If you are ready to indulge in a comforting, rich, and utterly flavorful dish, the Stick of Butter Rice Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful baked rice combines the savory depth of French onion soup and beef broth soup, all brought together with a whole stick of butter melting into every tender grain. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again for those cozy family dinners or whenever you crave something warm, buttery, and satisfying. Let me take you through this simple yet luxurious dish that turns plain rice into a masterpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create an unforgettable meal. Each element is essential, either for flavor, texture, or that gorgeous golden finish.
- 1 stick butter (½ cup): Adds richness and creaminess, perfectly coating the rice as it melts during baking.
- 1 can condensed French onion soup (10.5 oz): Brings a deep, caramelized onion flavor that infuses the rice with savory notes.
- 1 can condensed beef broth soup (10.5 oz): Provides a hearty, meaty base that complements the French onion soup beautifully.
- 1 cup white rice (rinsed, not instant): The star ingredient, rinsed to ensure fluffiness and prevent stickiness.
How to Make Stick of Butter Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s perfectly hot when your dish is ready to bake. While the oven warms up, lightly spray a baking dish with non-stick spray. This step ensures that the rice won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze after you finish enjoying the meal.
Step 2: Rinse the Rice
Rinsing white rice might feel like a small step, but it’s crucial for achieving that fluffy, separated texture we all love. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, washing away excess starch that would otherwise make the rice gummy once baked.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Spread the rinsed rice evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then, pour the condensed French onion soup and the condensed beef broth soup evenly over the rice. This ensures every grain soaks up all the wonderful flavors. Gently stir the mixture to combine but be careful not to break the rice grains.
Step 4: Add the Star Ingredient
Now, place the stick of butter right on top of the rice mixture. The butter will slowly melt during baking, lending an indulgent richness and buttery aroma that elevates the dish to something truly special.
Step 5: Bake Covered and Then Uncovered
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and pop it into the oven for 30 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the savory flavors and start cooking through. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil, gently stir the rice to redistribute moisture, and return it to the oven uncovered. Bake for another 30 minutes until the rice is tender and you notice a slight caramelization on top—utterly irresistible.
Step 6: Final Stir and Serve
Once baked, give the rice one last gentle stir to blend all the flavors and textures perfectly. Serve this warm, buttery, rich rice dish immediately—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients transform into a satisfying, comforting dish.
How to Serve Stick of Butter Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Stick of Butter Rice Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. These bright green herbs add a fresh pop of color and a delicate contrast to the rich flavors, making every bite visually and tastefully fantastic.
Side Dishes
This butter rice pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed green beans or roasted vegetables for balance. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or even a juicy pork chop—the rice’s richness easily complements robust protein dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Try serving the Stick of Butter Rice Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming presentation. You can also shape it into small mounds or use it as a base layer topped with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to add a gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Stick of Butter Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because of the butter and soups’ rich flavors, reheated rice tastes just as good, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
Freezing this rice is simple and convenient. Place cooled leftover rice in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
For reheating, sprinkle a little water over the rice and cover it to retain moisture. Warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This will help maintain the fluffy texture and buttery richness you love.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice has a different cooking time and absorbs liquid differently, so it’s not recommended for this recipe. Using white rice ensures the texture and flavor come out just right in the baked dish.
What if I don’t have condensed French onion soup?
You can substitute with a similar condensed soup or make a quick homemade French onion soup base. However, using the condensed soup provides the signature depth of flavor that makes this recipe unique.
Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop?
This recipe relies on the slow baking process that allows flavors to meld and rice to cook evenly. Stovetop versions won’t quite capture the same texture or flavor but can work in a pinch with careful monitoring.
Can I add vegetables or protein to the dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in sautéed mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or cooked chicken pieces before baking to add more substance and variety to the dish.
How do I know when the rice is done baking?
The rice should be tender and have absorbed all the liquid after baking. You’ll also notice a slightly caramelized, golden top after the uncovered baking phase—this is a great indicator the dish is ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Stick of Butter Rice Recipe. It’s an easy yet luxurious dish that turns simple pantry staples into a melody of rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy rice.
Print
Stick of Butter Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Stick of Butter Rice Recipe is a simple, comforting baked rice dish that combines the rich flavors of condensed French onion soup, beef broth, and a whole stick of butter. The rice is baked in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized on top, resulting in a flavorful, buttery side dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter (½ cup)
- 1 can condensed French onion soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can condensed beef broth soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup white rice (rinsed, not instant)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the rice evenly.
- Prepare baking dish: Lightly spray a baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent the rice from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Rinse rice: Thoroughly rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which ensures fluffier cooked rice.
- Place rice in dish: Spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even cooking surface.
- Add soups: Pour the condensed French onion soup and condensed beef broth soup evenly over the rice, distributing the flavors thoroughly.
- Stir: Gently stir the rice and soup mixture with a spoon to combine the ingredients without breaking the rice grains.
- Add butter: Place the stick of butter on top of the rice and soup mixture, allowing it to melt during baking to add richness and moisture.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors and cook through.
- Remove foil and stir: Carefully remove the foil, then gently stir the rice to redistribute moisture and flavors evenly. Return the dish to the oven uncovered.
- Continue baking uncovered: Bake the rice for an additional 30 minutes uncovered, until it is tender and the top is slightly caramelized, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Final stir and serve: Stir the baked rice one last time to mix the caramelized top before serving hot, enjoying its savory and buttery taste.
Notes
- Make sure to rinse the rice well to get rid of excess starch for better texture.
- Using condensed soups adds rich flavor; avoid diluting with water or milk.
- Covering with foil initially helps steam the rice for tenderness.
- Leaving the dish uncovered in the last stage allows the top to brown and caramelize.
- Use a sturdy baking dish that can hold moisture well.
- For a richer taste, use unsalted butter to control salt levels.
