French Onion Butter Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the rich, savory taste of French onion soup with the softness of buttery rice. With its aromatic blend of caramelized onions, garlic, and a hint of thyme, this rice is the perfect side dish to complement any meal. The addition of butter and a touch of Parmesan adds richness and depth, making this dish an absolute crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to prepare, yet packed with flavor that will elevate any dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Butter Rice is the perfect blend of indulgent French onion soup flavors and the creamy, comforting texture of rice. The caramelized onions give the rice a deep, sweet-savory flavor that’s complemented by the richness of butter and Parmesan cheese. This dish is versatile enough to serve with everything from roasted meats to grilled vegetables or even as a standalone meal. The caramelized onions and subtle herbs will fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma, making it hard to wait for dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)

• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Caramelize the Onions:

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. If the onions begin to stick to the pan, add a splash of water to help loosen them.

• Once caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Cook the Rice:

• Add the rice to the pan with the caramelized onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the rice in the oil and onions, allowing it to toast lightly for about 2 minutes.

• Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.

3. Add Butter and Cheese:

• Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

4. Serve:

• Fluff the rice with a fork, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve the French Onion Butter Rice hot as a side dish with your favorite main course, or enjoy it on its own for a comforting meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Add cooked chicken, or sausage to the rice for a heartier, one-pot meal.

• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit any meat-based additions.

• Cheesy Rice: For extra cheesiness, stir in more cheese, such as mozzarella or Gruyère, for a melty, gooey texture.

• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to complement the onion flavor and add a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the rice on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require more cooking time (about 40-45 minutes) and more liquid (about 4 cups of broth). Be sure to check the rice for doneness and adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave with a little extra broth to restore its moisture.

3. Can I make this recipe in a rice cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a rice cooker! Follow the same steps to caramelize the onions and garlic, then transfer everything into the rice cooker and cook according to your rice cooker’s instructions. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly.

4. Can I use frozen onions?

You can use frozen onions if you don’t have fresh ones, though fresh onions tend to caramelize better and provide more flavor. If using frozen onions, sauté them directly without thawing and cook until softened and browned.

5. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. You can also use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different texture and flavor.

6. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and onions while cooking to give the dish a spicy kick. You can also use spicy broth or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

7. How do I know when the rice is done?

The rice is done when it has absorbed all the liquid and is tender to the bite. You can check by tasting a grain of rice. If it’s still firm, let it cook a little longer, adding a bit more liquid if necessary.

8. Can I make this dish with a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice like jasmine or basmati for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the liquid amount and cooking time according to the type of rice you use.

9. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the rice for added flavor and nutrients. Just sauté them with the onions or stir them in with the rice while it simmers.

10. Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes, you can make this a main dish by adding a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. The rice is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own as well.

Conclusion

French Onion Butter Rice is a savory, rich, and comforting dish that combines the best flavors of French onion soup with the softness of buttery rice. This dish is perfect for any meal and will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you serve it alongside your favorite main course or enjoy it as a satisfying standalone dish, the combination of caramelized onions, garlic, cheese, and herbs will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Try this recipe for a comforting, flavorful side that’s sure to impress!