This easy Ham Fried Rice Recipe is the tastiest way to use leftover ham. One pan, simple ingredients, and big flavor you’ll crave again and again.
author’s note
Better Than Takeout Ham Fried Rice!
I love making fried rice and I’ve worked on a version that I’m really proud of. So when I had a big pile of leftover Christmas ham, I had this little lightbulb moment.
I already knew it would be good mixed into my fried rice, but wow… it turned out even better than I expected. The ham added so much flavor, making the recipe taste extra savory and satisfying in the best way.
After that first bite, I knew I had to share this version. And honestly, now I’ll be making extra ham just to make sure I always have leftovers for this.
Ham Fried Rice Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredient | Tips or Swaps |
|---|---|
| Ham | Use smoked ham if possible. Dice very small so it browns fast. |
| Eggs | Scramble gently so they stay soft. |
| Day old rice | If you only have fresh rice, spread it on a sheet pan and chill or freeze to dry it out. |
| Frozen veggies | Peas, carrots, and corn work great. Add edamame for extra protein. |
| Garlic and ginger | Fresh, jarred, or paste works. Use whatever is easiest. |
| Oyster sauce | Hoisin or extra soy sauce can work in a pinch. |
| Soy sauce | Use low sodium for better control. |
| Toasted sesame oil | Do not skip. A tiny bit goes a long way. |
Quick Tip
Leftover rice is drier and holds up better in Ham Fried Rice. Fresh rice is too soft. No leftovers? Cook rice, cool 20 minutes, then freeze 30 minutes to dry it out.
How To Make This Ham Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep the sauce: Mix sauce ingredients in a jar.
- Scramble the eggs: Melt butter, scramble the eggs, and set aside.
- Stir-fry ham and veggies: Stir-fry the ham, onions, garlic, ginger, and frozen veggies.
- Add rice: Stir in day-old rice and sauce.
- Finish with the eggs: Add scrambled eggs, green onions, and sesame oil.
- Serve: Enjoy hot!
What This Ham Fried Rice Recipe With:
- Soup: A light miso or egg drop soup pairs well.
- Salad: A crisp Asian-style slaw or cucumber salad offers a refreshing contrast.
- Spring rolls: Vegetable or shrimp spring rolls add a crunchy, tasty side.
- Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings complement the rice’s flavor.
- Edamame: A simple, protein-packed lightly salted side.
Storage
- Cool ham and fried rice recipe to room temp.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in microwave or skillet with a bit of water or oil.
More Recipes To Use Leftover Ham:
Ham Fried Rice
Video
Equipment
- Large pan or wok
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cooked ham diced to small pieces
- 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
- 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1-1/2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 1-1/2 cups frozen veggies I use 1/2 cup corn and 1 cup peas and carrots
- 2 cups Cooked rice from the fridge, see note 1
- 2/3 cup green onions thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper or black pepper
Instructions
- Prep everything first; cooking goes fast! Combine all sauce ingredients in a small jar. Shake well and set aside.
- Heat butter in a large, nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Whisk eggs in a bowl, then pour into the pan once butter is melted. Scramble eggs until just cooked (still slightly wet); transfer to a plate. Chop or break up with a spatula and set aside.
- Increase heat to high. In the same pan, add oil, ham, onion, ginger, and garlic. Stir-fry until ham is golden, about 3–4 minutes. Add frozen vegetables and cook until excess water evaporates, 2–3 minutes. Stir in the rice and prepared sauce. Cook for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
- Mix through the cooked eggs, green onions, and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
