French Onion Rice is a rich, flavorful side dish that takes inspiration from the comforting taste of French onion soup. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s an easy oven-baked recipe that brings warm, savory flavors to your dinner table. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, this rice dish is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
-
One-dish oven bake for easy cleanup
-
Comforting and rich in flavor
-
Versatile enough to pair with many main dishes
-
Easily adaptable with added proteins or vegetables
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Long grain white rice
-
Condensed French onion soup
-
Beef broth
-
Salted butter
-
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
-
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
-
In an 8x8-inch baking dish, mix the rinsed rice, condensed French onion soup, and beef broth until combined.
-
Slice the butter and place evenly on top of the mixture.
-
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
-
Bake for 30 minutes.
-
Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
-
Fluff with a fork, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: Approximately 6
-
Prep Time: 5 minutes
-
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
-
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Variations
-
Add shredded cheese on top for a cheesy version
-
Mix in sautéed mushrooms for added umami
-
Stir in cooked chicken or beef for a one-pan meal
-
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
-
Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a deeper flavor
Storage/Reheating
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
-
Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth to restore moisture
-
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change
FAQs
How can I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Use long grain white rice and avoid overbaking. Make sure to rinse the rice before baking.
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time.
Is rinsing the rice necessary?
Yes, rinsing removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from getting too sticky.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well. Just add a splash of broth before reheating to keep it moist.
What goes well with French Onion Rice?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables.
Can I freeze this rice dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the rice texture may become unpleasant once thawed.
How do I add a crunchy topping?
Try sprinkling buttered breadcrumbs or fried onions over the top before the final bake.
Can I use homemade French onion soup?
Yes, just substitute it in equal parts for the canned version.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Use dairy-free butter or margarine to make this recipe dairy-free.
How can I reduce the saltiness?
Choose low-sodium broth and soup, and use unsalted butter if available.
Conclusion
French Onion Rice is a cozy, satisfying side that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're serving it with your favorite meat dish or enjoying it as a comforting standalone meal, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Customize it to fit your tastes and enjoy the rich, hearty goodness in every bite.
