French Onion Soup Rice – A Savory, Flavor-Packed Side Dish

If you love the rich, deep flavors of French onion soup, then this French Onion Soup Rice is going to be your new favorite side dish! Additionally, this recipe transforms simple white rice into a savory, buttery, and aromatic dish using French onion soup, beef broth, and butter for an irresistible depth of flavor.

Whether you’re serving it with chicken, steak, or pork, this easy one-pan rice dish is a fantastic way to elevate your meal without extra effort. Moreover, with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying side dish ready in no time!

Key Takeaways

Learn how to make French Onion Soup Rice with minimal ingredients.
Discover the best type of rice to use for fluffy, flavorful results.
Get expert tips to prevent mushy rice and enhance the oniony, beefy flavor.
Find out how to store and reheat leftovers while maintaining texture.
Explore delicious main dishes to pair with this flavorful rice.

Introduction to French Onion Soup Rice

This French Onion Soup Rice is a buttery, flavorful dish made by cooking rice in French onion soup, beef broth, and butter instead of plain water. Moreover, the result is a rich, umami-packed side dish that pairs well with just about any main course.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring only a few pantry staples and a single baking dish or pot. Furthermore, it’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it side that can be baked or cooked on the stovetop, depending on your preference.

Essential Ingredients for the Best French Onion Soup Rice

This dish comes together with just a few simple ingredients:

For the Rice:

1 cup long-grain white rice – Absorbs the flavors without getting mushy.
1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup – The key ingredient that provides deep onion flavor.
1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth – Adds richness and depth to the rice.
½ cup butter (1 stick, sliced into pats) – Enhances the richness and keeps the rice from drying out.

Optional Additions:

½ tsp garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlicky note.
¼ tsp black pepper – Enhances the savory flavor.
½ cup sliced mushrooms – A great addition for an extra umami boost.
½ cup shredded cheese (Swiss, Gruyère, or Parmesan) – For a cheesy, melty finish.
¼ cup crispy fried onions – For extra crunch on top.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Baking Dish (8×8 or 9×9 inches) – For an oven-baked version.
Medium Saucepan – If making on the stovetop.
Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accuracy.
Foil – Helps seal in moisture during baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Oven-Baked Method

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2️⃣ Prepare the Rice Mixture

In a greased baking dish, add rice, French onion soup, and beef broth.
Then, stir to combine.

3️⃣ Add Butter

Slice butter into small pats and place evenly over the rice mixture.
Sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper (if using).

4️⃣ Bake Until Tender

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil, stir, and bake for 10-15 more minutes until the rice is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.

5️⃣ Final Touches & Serve

If adding cheese, sprinkle it on top and bake for 5 more minutes until melted.
Garnish with crispy fried onions or fresh parsley before serving.

Stovetop Method

1️⃣ Sauté Butter & Rice

Then, in a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add rice and stir for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted.

2️⃣ Add Liquid & Simmer

Pour in French onion soup and beef broth, stirring to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

3️⃣ Fluff & Serve

Then, once all liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff with a fork and garnish with cheese or crispy onions, if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfect French Onion Soup Rice

Use Long-Grain Rice – This ensures the rice stays fluffy and doesn’t clump together.
Don’t Skip the Butter – It helps create a rich, creamy texture.
Cover While Baking – This traps steam, ensuring even cooking.
Let the Rice Rest – Allowing the rice to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances the texture.
Toast the Rice for Extra Flavor – Lightly sautéing the rice before adding liquid boosts the depth of flavor.

Furthermore, indulge in the savory goodness of French Onion Rice, a delicious and comforting dish that perfectly blends the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender rice, making it an ideal side for any meal.

What to Serve with French Onion Soup Rice

🍗 Grilled Chicken – A simple protein that pairs beautifully.
🥩 Steak or Roast Beef – Complements the deep, savory flavors of the rice.
🐟 Baked Salmon – A lighter option that works well.
🍄 Stuffed Mushrooms or Sautéed Veggies – For a vegetarian-friendly pairing.
🥗 Crisp Green Salad – A refreshing contrast to the richness of the rice.

Storage & Reheating Tips

🧊 Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
❄️ Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or water.
🔥 Reheating:

Microwave: Add a little broth and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes.
Stovetop: Additionally, warm over low heat, adding a bit of broth to rehydrate.

FAQs

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

Yes, but increase the cooking time to about 1 hour and add an extra ½ cup of broth.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

3. How do I prevent mushy rice?

Make sure to use long-grain rice and avoid over-stirring while cooking.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and use a plant-based butter alternative.

5. What’s the best cheese for topping?

Swiss, Gruyère, Parmesan, or mozzarella all work wonderfully!

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Soup Rice is a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Besides that, with its rich onion flavor, buttery texture, and versatility, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!

Also, warm up with a bowl of Turkey Rice Soup, a hearty and comforting meal that combines tender turkey with flavorful rice and vegetables for a satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly days.

Make it once, and you’ll keep coming back to this easy, set-it-and-forget-it dish!