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The Ultimate Creamy Baked French Onion Butter Rice

Close-up of a square serving of creamy french onion butter rice topped with crispy caramelized onions.

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This rich, savory baked rice dish captures the deep flavor of French onion soup using caramelized onions, butter, and beef broth. It is a simple, comforting side perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed French onion soup, undiluted
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onion and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized and soft.
  3. Stir the garlic powder and thyme into the caramelized onions and cook for one minute more until fragrant.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, French onion soup, beef broth, water, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Stir the onion mixture into the rice mixture until everything is evenly distributed.
  6. Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  8. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the foil during the first 40 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil. If using cheese, sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top.
  10. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  11. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork and serving.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth.
  • This dish works well as a make ahead side dish; cover and refrigerate after baking, then reheat gently.
  • If you prefer a stovetop method, cook covered on low heat for 20 minutes after bringing to a simmer.

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