Transform ordinary rice into a luxurious side dish with this French onion butter rice recipe. Inspired by the rich, caramelized flavors of classic French onion soup, this quick-fix rice elevates any weeknight dinner into something special.
Using pantry staples and a few key ingredients, you’ll create a buttery, savory rice dish that tastes like it came from a bistro kitchen. The secret lies in the combination of rich butter and French onion soup mix, which infuses every grain with incredible flavor.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 10 minutes using leftover or freshly cooked rice
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you probably already have
- Perfect balance of butter and savory onion flavors
- Versatile enough to pair with any protein
- Transforms basic rice into a memorable side dish
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice – Jasmine or basmati works best for a fluffy texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and keeps the rice from drying out.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup – Brings deep onion flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef consommé – Enhances the richness and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Optional, but adds another layer of seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Balances the buttery richness.
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat
- Add cooked rice to the melted butter
- Sprinkle French onion soup mix over the rice
- Stir well to combine and heat through for 3-4 minutes
- Add black pepper and fresh parsley
- Top with crispy fried onions before serving
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old rice for best texture and to prevent sticking
- Substitute brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an extra savory touch
- Make it cheesy by stirring in 1/2 cup of grated gruyere
- For a lighter version, reduce butter to 2 tablespoons
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich and flavorful rice alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pan-seared fish. It’s particularly delicious with dishes that have a simple preparation, as the rice provides plenty of flavor complexity.
For a complete meal, pair with steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance the buttery richness.
Notes
- Stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture
- Rice should be hot and slightly glistening with butter when done
FAQs
- Can I use instant rice? Yes, just prepare according to package directions before adding other ingredients.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly? While it can be frozen, the texture is best when fresh or refrigerated.
- Can I make this ahead? Yes, prepare up to 2 days ahead but add crispy onions just before serving.
- What if I don’t have French onion soup mix? Substitute with 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon beef bouillon.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice – Jasmine or basmati works best for a fluffy texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and keeps the rice from drying out.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup – Brings deep onion flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef consommé – Enhances the richness and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Optional, but adds another layer of seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Balances the buttery richness.
Steps
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat
- Add cooked rice to the melted butter
- Sprinkle French onion soup mix over the rice
- Stir well to combine and heat through for 3-4 minutes
- Add black pepper and fresh parsley
- Top with crispy fried onions before serving
Notes
- Stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture
- Rice should be hot and slightly glistening with butter when done
