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French Onion Rice Recipe

4.7 from 147 reviews

This French Onion Rice recipe combines the rich, caramelized flavors of onions with a savory blend of beef consommé and classic French onion soup, baked to perfection. This comforting one-dish meal offers tender rice infused with deep onion sweetness and thyme, making it a delicious side or main dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can beef consommé
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can French onion soup
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Caramelized Onions

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

  1. Caramelize Onions: Warm the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sugar, then cook, stirring frequently, until the onions become very soft and caramelized, which takes about 25-30 minutes. This process brings out the natural sweetness and rich flavor in the onions.
  2. Prepare Rice Mixture: While the onions are cooking, combine the long-grain white rice, beef consommé, French onion soup, water, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Stir the ingredients together to blend evenly.
  3. Add Onions to Rice: Once the onions are caramelized, spread them evenly over the top of the rice mixture in the baking dish, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor infusion.
  4. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake in a preheated oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes to start cooking and absorbing the liquids.
  5. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil carefully and stir the rice to mix the caramelized onions through. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, resulting in a flavorful, moist texture.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color and extra flavor.

Notes

  • For deeper onion flavor, make sure to caramelize the onions slowly over medium heat without rushing.
  • Use a good quality beef consommé and French onion soup for best taste.
  • The resting time helps the rice absorb remaining moisture and improves texture.
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley make a nice garnish but are optional.
  • Can be served as a side dish with steak or roasted chicken, or as a vegetarian meal by substituting vegetable broth and soup.

Keywords: French Onion Rice, caramelized onions, baked rice, beef consommé, comforting rice dish, savory rice side, French-inspired recipes