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Easy French Onion Butter Rice Casserole

A close-up serving of creamy French onion butter rice topped with melted cheese and crispy caramelized onions.

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This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with fluffy rice, baked with plenty of butter until tender. It is a simple, comforting side dish perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed French onion soup
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced onion and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized and soft.
  3. In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, caramelized onions, remaining 4 tablespoons of butter (cut into small pieces), beef broth, dried thyme, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
  4. Pour the condensed French onion soup evenly over the rice mixture. Do not stir after adding the soup.
  5. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  6. Remove the foil. If using cheese, sprinkle the Gruyère evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes before fluffing gently with a fork and serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use homemade caramelized onions or a high-quality store-bought version.
  • This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled steak.
  • If you do not have beef broth, you can substitute it with chicken broth, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

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