This creamy French Onion Butter Rice is comforting and rich, combining buttery rice with the sweet flavor of caramelized onions. It’s a dish that warms your heart!
You can easily pair this with grilled chicken or veggies for a cozy meal. I love how it makes the kitchen smell delicious while cooking—it’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain white rice like Basmati or Jasmine is recommended for its fluffy texture. If you want a healthier option, try brown rice—just adjust cooking times since it takes longer to cook.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for this dish because they caramelize very well. If you’re in a pinch, sweet onions like Vidalia can work too! Just remember, the more you cook them, the sweeter they’ll get.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a nice depth of flavor. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works great and can keep the dish light. Homemade broth adds an extra layer of flavor if you have the time!
Heavy Cream: This is where the creaminess comes from! If you want to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely flavor. If you’re not a fan, other cheeses like Gruyère or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan option can work well.
How Do You Get the Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions can take some time, but it’s worth it for the flavor they bring. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil with 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Once hot, add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. This helps draw out moisture.
- Cook slowly, stirring occasionally for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- If they start to brown too much, lower the heat and be patient. The slow cooking creates that wonderful sweetness!
- When done, add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking for an extra flavor boost!
How to Make Creamy French Onion Butter Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., Basmati or Jasmine)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy French Onion Butter Rice comes together in about 40-45 minutes. Expect about 25 minutes for caramelizing the onions, followed by 15 minutes for cooking the rice. Then, just a few extra minutes to combine everything and let the flavors meld! Perfect for a cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelizing the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Sauté slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and caramelized, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to take your time—this step builds a rich flavor!
2. Adding the Garlic:
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 more minute until fragrant, stirring well to combine.
3. Preparing the Broth:
While the onions are cooking, bring the chicken broth to a gentle simmer in a separate saucepan. This will be used for cooking the rice.
4. Cooking the Rice:
In a medium pot, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the uncooked rice and stir well to coat the grains with the butter for about 1-2 minutes. This adds flavor and helps the rice cook evenly.
5. Combining Ingredients:
Now, pour the simmering chicken broth into the pot with the rice and add the thyme. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, which should take about 15-18 minutes.
6. Adding Creaminess:
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the caramelized onion mixture, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure everything is well combined.
7. Final Touch:
Mix everything together and cook over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to become extra creamy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm as a delightful side dish or enjoy it as a comforting vegetarian main! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and is healthier, but it takes longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes, and you may need to add a bit more broth for moisture.
How Can I Make this Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make the recipe dairy-free, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute. You can also omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice, and warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to boost the nutrition and color of the dish. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for quick incorporation!
