Description
A cozy and savory side dish that combines buttery rice with deep onion flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati, rinsed and drained (Do not use instant or parboiled rice.)
- 1 cup condensed French onion soup (Provides deep onion flavor.)
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth (Adds body and balances sweetness.)
- 4-6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes (Adds richness; control the seasoning.)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (Use 1/2 teaspoon dried if fresh is unavailable.)
- 1 bay leaf bay leaf (Add for additional flavor.)
- to taste Salt and pepper (Add to taste before serving.)
- optional Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce (Add for extra savory note.)
- optional Gruyère or Parmesan cheese (For a cheesy topping.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch baking dish or a small casserole.
- Rinse and drain 1 cup of long-grain or basmati rice.
- In the baking dish, stir together 1 cup of condensed French onion soup and 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth. Add a splash of Worcestershire if desired.
- Stir in the rice, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme), and the bay leaf.
- Dot the top with 4 to 6 tablespoons of butter, cut into small cubes.
- Cover tightly with foil to keep steam in.
Cooking
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest covered for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Taste and season with pepper and a pinch of salt if needed.
- For an optional cheesy finish, sprinkle Gruyère or Parmesan on top and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until melty and golden.
Notes
For added flavor, sauté half an onion until golden before incorporating it into the dish, and consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for deeper savory flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: French