Pin it
French Onion Butter Rice is the sort of cozy side dish that manages to be both luxurious and incredibly simple. You get all the rich flavor of French onion soup tucked into every grain of buttery rice. My family loves this one on chilly evenings when only something warm and comforting will do.
Ingredients
- Long grain rice: you want grains that stay fluffy and distinct longer cooking but never mushy
- Beef broth: essential for that deep savory base look for one with low sodium for more control
- French onion soup: this is the signature flavor canned is handy but try to select one packed with real onions
- Butter: gives the rice richness use good quality for best flavor cold butter helps distribute evenly while baking
- Fresh parsley: brightens everything up and adds a pop of color always choose vibrant green leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare your pan:
- Lightly butter an 8X8 inch baking dish to keep the rice from sticking
- Layer the rice:
- Spread the uncooked long grain rice in an even layer at the bottom of the dish so everything cooks uniformly
- Add liquids:
- Pour the beef broth over the rice letting it seep through the grains then follow with french onion soup distributing it evenly
- Dot with butter:
- Cut your butter into thin slices and lay them all over the mixture this melts into every corner and helps give a golden top
- Bake covered:
- Seal the dish tightly with foil to hold moisture bake at 425 degrees F for 25 minutes for the first softening stage
- Finish uncovered:
- Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven another 25 minutes to evaporate extra liquid and achieve a golden top
- Garnish and serve:
- Scatter fresh chopped parsley over the rice for color and a lift of flavor serve hot scooping right from the pan
Pin it
You Must Know
- This rice is great as a do-ahead dish warm leftovers are extra flavorful
- Swapping broths will change the base flavor try chicken for a lighter twist
- The butter keeps the grains tender but you can use half the amount and still get good results
Butter is my favorite ingredient in this recipe because it makes every bite so rich and luscious My little one learned how to sprinkle parsley on top and now insists on being the official garnisher for this dish It has become a sweet little kitchen tradition for us
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they keep well for up to four days Reheat in the microwave or gently in the oven with a splash of broth to loosen it up The flavor gets even better overnight so this is perfect for meal prep
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of beef broth you can swap vegetable broth just know you will lose some of that deep base A vegan butter works well if you want a dairy free side and a gluten free onion soup will make this suitable for gluten intolerant eaters
Serving Suggestions
This rice pairs beautifully with roast chicken grilled steak pan seared salmon or even as a base for a veggie bowl I sometimes tuck in leftover rotisserie chicken for an effortless one dish meal
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of rice works best?
Long grain rice is preferred for its fluffy texture, which allows it to absorb all the savory flavors without becoming mushy.
- → Can I substitute the beef broth?
Yes, chicken or vegetable broth can be used, though beef broth delivers the deepest flavor profile for this dish.
- → How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Ensure the pan is evenly covered with liquid before baking and stir gently if needed before serving.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
The dish reheats well, making it suitable for preparing in advance and warming before serving.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness, but finely sliced chives or a sprinkle of cheese can also elevate the flavor.