If there’s a dish that bridges comfort food with fun, budget-friendly creativity, it’s got to be Spam Fried Rice. This colorful and flavorful meal turns humble pantry staples and leftover rice into a crave-worthy, satisfying bowl that hits every nostalgic note of home-cooked goodness. The salty-sweet cubes of Spam, vibrant veggies, and fluffy eggs come together in minutes for a fried rice that’s as inviting at a family gathering as it is for a solo midnight snack. Once you dive into this recipe, don’t be surprised if Spam Fried Rice becomes your go-to solution for quick, delicious dinners any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient for this easy Spam Fried Rice is thoughtfully chosen to maximize flavor without fuss. You don’t need fancy tricks here — just these essential components that bring texture, color, and that signature savory taste.
- Cooked white rice (2 cups, preferably day-old): Cold, leftover rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and doesn’t get mushy when stir-fried.
- Spam (1 can, 12 oz, diced): The star ingredient! Spam crisps up beautifully and brings a satisfyingly salty bite to every spoonful.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Lets you get that quick, even fry for both Spam and eggs without adding extra flavor — so every ingredient shines.
- Eggs (2, lightly beaten): Soft scrambled eggs create richness and pockets of tenderness throughout the fried rice.
- Frozen peas and carrots (1/2 cup, thawed): Adds color, natural sweetness, and a bit of crunch — no chopping required.
- Green onions (3, sliced): Their mild, fresh flavor brightens the whole dish and gives it that “finished” look.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a punch of aromatic depth, making the whole kitchen smell irresistible.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Infuses the rice with umami-rich, savory depth and just the right touch of saltiness.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): A drizzle at the end gives a nutty aroma that instantly transports you to your favorite Asian takeout spot.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Fine-tunes all the flavors so every bite is perfectly seasoned.
How to Make Spam Fried Rice
Step 1: Crisp Up the Spam
Start your adventure by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced Spam and let the cubes sizzle until they’re golden brown and crispy on every surface, about 5–7 minutes. This is where Spam Fried Rice gets its irresistible, meaty crunch. Once the Spam is nice and crispy, scoop it out and set aside in a bowl — try not to snack on too many pieces!
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan, then pour in your lightly beaten eggs. Let them set for a few seconds, then gently scramble until just cooked through but still soft. Push the finished eggs off to one side of the pan to make room for your veggies.
Step 3: Sauté Veggies and Aromatics
Now, add the minced garlic, thawed peas and carrots, and the sliced green onions to the pan. Stir everything together for 2–3 minutes, breathing in that garlicky goodness as the veggies become tender and the green onions mellow out. This step builds the flavor foundation for your Spam Fried Rice.
Step 4: Add Rice and Bring Everything Together
Crumble your day-old rice into the pan, breaking up any clumps for maximum fluffiness. Return the crispy Spam to the skillet as well. Stir everything together, tossing generously so the eggs, Spam, and veggies are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Season and Stir-Fry to Perfection
Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing everything to coat the rice evenly. Keep stir-frying for another 3–5 minutes, letting flavors meld and the rice get a bit toasty in spots. Give it a taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve your Spam Fried Rice hot and get ready for smiles all around.
How to Serve Spam Fried Rice
Garnishes
Top your Spam Fried Rice with a light sprinkle of sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a dash of chili flakes for a vibrant, mouthwatering finish. If you love a little heat, a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil adds pep and color.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or a bowl of miso soup. If you’re looking for a full spread, serve with Asian pickled vegetables or crispy spring rolls for extra crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a bit playful? Press warm Spam Fried Rice into a small bowl, then invert onto plates for a tidy dome shape. Or, scoop it into lettuce cups for a fresh, hand-held presentation at parties or lunches that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover Spam Fried Rice cool to room temperature, then transfer into an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This meal is just as satisfying the next day, and the flavors get even better overnight!
Freezing
Want to stock up? Portion cooled Spam Fried Rice into resealable bags or containers, pressing out extra air, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a speedy meal that tastes as good as fresh.
Reheating
To revive Spam Fried Rice, heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the rice and let it cook until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, fluffing in between, to bring everything back to its delicious, steamy self.
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?
Absolutely! While day-old rice gives you the best separated, non-mushy texture, you can use freshly cooked rice in a pinch. Just spread it out on a tray, let it cool completely, and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to dry it out slightly before stir-frying.
What other veggies work well in Spam Fried Rice?
You can toss in almost any quick-cooking veggie: bell peppers, corn, napa cabbage, bean sprouts, or even diced zucchini. This recipe is great for cleaning out the fridge and adding pops of color and nutrition.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap out the regular soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative like tamari or coconut aminos, and double-check your Spam label to ensure it doesn’t contain wheat derivatives.
Is there a way to make Spam Fried Rice vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute Spam with firm tofu cubes (pan-fried for crispness) and your favorite veggies. A dash of smoked paprika or mushroom soy sauce can help replicate some of the deep, savory flavor.
Any tips for extra flavor or spice?
Try adding a spoonful of kimchi, chopped pineapple, or a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra punch. For heat lovers, a squirt of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili oil brings a totally new vibe to the classic Spam Fried Rice.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something nostalgic and downright joyful about a big bowl of Spam Fried Rice. It’s the ultimate in easy comfort food and turns every ingredient into gold. Give this recipe a try the next time you need a fast, fun meal — your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!
Print
Spam Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Spam fried rice recipe that’s perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner. This Asian-American inspired dish is packed with savory Spam, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection.
Ingredients
Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
Spam:
- 1 can (12 oz) Spam, diced
Vegetable Oil:
- 2 tablespoons
Eggs:
- 2, lightly beaten
Peas and Carrots:
- 1/2 cup frozen, thawed
Green Onions:
- 3, sliced
Garlic:
- 2 cloves, minced
Soy Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons
Sesame Oil:
- 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper:
- To taste
Instructions
- Cook Spam: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Cook diced Spam until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Scramble Eggs: In the same pan, add remaining oil. Pour in beaten eggs, scramble, and set aside.
- Add Ingredients: Cook garlic, peas, carrots, and green onions until tender. Add rice and Spam back to the pan.
- Season and Serve: Drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir-fry until heated through. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- For best texture, use chilled, day-old rice.
- Substitute Spam with ham or tofu for variation.
- Add sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 970 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
