Kielbasa Fried Rice

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time
10 min	15 min	25 min

Introduction

This kielbasa fried rice is a fun twist on classic takeout, with smoky sausage tucked into every bite of fluffy rice.

It comes together quickly in one pan, so it is perfect for busy weeknights or a low-fuss weekend dinner.

Colorful peas, carrots, and green onions add freshness and crunch, while sesame oil and soy sauce bring cozy, savory flavor.

How to Make Kielbasa Fried Rice

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Prep the rice

If your rice is warm, spread it on a plate and chill it while you prep the rest.
Cold, slightly dried rice fries better and stays fluffy instead of turning gummy.
Beat the eggs

Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them until the whites and yolks look completely blended.

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Scramble the eggs

Heat a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium heat and add half the sesame oil and half the butter.
Pour in the beaten eggs and gently scramble just until set, then slide them onto a plate.
Brown the kielbasa

Add the sliced kielbasa to the same skillet and cook over medium-high heat until browned on both sides.
Transfer the browned sausage to the plate with the eggs, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Cook the vegetables

Add the remaining sesame oil and butter to the skillet, then stir in the carrots and peas.
Cook, stirring often, until the carrots are crisp-tender and the peas are hot.

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Fry and season the rice

Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
Sprinkle in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then stir to coat the grains.
Spread the rice into an even layer and let it cook undisturbed for a minute to develop light toasty spots.
Finish and serve

Return the scrambled eggs and kielbasa to the skillet and toss to combine with the seasoned rice.
Stir in the sliced green onions, taste, and adjust the seasoning with a little more soy sauce if needed.
Serve the fried rice hot straight from the pan, with extra green onions on top if you like.

Substitutions

Replace kielbasa with smoked turkey sausage: Smoked turkey sausage keeps the same smoky vibe but lightens the dish a bit. Slice it just like kielbasa so it browns nicely and adds meaty bites in every forkful.
Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce: Tamari will give you the same deep savory flavor but keeps the fried rice safely gluten-free. Start with the same amount, then add a splash more if you like a bolder taste.
Swap peas for shelled edamame: Edamame adds bigger pops of green, extra protein, and a slightly nutty flavor that loves smoky sausage. Toss it in frozen, just like peas, and cook until heated through.

Tips

Use day-old rice for the best texture: Rice that has been chilled overnight dries out slightly and fries into fluffy, separated grains. If using fresh rice, spread it on a tray and chill it uncovered for at least 30 minutes.
Slice the kielbasa evenly: Aim for 1/4-inch slices so the sausage browns quickly without drying out. Even pieces also make every bite feel balanced with rice and veggies.
Let the rice sit before stirring: Those short pauses help the rice develop light crusty spots, which add texture and a hint of smokiness.
Adjust the pan heat as you cook: If the pan looks dry or the rice starts sticking, lower the heat and add a small knob of butter. For more browning, nudge the heat up but keep everything moving.
Finish with fresh green onions: Stirring in the green onions at the end keeps their flavor bright and slightly sharp. Save a few slices for sprinkling on top for color and crunch.

Energy	537	kcal
Protein	21	g
Total Fat	27	g
Carbohydrates	48	g
Dietary Fiber	2	g

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?: Yes, brown rice works well, but make sure it is fully cooked and chilled before stir-frying. The texture will be a little chewier and nuttier, which tastes great with smoky sausage.
My fried rice turned mushy; what went wrong?: Mushy rice usually means the rice was too hot, too fresh, or had too much moisture left. Next time, use day-old rice, break up clumps well, and avoid crowding a very small pan.
Can I add more vegetables to this fried rice?: Definitely, just keep the total vegetable amount reasonable so the dish still feels like fried rice, not a stir-fry. Bell peppers, corn, cabbage, or broccoli florets all cook nicely if you dice them small.
How can I make this spicier?: Stir a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha into the soy sauce mixture before adding it to the rice. You can also cook a pinch of red pepper flakes with the sausage for heat in every bite.