French Onion Butter Rice is a savory, aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, butter, and herbs. It’s an easy side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains, from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s packed with deep, caramelized onion flavor for a comforting, homestyle taste.
It uses simple pantry staples, making it accessible and budget-friendly.
The recipe is versatile and works with beef or vegetable broth to suit your dietary preferences.
It’s a one-pan dish, which makes cleanup quick and easy.
The buttery richness and hint of soy sauce elevate this rice to a restaurant-quality side.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting it lightly toast with the onions and butter.
Add the broth, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
Cheesy Twist: Stir in grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese after cooking for an extra layer of richness.
Herbal Upgrade: Add fresh thyme or rosemary in place of dried thyme for a more pronounced herb flavor.
Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions for a heartier version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Vegan Version: Use vegetable broth and substitute plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
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FAQs
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan?
Make sure to use a pan with a tight-fitting lid and keep the heat low while simmering. Stirring lightly before covering can also help distribute ingredients evenly.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Adjust the cooking time to 35-40 minutes and check periodically.
What’s the best type of onion to use?
Yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness, but white or red onions can also work for a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice up to a day in advance and reheat it before serving. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat with a bit of broth or water.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
If you’re avoiding soy sauce, use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor.
Conclusion
French Onion Butter Rice is a comforting and flavorful side dish that elevates any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, its rich caramelized onion flavor and buttery texture are sure to impress. With its easy-to-follow directions and customizable variations, this dish is a must-try for rice lovers.
📖 Recipe:
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French Onion Butter Rice
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
French Onion Butter Rice is a savory, aromatic side dish packed with the deep flavors of caramelized onions, butter, and herbs. This easy one-pan recipe pairs perfectly with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or hearty stews, making it a versatile and comforting addition to your meal.
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (15-20 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting it lightly toast with the onions and butter.
- Pour in broth, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
For added richness, stir in Parmesan or Gruyère cheese before serving.
Substitute plant-based butter and vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
