Description

French Onion Butter Rice is a creamy, flavorful rice dish inspired by the rich, caramelized flavor of classic French onion soup. This recipe transforms Arborio rice into a buttery, cheesy side that’s perfect to serve alongside your favorite meals, featuring tender caramelized onions, fresh thyme, and Parmesan cheese for a comforting and elegant dish.

Ingredients

Rice and Broth

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Butter and Aromatics

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Cheese

2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Caramelize the onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions with a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture and enhance sweetness. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.
Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously, until fragrant but not browned.
Toast the rice: Stir in the Arborio rice and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix well to coat all the rice grains evenly with butter and onions, helping to develop flavor and prepare the rice for cooking.
Add the broth and simmer: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the rice becomes tender and creamy as it absorbs the broth.
Finish with herbs and cheese: Stir in the chopped fresh thyme and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all flavors.
Serve: Serve immediately while warm, optionally garnished with additional fresh thyme or Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Notes

Use Arborio rice for the best creamy texture similar to risotto.
Caramelizing the onions slowly is key to developing rich flavor.
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, but Parmesan cheese is not vegan.
Stir frequently during simmering to avoid rice sticking to the pan.
This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a comforting side for any weeknight dinner.