Spam Fried Rice is the easiest way to turn pantry staples into a quick, flavorful Asian-inspired meal that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner in under 25 minutes.
This beloved Spam Fried Rice recipe combines tender cubes of Spam with day-old rice, veggies, and a simple sauce for a delicious dish that’s both budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing. I first stumbled on this recipe on a rainy afternoon when the grocery store was closed—left with just a can of Spam, some rice, and frozen veggies. Since then, it’s become my go-to comfort meal, especially when I’m craving something salty, savory, and a little nostalgic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Ready in under 25 minutes—seriously, faster than takeout.
• Uses pantry and freezer ingredients you likely already have.
• Perfect for transforming leftovers into a brand-new meal.
• One-pan cooking means less cleanup (hallelujah!).
• Customizable with any veggies or proteins on hand.
• Family-friendly: kids and grownups both give it two thumbs up.
• Great for breakfast fry-ups or a quick dinner rush.
• Delivers that crave-worthy Asian flavor without fuss.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old for best texture)
6 ounces Spam (half a can), diced into 1/2-inch cubes (Hormel brand works great)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth)
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (finishing touch)
2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or canola)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Tip: Rinse leftover rice briefly under cool water to separate grains if it’s clumped. Pat it dry for perfect stir-fried texture.
Directions
1. Heat the pan
Warm a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat—this step ensures nothing sticks and gives you a chance to test your heat.
- Crisp the Spam
Toss in diced Spam and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until edges turn golden. Crunchy bits add texture, so let them brown without burning. - Sauté garlic and veggies
Push Spam to one side, add garlic to the empty area, and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook 2 minutes until heated through. - Scramble the eggs
Push everything aside, pour beaten eggs into the center, and gently scramble until set. This makes fluffy ribbons that coat each grain. - Stir in rice and sauces
Add rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Toss with a spatula, breaking up clumps and mixing evenly. You’ll see steam rise—that’s flavor happening. - Season and finish
Sprinkle black pepper, drizzle sesame oil, and toss one last time. Taste and adjust soy or pepper as needed. - Garnish and serve
Transfer to plates, sprinkle with green onions, and dig in. You can top with a drizzle of sriracha or a side of kimchi for extra zing.
Servings & Timing
Yield: 4 hearty servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes (including chopping and thawing)
Cook Time: 15 minutes over medium-high heat
Total Time: 25 minutes from pantry to plate
Variations
• Swap Spam for diced ham or crisped bacon for a smoky twist.
• Stir in pineapple chunks for a sweet-savory island flair.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping Spam and using firm tofu cubes.
• Heat it up with chili flakes or a swirl of sriracha.
• Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for extra fiber or low-carb.
• Add kimchi and sesame seeds for a tangy, Korean-style spin.
Storage & Reheating
Store cooled Spam Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best texture, don’t freeze—it turns mushy. To reheat, sprinkle a few drops of water over rice, microwave covered for 1–2 minutes, or toss in a hot skillet until warmed through. Make-ahead tip: cook rice the day before and keep covered in the fridge for faster prep.
Notes
• Day-old rice is a game-changer—you’ll avoid soggy grains.
• Use a hot pan and don’t overcrowd; too much rice at once steams instead of fries.
• I learned that adding eggs early makes them rubbery—scramble them late for fluffy bits.
• Taste as you go—soy sauce strength varies by brand.
• A dash of toasted sesame seeds adds crunch and aroma if you have them on hand.
FAQs
Q: Can I use freshly cooked rice?
A: You can, but let it cool and dry on a tray first—fresh rice clumps easily.
Q: Is Spam unhealthy?
A: It’s processed meat, so enjoy in moderation and balance with veggies.
Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and check your oyster sauce label.
Q: Can I prep ingredients ahead?
A: Absolutely—dice Spam and chop veggies the night before.
Q: What’s the best pan for fried rice?
A: A heavy skillet or carbon-steel wok holds heat well and prevents sticking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Freezing alters texture—better to eat within 4 days.
Q: What sides go with Spam Fried Rice?
A: Quick pickled carrots, steamed broccoli, or a soft-boiled egg.
Q: How spicy is this?
A: It’s mild by default—add chili oil or fresh chilies to taste.
Conclusion
Spam Fried Rice is your quick fix for a delicious, pantry-friendly meal that everyone will love. It’s simple, adaptable, and packed with flavor—perfect for any time you need a fuss-free dinner or a filling breakfast. Give this easy Spam Fried Rice recipe a whirl, share your tweaks, and don’t forget to explore my other rice dishes for more simple, crowd-pleasing meals!
Spam Fried Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice day-old for best texture
- 6 ounces Spam diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) thawed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce optional, but adds depth
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil finishing touch
- 2 green onions thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or canola)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Warm a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat—this step ensures nothing sticks and gives you a chance to test your heat.
- Toss in diced Spam and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until edges turn golden. Crunchy bits add texture, so let them brown without burning.
- Push Spam to one side, add garlic to the empty area, and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook 2 minutes until heated through.
- Push everything aside, pour beaten eggs into the center, and gently scramble until set. This makes fluffy ribbons that coat each grain.
- Add rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Toss with a spatula, breaking up clumps and mixing evenly. You’ll see steam rise—that’s flavor happening.
- Sprinkle black pepper, drizzle sesame oil, and toss one last time. Taste and adjust soy or pepper as needed.
- Transfer to plates, sprinkle with green onions, and dig in. You can top with a drizzle of sriracha or a side of kimchi for extra zing.
