Name: French Onion Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup long grain white rice; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian); 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed French onion soup; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Hey y’all! If you’re a fan of rich, savory flavors and crave a side dish that’s both comforting and irresistibly delicious, this French Onion Rice recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine all the goodness of classic French Onion soup—sweet caramelized onions, buttery rice, and melty cheese—baked into one easy, crowd-pleasing meal. It’s perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you need a warm and hearty side. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This

Bold, savory flavor reminiscent of classic French onion soup.
Easy to make in one dish with simple pantry ingredients.
Perfect side for steak, roast chicken, or as a main vegetarian entrée.
Full of cheesy, caramelized onion goodness.
Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

1 cup long grain white rice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed French onion soup
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring often, for 12-15 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Liquids & Rice

Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat in the onion mixture. Pour in beef broth, condensed French onion soup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Bake the Rice

Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or foil. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Broil

Remove the cover, sprinkle the Gruyère cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven. Broil for 2-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Let the rice stand for 5 minutes. Top with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot!

Notes

Use a mandolin for evenly sliced onions to ensure even caramelization.
For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the liquids.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply swap the beef broth for vegetable broth.

Variations

Mushroom French Onion Rice: Stir in 1 cup sautéed sliced mushrooms before baking.
Cheesy French Onion Rice: Mix in 1/2 cup parmesan along with the Gruyère for extra cheesiness.
Herb French Onion Rice: Add 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or tarragon.

Required Equipment

Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
Mandolin or sharp knife (for slicing onions)
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover French Onion Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or covered in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Not recommended for freezing, as the rice tends to become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs perfectly with grilled steak, roast chicken or pork chops.
Serve alongside a crisp green salad and crusty French bread for a complete meal.
Try as a stuffing for bell peppers or baked tomatoes!

Pro Tips

Don’t rush caramelizing the onions—low and slow cooking brings out the best flavor.
Bake covered for the right moisture balance, then broil cheese for a golden crust.
Use high-quality beef broth and cheese for maximum savory depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but increase the baking time to 50-55 minutes and add up to 1/2 cup extra broth.

Can I make this French Onion Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble up to the cheese step, refrigerate, and finish baking with cheese before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

French Onion Rice can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free French onion soup and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

French Onion Rice

Why You’ll Love This

Ingredients