When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy dish that brings the family together. Enter French Onion Butter Rice—a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s bound to become a staple on your dinner table.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to elevate your meal without too much fuss.
The magic of this dish lies in its rich, savory flavors. The combination of beef broth and French onion soup infuses the rice with a deep, comforting taste, while the butter adds a creamy, luxurious texture. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this family favorite in under an hour!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just 5 minutes of prep time, this dish practically cooks itself.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need 5 simple ingredients to create a flavorful masterpiece.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetable medley.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, buttery, and full of rich flavors—what’s not to love?
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this irresistible French Onion Butter Rice:
- 1 1/4 cups Long Grain Rice (uncooked): The perfect base for absorbing all the delicious flavors.
- 14.5 oz can of Beef Broth: Adds depth and richness to the dish.
- 10.5 oz can of French Onion Soup: The star ingredient that brings bold, savory flavor.
- 1 stick of Butter (cold): Sliced into pats for even distribution and creamy texture.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 Glass Baking Dish (with lid): Ideal for even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure perfect proportions.
- Herb Scissors or Chopper: For finely chopping fresh parsley.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures even cooking and helps the rice absorb all the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Base
In an 8×8-inch glass baking dish, spread the uncooked long-grain rice evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Pour the beef broth over the rice, followed by the French onion soup. The combination of these two liquids will create a rich, flavorful base for the rice to cook in.
Step 4: Add Butter
Slice the cold butter into small pats and place them evenly over the rice mixture. The butter will melt as the dish bakes, creating a creamy, indulgent texture.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with tin foil to trap in moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Step 6: Bake Uncovered
After 25 minutes, remove the tin foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 25 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly and develop a bit of texture.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain rice works best for this recipe as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully without becoming too sticky.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: The butter is essential for creating that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Use real butter for the best results!
- Customize Your Garnish: While parsley is a classic garnish, you can also try chives or thyme for a different flavor profile.
What to Serve with French Onion Butter Rice
This versatile side dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Roasted Chicken: The buttery rice complements juicy, herb-roasted chicken perfectly.
- Grilled Steak: Add a touch of elegance by serving this rice alongside a tender steak.
- Vegetarian Option: Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of French Onion Butter Rice lies in its simplicity. By combining just a few pantry staples—rice, broth, soup, and butter—you create a dish that feels indulgent and special without requiring hours in the kitchen. The slow baking process allows the rice to fully absorb the rich flavors of the broth and soup while the butter melts into every grain, creating an irresistibly creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time and may require additional liquid. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up until the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply follow the instructions as written—just add a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
French Onion Butter Rice is more than just a side dish—it’s a comforting culinary experience that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats or enjoying it as part of a vegetarian spread, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and incredible taste, it’s no wonder this dish is on repeat in so many kitchens!
So go ahead—grab your baking dish, gather your ingredients, and treat your family to this creamy, buttery delight tonight. Don’t forget to sprinkle on some fresh parsley for that finishing touch! Bon appétit!
Print
French Onion Butter Rice
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Dinner tonight is this easy, creamy French Onion Butter Rice. It’s the comforting side dish your family will ask for again and again!
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
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
In an 8X8 inch pan, spread the uncooked rice evenly.
Pour Beef Broth over the rice.
Next, pour in the French Onion Soup.
Slice the butter into pats and layer it evenly over the rice and soup mixture.
Cover the dish with tin foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, uncover, return to the oven, and bake for an additional 25 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Equipment: Baking Dish 8 x 8 Glass (w/lid), Measuring cups and spoons, Herb Scissors/Chopper
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg