Stick of Butter Rice – Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a rich, savory, and incredibly easy side dish that practically cooks itself, this Stick of Butter Rice recipe is a must-try. Made with only four pantry-friendly ingredients, this baked rice dish transforms simple staples into a flavorful, golden, and buttery comfort food. Whether you’re serving it alongside chicken, beef, or pork, this recipe delivers depth and heartiness with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Stick of Butter Rice Recipe

This recipe stands out because it’s the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. With condensed French onion soup, beef broth, and a full stick of butter, each grain of rice soaks up a rich umami essence that makes it taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s family-friendly, budget-conscious, and ideal for busy weeknights or special holiday spreads.

Plus, this dish is “dump and bake”—no stovetop, no fuss, and no fancy techniques needed. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!

Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen

• Long Grain White Rice: The star of the show, providing the perfect fluffy texture that holds flavor beautifully. Avoid instant rice for best results.
• Beef Broth: Adds deep, meaty flavor and enhances the savory tones. Low-sodium options work well for a lighter version.
• Condensed French Onion Soup: Delivers that signature caramelized onion flavor, giving the dish its iconic taste.
• Unsalted Butter: A full stick infuses the rice with richness and helps achieve that beautiful baked finish.

Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

If you’re missing something or want to tailor the Stick of Butter Rice to your needs, here are a few ideas:

• Broth Swap: Replace beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth for a milder flavor.
• Soup Alternative: Use beef consommé for a less onion-forward version.
• Butter Options: Substitute with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Rice Variations: Brown rice can be used but will need additional liquid and longer cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Stick of Butter Rice

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the dish, mix 1 cup long grain white rice, 1 can beef broth, and 1 can condensed French onion soup. Stir gently to combine.
3. Add Butter: Slice ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter into thin pieces and arrange evenly over the rice mixture.
4. Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes until the rice is tender, golden, and slightly crisp at the edges.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately while hot.

Expert Tips for Success

• Don’t use instant rice. It will turn mushy and lose texture.
• Use good-quality soup. The French onion soup defines the dish, so choose one with a rich, savory taste.
• Mind the salt. Since both the broth and soup can be salty, unsalted butter helps balance the flavors.
• Add protein. Transform it into a one-pan meal by adding cooked chicken, beef, or sausage before baking.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

Serving Ideas and Delicious Variations

Pair Stick of Butter Rice with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked pork chops for an easy yet comforting dinner. It also complements Southern favorites like meatloaf or smothered pork steaks beautifully.

Flavor Variations

• Cheesy Butter Rice: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan before the final bake for extra creaminess.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in peas, mushrooms, or diced carrots for added color and texture.
• Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
• Casserole Upgrade: Add chopped rotisserie chicken and bake with a layer of cheese for a full meal.

Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)

Approx. 403 calories | 40g carbs | 5g protein | 24g fat | 635mg sodium | 1g fiber | 2g sugar
(Values are estimates and may vary by brand and portion size.)

Why This Recipe Works Every Time

The Stick of Butter Rice succeeds because it builds layers of flavor with minimal ingredients. The slow oven bake ensures the rice cooks evenly while absorbing all the buttery broth, resulting in a dish that’s both creamy and fluffy. It’s a nostalgic, no-fail recipe that brings comfort to any table.

Conclusion

The Stick of Butter Rice recipe is a timeless, comforting dish that proves great flavor doesn’t require complicated ingredients. With its buttery aroma, savory French onion depth, and tender baked texture, it’s a side that elevates any meal effortlessly. This dish brings together simplicity, indulgence, and versatility — making it just as suitable for weeknight dinners as for special occasions. Every bite captures the warmth of home-cooked comfort food, leaving you and your family wanting seconds every time.

Whether you’re pairing it with juicy roasted chicken, savory meatloaf, or grilled vegetables, this Stick of Butter Rice delivers satisfaction that never goes out of style. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the perfect time to bring this buttery, oven-baked classic to your table.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stick of Butter Rice

More Relevant Recipes

• One Pot Chicken and Rice: This cozy, flavorful meal brings together tender chicken and perfectly seasoned rice in one pan. It shares the same buttery, savory comfort as Stick of Butter Rice, but adds a protein boost for a hearty family dinner.
• Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage: Loaded with creamy cheese and smoky sausage, this baked comfort dish has that same rich, savory flavor profile. It’s perfect for those who love the indulgent taste of butter and slow-baked goodness.
• French Onion Meatloaf: Infused with caramelized onion flavor similar to Stick of Butter Rice, this meatloaf offers a delicious, homestyle twist on classic comfort food. Serve it alongside buttery rice for the ultimate pairing.

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