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The Ultimate French Onion Butter Rice: Creamy, Savory & Easy Baked Side Dish

A close-up of creamy french onion butter rice served in a white bowl, topped with melted, browned cheese and crispy onions.

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Make a rich, savory side dish that captures the flavor of French onion soup using caramelized onions, butter, and beef broth. This easy baked rice casserole is perfect for weeknights or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
  • 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 25 to 35 minutes until they are deeply golden brown and caramelized. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  3. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the butter until melted into the onions. Set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Mix well.
  5. Fold the caramelized onion mixture into the rice mixture until evenly distributed.
  6. Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dot the top evenly with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, cut into small pieces.
  7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil. If using cheese, sprinkle the Gruyère evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the top is lightly golden brown.
  9. Let the rice rest, covered loosely with foil, for 5 minutes before serving. Fluff gently with a fork.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth or mushroom stock.
  • This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled steak.
  • You can prepare the onion caramelizing step a day ahead to save time on cooking day.
  • If you prefer a stovetop method, cook the rice according to package directions using the broth and onion mixture, reducing the liquid slightly.

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