If you’re looking for a simple, comforting, and flavor-packed side dish, this French Onion Rice is a must-try!
Inspired by the deep, rich flavors of classic French onion soup, this baked rice dish is buttery, savory, and absolutely irresistible.
It’s a perfect dish to serve alongside a hearty meal, or even enjoy as a stand-alone comfort food.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious, no-fuss dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious French Onion Rice:
- 1 ¼ cups long-grain rice, uncooked
- 1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
- 1 stick (½ cup) butter, cold and sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Additions:
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Stir in ½ cup shredded Gruyère or Parmesan before serving for an extra creamy texture.
- Mushroom Variation: Add sliced mushrooms when layering the broth for a deeper umami flavor.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crispy fried onions or toasted breadcrumbs before serving for extra texture.
- Herbal Infusion: A touch of thyme or rosemary can enhance the aroma and taste.
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
First, set your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it gets hot while you prepare everything.
Next, take an 8×8-inch baking dish (or something similar) and lightly grease it. You can use a little butter or cooking spray to keep the rice from sticking.
Now, pour your uncooked rice into the dish, spreading it out evenly so it forms a nice, flat layer.
2. Add the Broth and Soup
Take your beef broth and pour it over the rice, making sure it covers everything evenly.
Next, open the French onion soup can and pour it on top of the rice and broth. Try not to stir it—keeping the layers separate helps with texture and makes the rice more flavorful.
3. Add the Butter
Take your stick of butter and cut it into small pieces (slices or chunks). This helps it melt evenly.
Now, place these pieces all over the top of the rice mixture. The butter will slowly melt in the oven, making everything rich, flavorful, and slightly crispy on top.
4. Cover and Bake
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps trap the steam inside, so the rice cooks properly and doesn’t dry out.
Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. During this time, the rice will start absorbing all the liquid and softening up.
5. Uncover and Continue Baking
After 25 minutes, carefully take the dish out of the oven and remove the foil (watch out for the hot steam!).
Put the dish back into the oven uncovered and bake for another 25 minutes. This allows the rice to finish cooking while also giving the top a slightly golden, crispy texture.
6. Let It Rest and Serve
Once the rice is done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes the rice even tastier.
For a final touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor!
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, buttery, French Onion Rice!
Rice Plating Ideas: Serve Your Rice in Style
Elevate your presentation with these simple yet elegant plating ideas:
- Classic Bowl Presentation: Serve the rice in a deep bowl, garnished with extra caramelized onions and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
- Molded Rice Towers: Use a small bowl or a ring mold to shape the rice into a neat cylinder before serving.
- Rustic Cast Iron Skillet: Present the rice in a warm cast iron skillet for a cozy, homestyle feel.
Credits: @theendlessmeal - Fine Dining Touch: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or top with microgreens for an elegant finish.
Tips for the Best French Onion Rice
- Use Long-Grain Rice: Long-grain varieties like jasmine or basmati maintain the perfect texture and don’t get mushy.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: Butter is essential for adding depth of flavor and keeping the rice moist.
- Allow Resting Time: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after baking helps distribute the flavors evenly.
- For Extra Crispiness: If you like a crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Add Protein: To turn this into a full meal, stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground beef before serving.
Serving Suggestions
French Onion Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ways to serve it:
- With Grilled or Roasted Meats: Complements dishes like roasted chicken, steak, or pork chops.
- As a Vegetarian Side: Pair it with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sautéed mushrooms.
- With a Holiday Spread: A fantastic addition to a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad and vinaigrette to balance the richness.
FAQs
Can I Use Chicken Broth Instead of Beef Broth?
Yes! While beef broth provides a richer, more robust flavor, chicken broth works as a lighter alternative and still delivers a delicious result.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake as directed, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I Freeze French Onion Rice?
Yes! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave with a bit of broth.
Can I Make This in a One-Pan Method?
Yes! If you have an oven-safe skillet, you can prepare everything in the same pan, making cleanup even easier. Simply layer the ingredients in the skillet and bake as directed.
How Can I Make It Extra Creamy?
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Plate This Dish?
- Family-Style: Serve in the baking dish with a large spoon for easy serving.
- Individually Plated: Use a round mold to shape the rice into a neat mound on the plate.
- Elegant Touch: Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and crispy onions before serving.
Final Thoughts
French Onion Rice is a dish that combines the best elements of comfort food—rich, buttery, and deeply flavorful.
Whether you’re serving it as a simple weeknight side or a standout holiday dish, it’s sure to impress.
The minimal prep and hands-off baking make it perfect for busy cooks who still want bold flavors in their meals.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!
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