Stick of Butter Baked Rice

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If you asked me what comfort smells like, I’d say it’s this Stick of Butter Baked Rice baking in the oven. There’s just something heartwarming about the nutty aroma of browned butter and the toasty scent of rice that fills my kitchen. It brings me back to family dinners, simple meals, and those moments when you just need something that tastes like a hug.

The first time I made this dish, I was skeptical. Could such simple ingredients really transform into something memorable? Spoiler alert: they absolutely do. With minimal effort and just a handful of pantry staples, you get golden, tender rice that’s infused with savory butter and onion flavors in every bite. It’s the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight.

I make this often when we have guests or even just a busy weeknight. It’s foolproof, rich, and somehow tastes like you spent hours on it. This recipe sits beautifully next to dishes like Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta or even a hearty Boilermaker Tailgate Chili. It’s my go-to when I want to impress without stress.

Why You’ll Love This Stick of Butter Baked Rice

This baked rice dish hits every note you want in comfort food: it’s buttery, it’s golden, and it’s shockingly easy. Whether you’re serving this with a creamy casserole or grilled meats, it brings depth and coziness to your plate. Plus, the oven does most of the work while you get everything else ready. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a rainy Tuesday night when you want something reliable and delicious.

Ingredients

White rice: This is the heart of the recipe. Long grain white rice bakes beautifully and absorbs the buttery broth, turning soft and tender with a hint of a nutty edge.

Butter: A whole stick of it melts into the rice, giving this dish its name and its luxurious flavor. The butter ensures every grain of rice is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying.

French onion soup: This secret weapon brings in a rich, slow-cooked onion flavor without needing to caramelize onions yourself. It adds depth and umami to the base.

Beef broth: This provides moisture for the rice to cook and enhances the savory flavor profile. It balances the sweetness of the onion soup with its meaty notes.

How to Make Stick of Butter Baked Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps get a golden top and perfectly cooked rice.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a 9×9-inch baking dish, pour in 1 cup of long grain white rice, 1 can of French onion soup, and 1 can of beef broth. Stir to combine them evenly.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Slice a full stick of butter into thin pats and layer them evenly over the top of the rice mixture. Don’t stir—let the butter melt slowly as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake it for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 30 minutes. This allows the butter to brown slightly and the top to get a bit crispy.

Step 5: Rest and Fluff

Let the rice sit for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Then fluff it gently with a fork. The result is savory, buttery perfection in every spoonful.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

There are a few easy ways to switch things up with this Stick of Butter Baked Rice. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth works just fine and brings a lighter flavor. Want it vegetarian? Use vegetable broth and swap the French onion soup for a vegetarian version. You can also add mushrooms or caramelized onions to make it heartier, or even stir in some shredded cheddar before the final bake for a cheesy twist.

For a nuttier texture, try using brown rice—just be sure to add more liquid and extend the bake time. Jasmine or basmati rice can be used if you want something more aromatic, though they may yield a slightly different texture.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This rice pairs effortlessly with roasted chicken, pork chops, or a savory meatloaf. It’s also a comforting side to saucy dishes like Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce or Creamy Broccoli Pasta. Add a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a full, balanced meal.

For casual meals, I often serve this with grilled sausages or a quick pan-seared steak. And for potlucks? This dish is always the first to disappear.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Stick of Butter Baked Rice stores beautifully. Once it cools, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, add a splash of broth or water before microwaving or gently warming on the stovetop to keep the rice moist and fluffy.

If you want to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

FAQs

How do I make Stick of Butter Baked Rice if I don’t have French onion soup?

You can substitute with a mix of caramelized onions and a bit of soy sauce or Worcestershire to mimic that deep flavor. Canned mushroom soup is another option.

Can I double the Stick of Butter Baked Rice recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger baking dish (like 9×13) and double all ingredients. Keep the same baking method, but you might need an extra 5 to 10 minutes.

Is Stick of Butter Baked Rice gluten-free?

It can be, but double-check the labels on your broth and French onion soup, as some brands contain gluten.

Can I make Stick of Butter Baked Rice in advance?

Absolutely. You can mix everything in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Let it come to room temperature before putting it in the oven.

What makes Stick of Butter Baked Rice so flavorful?

It’s the combination of buttery richness, umami from the soup, and the depth of the beef broth. Simple ingredients that come together in the best way.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If buttery baked sides are your thing, don’t miss trying the Loaded Scalloped Potatoes or Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake. Both of these recipes are rich, satisfying, and perfect for holiday spreads or cozy weeknights.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Stick of Butter Baked Rice made your dinner easier or tastier, why not save it for later? Pin this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s right there when you need it. Share the link with friends, post it in your favorite cooking group, or print it out for your recipe binder. Comfort food like this deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation!

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