicy with sriracha
- Add pineapple for a sweet-and-savory twist
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes! Freeze cooled fried rice in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of rice works best?
Cold, day-old white rice works best because it fries beautifully without becoming mushy.
Can I use fresh rice?
You can, but freshly cooked rice is softer and won’t crisp up as well. If needed, spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes before cooking.
Can I use another sausage?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage, turkey kielbasa, and even andouille sausage all work well in this recipe.
More Easy Dinner Recipes You’ll Love
If you love easy skillet dinners, be sure to browse my favorite Kielbasa Recipes, Fried Rice Recipes, One-Pan Dinners, 30-Minute Meals, Ground Beef Recipes, Chicken Dinners, and Easy Family Dinner Recipes for more weeknight inspiration.
