Updated on January 2, 2026
This budget-friendly veggie fried rice turns leftover rice and simple vegetables into a fast, flavorful dinner and one of the best quick dinner ideas for busy weeknights. In just 10 minutes, you’ll stir-fry carrots, peas, and scallions with soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil for that classic takeout-style taste at home. Serve it as a light main or an easy side, and customize it with eggs, tofu, or chicken if you like. Perfect for cleaning out the fridge and keeping grocery costs low.
Budget Veggie Fried Rice
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, bell pepper)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
- tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Scramble eggs. Heat 1 tsp oil in wok over medium-high heat. Add eggs, scramble quickly, then remove and set aside.
- Cook vegetables. Add remaining oil, toss in mixed vegetables, and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender.
- Add rice. Stir in cooked rice, breaking up clumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes until heated through.
- Season. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well.
- Finish. Stir in scrambled eggs and green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use leftover rice for best texture.
- Add tofu, chicken, or shrimp for extra protein.
- Great way to use up fridge veggies.
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Can I use leftover rice for this veggie fried rice?
Yes, leftover cold rice works best for fried rice because the grains are drier and less sticky. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray and let it cool completely, or refrigerate it for 30–60 minutes before stir-frying to prevent the rice from turning mushy.
How can I add protein to this budget veggie fried rice?
You can easily boost the protein by scrambling a couple of eggs in the pan before adding the rice, or by stirring in cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp at the end. Use whatever you already have on hand to keep the recipe budget-friendly and reduce food waste.
If you enjoy fast, budget-friendly dinners like this, try our Quick Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta for another 30-minute weeknight meal, or One-Pot Beef Chili when you’re craving something extra cozy and hearty.
Love simple everyday & holiday recipes? Get our free 10-Holiday-Recipes cookbook plus new easy recipes every week.
Get the free cookbook →
