French Onion Soup Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
1 1/4 cup long grain rice, uncooked
14.5 oz can of beef broth
10.5 oz can of French onion soup
1 stick of butter, cold
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the Rice:
In an 8×8 inch baking dish, spread the uncooked rice evenly.
Add Liquids:
Pour the beef broth over the rice.
Next, pour in the French onion soup.
Add Butter:
Slice the cold butter into pats and layer them evenly over the rice and soup mixture.
Bake Covered:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Bake Uncovered:
After 25 minutes, uncover the dish, return it to the oven, and bake for an additional 25 minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes Calories: Approximately 191 kcal per serving Servings: 6
20 Secrets to Achieve the Perfect French Onion Soup Rice
Quality Ingredients:
Use high-quality beef broth and French onion soup for the best flavor.
Uniform Rice Layer:
Ensure the rice is spread evenly in the baking dish for uniform cooking.
Cold Butter:
Use cold butter for even melting and distribution of flavor.
Properly Preheat Oven:
Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure consistent cooking times.
Foil Tightly Sealed:
Seal the foil tightly to trap steam and help cook the rice evenly.
Butter Distribution:
Distribute the butter evenly over the rice to ensure it melts uniformly.
Stir Once:
After uncovering, give the rice a gentle stir to mix in the melted butter before finishing the bake.
Resting Time:
Let the rice sit for a few minutes after baking to absorb any remaining liquid.
Use Fresh Parsley:
Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Check for Doneness:
Ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender before serving. If necessary, bake a little longer uncovered.
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle some grated Gruyere or Swiss cheese on top before the final bake for a cheesy twist.
Flavor Boost:
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the broth for an extra depth of flavor.
Rice Varieties:
Experiment with different types of rice like basmati or jasmine for varying textures and flavors.
Sauteed Onions:
For an extra layer of flavor, add sautéed onions to the rice before baking.
Mushrooms Addition:
Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the dish.
Garlic Flavor:
Add a few minced garlic cloves to the rice for an additional flavor boost.
Salt Balance:
Taste your broth and soup mixture; adjust the salt if needed to avoid overly salty rice.
Slow Cooker Method:
Prepare the dish in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours if you prefer a hands-off approach.
Use a Larger Dish:
If doubling the recipe, use a larger baking dish to ensure even cooking.
Serve with Protein:
Serve alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or grilled steak for a complete meal.
FAQ Related to French Onion Soup Rice
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, but cooking times may vary. Adjust the liquid and check for doneness.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth and a vegetarian French onion soup.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the rice may change.
Can I use instant rice?
It’s best to use long-grain rice as instant rice may become too mushy.
What can I substitute for French onion soup?
You can use a homemade French onion soup or a mix of beef broth with sautéed onions.
Can I use low-sodium broth?
Yes, adjust the seasoning as needed for taste.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, carrots, peas, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I make it less greasy?
Use less butter or substitute half with olive oil.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
What if the rice is still hard after baking?
Add a little more broth, cover, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Can I add protein to the dish?
Yes, cooked chicken, beef, or sausage can be mixed in before baking.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but butter gives a richer flavor.
What can I use instead of parsley?
Fresh thyme or chives can be used as a garnish.
Can I make it spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
How do I make it more flavorful?
Use a high-quality broth and soup, and consider adding herbs or spices.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate before baking. Add extra baking time if starting from cold.
Can I use homemade French onion soup?
Absolutely, homemade soup will enhance the flavor even more.
How do I avoid overcooking the rice?
Follow the timing closely and check for doneness at the end of the covered baking period.
What side dishes go well with this?
Serve with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a protein like chicken or beef.