Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time. If using brown rice, increase the broth by 1/4 cup and expect to add 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time. Check for tenderness before uncovering.

Why did my rice come out too dry or undercooked?

This usually happens if your oven runs hot or if the foil wasn't sealed tightly during the first baking phase. Next time, ensure your foil is tightly sealed and check the rice 5 minutes before the end of the first baking phase. If needed, add a splash more broth.

Can I make this in a rice cooker or Instant Pot?

This recipe specifically creates its magic in the oven where the rice can develop those delicious crispy edges. While you could adapt it for other cooking methods, you won't get quite the same texture contrast that makes this dish special.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth and use a vegetarian French onion soup (or make your own with caramelized onions and vegetable stock). The result will still be delicious with a slightly different flavor profile.

Stick of Butter Rice Recipe

This incredibly flavorful Stick of Butter Rice is the ultimate comfort food that transforms basic pantry staples into a rich, savory side dish with minimal effort. The long grain rice absorbs the delicious flavors of beef broth and French onion soup, while the butter creates a golden, slightly crispy top that you’ll be fighting over at the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious that practically cooks itself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Easy: Just 4 simple ingredients, 2 minutes of prep, and your oven does all the work.
Incredible Flavor: The combination of French onion soup and beef broth creates a depth of flavor that makes people think you spent hours in the kitchen.
No Stirring Required: Unlike stovetop rice that needs monitoring, this oven-baked method gives you perfect results every time without hovering over the pot.
Budget-Friendly: Uses basic pantry ingredients that transform into something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Long Grain White Rice: The foundation of the dish. Long grain gives you that perfect fluffy texture without getting mushy.
Beef Broth: Adds a rich, savory depth that makes this rice stand out from basic steamed rice. The liquid also helps cook the rice perfectly.
Condensed French Onion Soup: The secret ingredient that adds incredible flavor – sweet caramelized onion notes and savory complexity that makes this rice irresistible.
Unsalted Butter: Creates a gorgeous golden crust and adds richness that takes this dish from good to unforgettable. Thinly sliced butter distributes more evenly during baking.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Make It Your Own

Herb-Infused: Add a teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a flavor boost.
Garlic Lover’s Version: Mix in 2-3 cloves of minced garlic before baking for extra aromatic flavor.
Parmesan Finish: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Veggie Boost: Add 1/2 cup of frozen peas, diced carrots, or corn during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Mushroom Edition: Use mushroom broth instead of beef broth for an earthier flavor profile.

How to Make Stick of Butter Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Take an 8×8-inch baking dish and give it a good spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Liquid Ingredients

Pour the beef broth and condensed French onion soup into your baking dish. Add the cup of long grain white rice and stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Take your stick of butter and slice it thinly. Arrange the butter slices evenly across the top of the rice mixture. They’ll melt and create magic during baking.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. The foil traps the steam, which is crucial for cooking the rice properly. Place in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Uncover and Finish Baking

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes. This uncovered baking allows excess moisture to evaporate and creates that irresistible golden top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, it’s ready to serve. Fluff it slightly with a fork and bring it straight to the table.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Skip the First Covered Bake: This step is crucial for properly cooking the rice. The covered period allows the rice to steam and soften.
Let It Brown: The final uncovered baking creates those delicious crispy edges. Don’t rush this step!
Slice the Butter Thin: Thinner slices of butter distribute more evenly as they melt, creating better flavor throughout.
Low Sodium Options: If you’re watching salt intake, both the beef broth and onion soup come in low-sodium varieties. The dish will still be delicious!
Check for Doneness: If your rice isn’t quite tender after the full baking time, add a splash more broth, cover again, and bake for 5-10 more minutes.

How to Serve

This Stick of Butter Rice works beautifully as a side dish for almost any protein. Here are some perfect pairings:

Main Course Pairings

Roasted chicken or simple grilled chicken breasts
Meatloaf (the rice complements the savory flavors perfectly)
Grilled or baked pork chops
Steak or beef tips
Roasted salmon or other hearty fish

Complete the Meal With

A simple green vegetable like roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness
Crusty bread for sopping up any remaining buttery goodness

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor actually improves as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep.

Freezing

This rice freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth (about 1 tablespoon per cup of rice), cover, and microwave until hot throughout, stirring halfway through. You can also reheat in a covered skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a touch of liquid to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time. If using brown rice, increase the broth by 1/4 cup and expect to add 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time. Check for tenderness before uncovering.
Why did my rice come out too dry or undercooked?

This usually happens if your oven runs hot or if the foil wasn’t sealed tightly during the first baking phase. Next time, ensure your foil is tightly sealed and check the rice 5 minutes before the end of the first baking phase. If needed, add a splash more broth.
Can I make this in a rice cooker or Instant Pot?

This recipe specifically creates its magic in the oven where the rice can develop those delicious crispy edges. While you could adapt it for other cooking methods, you won’t get quite the same texture contrast that makes this dish special.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth and use a vegetarian French onion soup (or make your own with caramelized onions and vegetable stock). The result will still be delicious with a slightly different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Stick of Butter Rice is one of those magical recipes that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. I find myself making it again and again because it’s so effortless yet always gets rave reviews. The combination of that savory broth with the rich butter creates a side dish that often steals the spotlight from the main course! Give it a try next time you need a simple yet impressive side dish – I bet it becomes a regular in your recipe rotation too.