Name: French Onion Rice Bake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: PT-489070H47M30S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked); 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed French onion soup; 1 (10.5 oz) can beef consommé; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced; 1/2 cup caramelized onions (optional, for extra flavor); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love French Onion Rice Bake Recipe

This recipe is loved for its simplicity and irresistible flavor. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you can create a dish that tastes gourmet without the fuss. The combination of buttery onions, beef broth, and melted cheese gives every bite a deep, rich flavor reminiscent of your favorite French onion soup. It’s also an excellent make-ahead or potluck option that pairs beautifully with almost any main course.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Long-grain white rice
Condensed French onion soup
Condensed beef consommé or beef broth
Butter
Shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Crispy fried onions (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
In the baking dish, combine uncooked rice, condensed French onion soup, and beef consommé or broth. Stir until evenly mixed.
Slice butter into thin pats and place them evenly over the top of the rice mixture.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, then remove the foil and stir the rice to ensure even cooking.
Continue baking uncovered for another 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with crispy fried onions and fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 65 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Try Gruyère or provolone for a more traditional French onion flavor.
Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, beef, or sausage to make it a full meal.
Vegetarian Version: Replace beef consommé with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Crispy Topping: Add breadcrumbs or extra fried onions for more crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual servings until warm. To freeze, cool completely, wrap tightly, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the baking time by about 20 minutes and add extra broth if needed.

2. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What type of cheese works best?

Swiss, mozzarella, Gruyère, or provolone all melt beautifully and enhance the onion flavor.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and skip the cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

5. Why is my rice still crunchy?

If your rice isn’t fully cooked, cover the dish again, add a splash of broth, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.

6. Can I use instant rice?

Instant rice can work, but reduce the liquid slightly and baking time to avoid overcooking.

7. What’s the best way to get a golden cheesy top?

Bake uncovered for the last few minutes, or broil briefly to melt and brown the cheese.

8. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for about 3–4 hours or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

9. What can I serve with French Onion Rice Bake?

It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, steak, pork chops, or grilled vegetables.

10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch dish and extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes.

Conclusion

French Onion Rice Bake is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and bursting with caramelized onion flavor. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s an ideal side dish or hearty casserole for weeknights, holidays, or any time you want something warm and satisfying. Each bite brings the essence of classic French onion soup, transformed into a comforting, crowd-pleasing bake.