Description
French Onion Butter Rice is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the rich, caramelized sweetness of slow-cooked onions with tender Arborio rice, butter, and Parmesan cheese. This comforting side dish is perfect for elevating any meal with its luscious texture and savory depth.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
Dairy and Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt and cook slowly for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply golden and caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned to enhance the flavor base.
- Toast the Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss the rice in the butter and onions to coat it evenly, allowing it to lightly toast for 1-2 minutes to develop a nutty flavor.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and the mixture reaches a creamy consistency.
- Finish with Herbs and Cheese: Stir in the fresh chopped thyme and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to combine all the flavors evenly throughout the rice.
- Serve: Serve the French Onion Butter Rice immediately, garnished with extra fresh thyme or Parmesan if desired for an appetizing presentation and added flavor.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For a vegetarian variation, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Caramelizing onions requires patience but is key to developing the dish’s deep flavor.
- Do not rush stirring to prevent the rice from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Arborio rice is preferred for its creamy texture when cooked, but short-grain white rice can be an alternative.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of broth or water.
